School Safety & Security Best Practices
With Their Associated Indicators
2002-2003 School Safety and Security Self-Assessment Form
Efficiency and Effectiveness
1.
?
The district has established and implemented accountability mechanisms to ensure the performance, efficiency, and
effectiveness of the safety and security program.
Indicators of Meeting the Best Practice
Yes
No
In
Progress
N/A
a.
?
The district has clearly stated goals and outcome-based, measurable, objectives for the
program that reflect the intent (purpose) of the program and address the major aspects of the
program’s purpose and expenditures.
b.
?
The district uses appropriate performance and cost-efficiency measures and interpretive
benchmarks to evaluate the school safety and security program and uses these in
management decision making.
1, 2
c.
?
The district regularly conducts an assessment of performance and cost of the safety program
and analyzes the potential cost savings of alternatives, such as outside contracting and
privatization.
3
Related Statutes and Rules
In
Does the District Meet the Best Practice? (Please provide explanation)
Yes
No
Progress
N/A
Strategies and Actions to Be Taken
Fiscal Impact and Timeline
1
This means that in budgeting and shifting resources the district considers several factors including goals, objectives, critical safety needs, and past performance of
safety initiatives.
2
Performance measures should include appropriate comparisons with peer districts in areas such as safety and discipline incidents, etc.
3
This assessment would include examining whether the overall safety program and individual safety initiatives (such as DARE or Crime Watch) are achieving the
outcomes they are expected to achieve.
Page 1 of 30
School Safety & Security Best Practices
With Their Associated Indicators
2002-2003 School Safety and Security Self-Assessment Form
Efficiency and Effectiveness
2.
?
The district ensures the accuracy of its safety and security related data and reports accurate data to the Department of
Education.
Indicators of Meeting the Best Practice
Yes
No
In
Progress
N/A
a.
?
The district and its schools have a process in place to collect, revise, and update the appropriate
data for the School Environmental Safety Incident Report.
4
b.
?
The district and its schools have a process in place to collect, revise, update and ensure the
accuracy of the discipline data.
c.
?
The district has established and implemented strategies to ensure the reliability of SESIR,
discipline, and other safety and security program data.
Related Statutes and Rules
ss. 1006.09(8), 1006.13(3)
F.S.
In
Does the District Meet the Best Practice? (Please provide explanation)
Yes
No
Progress
N/A
Strategies and Actions to Be Taken
Fiscal Impact and Timeline
4
The district uses the state approved reporting form if available. If the state form is not available, the district develops its own form based on some standardized criteria
such as the Uniform Crime Reports.
Page 2 of 30
School Safety & Security Best Practices
With Their Associated Indicators
2002-2003 School Safety and Security Self-Assessment Form
Efficiency and Effectiveness
3.
?
The district regularly reviews the organizational structure and staffing levels of the safety and security program and
minimizes administrative layers and processes.
Indicators of Meeting the Best Practice
Yes
No
In
Progress
N/A
a.
?
The district has a process in place to determine the staffing levels necessary to ensure that staff
can respond to safety crises.
b.
?
On at least an annual basis, the district uses applicable comparisons and/or benchmarks and
reviews the program’s organizational structure and staffing levels to minimize administrative
layers and processes.
c.
?
The program structure includes reasonable lines of authority and spans of control given the
responsibilities of each organizational unit.
d.
In conducting its staffing review, the district obtains broad stakeholder input.
e.
?
The district reports organizational structure and administrative staffing review findings in writing
and distributes these findings to school board members.
Related Statutes and Rules
In
Does the District Meet the Best Practice? (Please provide explanation)
Yes
No
Progress
N/A
Strategies and Actions to Be Taken
Fiscal Impact and Timeline
Page 3 of 30
School Safety & Security Best Practices
With Their Associated Indicators
2002-2003 School Safety and Security Self-Assessment Form
Safety Planning
4.
?
The district has implemented a school safety plan that includes districtwide emergency and safety procedures and
identifies those responsible for them.
Indicators of Meeting the Best Practice
Yes
No
In
Progress
N/A
a.
?
The district has written school improvement plan(s) that includes districtwide school safety goals
and procedures.
b.
?
The district has implemented a comprehensive school safety plan that establishes emergency and
safety procedures for school and district employees and students to follow. At a minimum, the
plan addresses
�
?
the evaluation of the principal’s performance regarding school safety, monitoring and
evaluating the implementation of the plan at the school level, and coordinating with local law
enforcement and the Department of Juvenile Justice;
5
�
?
the roles and responsibilities of the school principal and other administrators, teachers, and
other school personnel for restoring, if necessary, and maintaining a safe, secure, and orderly
school environment;
�
?
the roles and responsibilities of the transportation staff for restoring, if necessary, and
maintaining a safe, secure, and orderly bus environment; the goals and objectives of the
school resource officers, if any;
�
?
the mechanisms for identifying and serving the needs of students most at risk for engaging in
disruptive and disorderly behavior;
�
arrangements to work with local emergency officials;
6
�
safety issues and policies at school sponsored events;
7 and
�
?
processes by which the district will instruct parents and the local community as to how to
respond to an emergency situation.
8
Related Statutes and Rules
ss. 1001.42(16)a, 1006.10,
F.S.
In
Does the District Meet the Best Practice? (Please provide explanation)
Yes
No
Progress
N/A
Strategies and Actions to Be Taken
Fiscal Impact and Timeline
5
Principals may be evaluated on criteria such as the school climate report and school incident reports.
6
Including, but not limited to, law enforcement, fire department, emergency management, hospital, mental health, health and social agency, court officials and the
media.
7
Such as when students are off campus at official school events.
8
Parents and the community should be provided this information prior to an emergency through such mechanisms as newsletters and the district’s website.
Page 4 of 30
School Safety & Security Best Practices
With Their Associated Indicators
2002-2003 School Safety and Security Self-Assessment Form
Safety Planning
5.
The district develops and maintains its school safety plan and emergency response procedures with stakeholder input.
Indicators of Meeting the Best Practice
Yes
No
In
Progress
N/A
a.
?
A broad cross-section of stakeholders including parents, community representatives, local
emergency agencies, teachers, staff and students were involved in developing the comprehensive
school safety plan and emergency procedures.
b.
?
The comprehensive school safety plan and emergency procedures have been shared with
appropriate emergency response agencies.
9
c.
?
The comprehensive school safety plan and emergency procedures have distributed to designated
administrators and staff.
10
d.
?
The comprehensive school safety plan and emergency procedures are reviewed and revised
annually or more often if events warrant.
Related Statutes and Rules
s. 119.071,
F.S.
In
Does the District Meet the Best Practice? (Please provide explanation)
Yes
No
Progress
N/A
Strategies and Actions to Be Taken
Fiscal Impact and Timeline
9
Emergency response agencies may include the fire department, police department, hospitals, social service, and health agencies.
10
In accordance with s. 119.071
F.S.
, the district should take steps to ensure the confidentiality of security related information. The district should identify those
administrators and staff directly responsible for emergency response procedures, such as principals and school resource officers, and ensure that they have received
copies of the safety plans. Districts may chose to disclose descriptive information regarding the safety and security plans to teachers, advisory councils, and the
public. However, the district must still protect sensitive security information so as not to compromise the district’s safety efforts.
Page 5 of 30
School Safety & Security Best Practices
With Their Associated Indicators
2002-2003 School Safety and Security Self-Assessment Form
Safety Planning
6.
The district conducts an annual review of all relevant health and safety issues for each educational facility.
11
In
Progress
N/A
Indicators of Meeting the Best Practice
Yes
No
a.
?
The district ensures that each educational facility conducts an assessment of the safety
hazards faced at that facility.
12
b.
?
A certified fire safety inspector conducts an annual fire safety review of all education and
ancillary plants to ensure compliance with Florida law.
c.
?
An annual casualty safety review of all education and ancillary plants is conducted to
ensure compliance with Florida law and all deficiencies are corrected within a reasonable
period.
13
d.
?
An annual review is conducted to determine whether educational facilities comply with
the Florida Building Code.
e.
?
Middle and secondary students participate in scheduled administrations of standardized
surveys of risk behaviors and situations such as the Communities That Care, the Florida
Youth Tobacco Survey, and the Youth Risk Behavior Survey and the results are used in
assessing prevention needs.
Related Statutes and Rules
€
ss. 1006.07(6), 1013.12(1)(b), 1013.12(2)(b), 1013.12(2)(c),
F.S.
€
In
Does the District Meet the Best Practice? (Please provide explanation)
Yes
No
Progress
N/A
Strategies and Actions to Be Taken
Fiscal Impact and Timeline
11
Conducting this self-assessment does not meet the requirements of this practice.
12
The safety assessment should include a review of the unique safety considerations at a given school site. In reviewing potential hazards, the district should consider
those listed in Best Practice 8 along with any others appropriate to that school.
13 Note that life-threatening deficiencies must be correctly immediately or the facility withdrawn from use.
Page 6 of 30
School Safety & Security Best Practices
With Their Associated Indicators
2002-2003 School Safety and Security Self-Assessment Form
Safety Planning
7.
The district has developed emergency response procedures.
In
Progress
N/A
Indicators of Meeting the Best Practice
Yes
No
a.
?
The district has developed a districtwide plan for potential attacks against school sites or students
and incorporates the appropriate school responses in the emergency procedures checklist.
b.
?
The district has procedures for contacting all schools simultaneously in the event of a district-
wide emergency.
c.
?
The district has an emergency crisis team available to each school that provides counseling and
other support to aid in dealing with people’s reactions, making the adjustment after the
emergency, and re-entering the school environment.
d.
?
The district has developed a media response plan and distributed it to each educational facility
and each support service administrator. At a minimum, the plan addresses
�
communicating necessary information to the media and parents;
14
�
?
identifying established separate staging areas (e.g., specified locations) for media and
parents; and
�
providing guidelines on how to respond to media questions and interviews.
Related Statutes and Rules
In
Does the District Meet the Best Practice? (Please provide explanation)
Yes
No
Progress
N/A
Strategies and Actions to Be Taken
Fiscal Impact and Timeline
14 Necessary information should include where parents should go or whom they should contact to find out about their children and where to get further information.
Page 7 of 30
School Safety & Security Best Practices
With Their Associated Indicators
2002-2003 School Safety and Security Self-Assessment Form
Safety Planning
8.
The district has provided each school with an emergency checklist.
In
Progress
N/A
Indicators of Meeting the Best Practice
Yes
No
a.
?
A checklist that explains step-by-step emergency procedures is readily available in every
classroom. The emergency situations include, at a minimum,
15
�
weapons-use and hostage situations;
�
hazardous materials or toxic chemical spills;
�
weather emergencies including hurricanes, tornadoes, and severe storms; and
�
exposure as a result of a manmade emergency.
b.
?
The emergency checklist includes emergency contact numbers and provisions for backup
communication with faculty, support service administrators, and emergency agencies.
c.
?
The emergency checklist includes evacuation procedures developed with school transportation
personnel, the fire marshal, law enforcement agencies, and other local agencies as appropriate.
16
Related Statutes and Rules
s. 1006.07(4),
F.S.
In
Does the District Meet the Best Practice? (Please provide explanation)
Yes
No
Progress
N/A
Strategies and Actions to Be Taken
Fiscal Impact and Timeline
15
Schools cannot have lists for every possible emergency. However, to be comprehensive, the plan should address other issues such as suicide threats/acts; bomb
threats; out-of-control person/student; fighting; sexual assault; health emergency, serious injury, homicide of student; child abuse; trespassing; exposure to blood-
borne pathogens; armed robbery; removal/attempted removal of a student; and utility emergency.
16 In the event of an evacuation, schools should have separate areas for student assembly, parent request/release, and media operations.
Page 8 of 30
School Safety & Security Best Practices
With Their Associated Indicators
2002-2003 School Safety and Security Self-Assessment Form
Safety Planning
9.
The district and each school regularly practice emergency responses based on potential safety concerns at each site.
Indicators of Meeting the Best Practice
Yes
No
In
Progress
N/A
a.
?
The district school board has developed and implemented procedures for emergency drills in
accordance with state law.
b.
?
The district uses its annual self-assessment to identify the potential hazards for each educational
facility and has developed and implemented procedures for practicing responses to identified
hazards.
17
c.
?
The district has implemented procedures for verifying the required and planned emergency drills
have been conducted.
Related Statutes and Rules
s. 1006.7(4)(a),
F.S.
In
Does the District Meet the Best Practice? (Please provide explanation)
Yes
No
Progress
N/A
Strategies and Actions to Be Taken
Fiscal Impact and Timeline
17
This will include fire drills, but should also include responses to any other hazards identified in Best Practice 6.
Page 9 of 30
School Safety & Security Best Practices
With Their Associated Indicators
2002-2003 School Safety and Security Self-Assessment Form
Safety Planning
10. The district provides emergency response agencies with floor plans and blueprints as appropriate.
In
Progress
N/A
Indicators of Meeting the Best Practice
Yes
No
a.
?
The district provides floor plans of each educational facility to local law enforcement agencies
and fire departments.
b.
?
The district has blueprints of each educational facility readily available for review during an
emergency.
Related Statutes and Rules
ss. 1013.01, 1013.13,
F.S.
In
Does the District Meet the Best Practice? (Please provide explanation)
Yes
No
Progress
N/A
Strategies and Actions to Be Taken
Fiscal Impact and Timeline
Page 10 of 30
School Safety & Security Best Practices
With Their Associated Indicators
2002-2003 School Safety and Security Self-Assessment Form
Safety Planning
11.
?
The district’s Master Plan for In-Service Training identifies district and school personnel training needs and provides
for appropriate level of safety training for all personnel.
Indicators of Meeting the Best Practice
Yes
No
In
Progress
N/A
a.
?
The district has a process in place and has identified the training required for all types of school
staff as well as the staff that require specialized safety training and incorporates those needs in its
Master Plan for In-Service Training.
18, 19
b.
?
The district’s required training in school-wide discipline, classroom management, conflict
resolution, and other safety training components are included in the district’s Master Plan for In-
service Training.
c.
?
The district reviews and uses the relevant training opportunities provided by the Department of
Education and other appropriate organizations.
d.
?
School principals can demonstrate that staff has received training based on the needs identified in
the Master Plan for In-Service Training, the school’s safety assessment, and the staff members’
roles and responsibilities.
20
e.
The district supplies trained personnel with the appropriate safety equipment.
21
f.
?
Teachers at each grade level are provided in-service training to teach students positive social
skills and violence prevention, conflict resolution, and communication/decision making skills.
Related Statutes and Rules
ss. 1012.98 (4)(b)4, 1012.98(4)(b)5,
F.S.
In
Does the District Meet the Best Practice? (Please provide explanation)
Yes
No
Progress
N/A
Strategies and Actions to Be Taken
Fiscal Impact and Timeline
18
Training should include both instructional and non-instructional staff as well as substitute teachers and bus drivers. Districts may want to establish the minimum
number working days a substitute must have before being provided with training.
19
Specialized training may include suicide prevention and responses for specific emergency situations as outlined in the emergency checklist in best practice 8.
20 Depending on their duties, staff training can include emergency planning and intervention, class management, conflict resolution, CPR and first aid, the use of life-
saving equipment, sexual harassment and abuse, and the early warning signs of violence to the personnel identified in 11a.
21 This includes equipment such as first aid kits, fire extinguishers, or portable defibrillators.
Page 11 of 30
School Safety & Security Best Practices
With Their Associated Indicators
2002-2003 School Safety and Security Self-Assessment Form
Discipline Policies and Code of Student Conduct
12. The district and each school have a code of student conduct based on stakeholder input and revised on an annual basis.
Indicators of Meeting the Best Practice
Yes
No
In
Progress
N/A
a.
?
The school district is in compliance with relevant laws and regulations regarding discipline
policies including the code of student conduct.
22
b.
?
The district school board and school administrators annually review discipline policies and revise
those policies with input from teachers, staff, parents, and students.
c.
The student code of conduct is clearly written and avoids the use of technical terminology.
d.
?
Parents are an integral part of the student discipline procedures and actions. They are made aware
of expectations of students and are informed of changes in a timely manner.
e.
?
Each year the discipline policies are clearly and thoroughly communicated to students, parents,
and other stakeholders.
23
Related Statutes and Rules
ss. 1006.07(2), 1006.07(2)(c),
F.S.
In
Does the District Meet the Best Practice? (Please provide explanation)
Yes
No
Progress
N/A
Strategies and Actions to Be Taken
Fiscal Impact and Timeline
22
Laws and regulations such as respect for authority, respect for school property, respect for others, daily attendance, use of obscenities, harming or demeaning others.
23 This can be done by sending student handbooks to parents and posting to the school and district websites.
Page 12 of 30
School Safety & Security Best Practices
With Their Associated Indicators
2002-2003 School Safety and Security Self-Assessment Form
Discipline Policies and Code of Student Conduct
13. The district’s code of student conduct and other policies provide clear procedures for handling disciplinary actions.
Indicators of Meeting the Best Practice
Yes
No
In
Progress
N/A
a.
?
The district, in cooperation with local law enforcement agencies, promotes and enforces a zero
tolerance policy for crime, substance abuse, and victimization that requires the district to report
all violations subject to Florida law to a local law enforcement agency.
b.
?
Alternatives to suspension and expulsion have been built into the discipline policy and are
appropriately and consistently used.
c.
?
The district has in a process in place to relocate students who are regularly dismissed from their
classroom.
d.
?
Disciplinary policies include statements regarding anti-harassment, anti-bullying, and anti-
violence policies and due process rights in accordance with state and federal laws.
e.
?
Disciplinary policies include procedures regarding interviewing students by law enforcement
agencies and the Department of Children and Family Services.
f.
Disciplinary policies include procedures governing locker searches.
g.
?
The district’s discipline policies are consistent with the state and federal requirements for
students with disabilities.
Related Statutes and Rules
ss. 1006.09(9), 1006.13(3),
F.S.
In
Does the District Meet the Best Practice? (Please provide explanation)
Yes
No
Progress
N/A
Strategies and Actions to Be Taken
Fiscal Impact and Timeline
Page 13 of 30
School Safety & Security Best Practices
With Their Associated Indicators
2002-2003 School Safety and Security Self-Assessment Form
School Climate and Community Outreach
14. The district has a process in place to minimize danger to students from community members, staff, or other students.
Indicators of Meeting the Best Practice
Yes
No
In
Progress
N/A
a.
?
The district requires each student to disclose at registration legally required information regarding
the student’s prior disciplinary history of expulsions, arrest resulting in a charge, and juvenile
justice actions.
b.
?
The district requires all school personnel to report to the principal or the principal’s designee any
suspected unlawful use, possession, or sale by a student of any controlled substance.
c.
?
The district works uses available information to track charges and convictions of students and
employees from within the district as well as other school districts.
24, 25
d.
?
The district has a policy to encourage and facilitate principals, or their designees, regularly
monitoring websites that identify registered sex offenders who reside in the vicinity of their
school community.
26
e.
?
The district school board outlines the standards for use of reasonable force by school personnel
that complies with relevant state laws in order to maintain an orderly environment.
Related Statutes and Rules
€
ss. 1006.07(1)(a), 1006.08(2), 1006.09(8), 1006.11, 1006.13, 1012.799,
F.S.
€
In
Does the District Meet the Best Practice? (Please provide explanation)
Yes
No
Progress
N/A
Strategies and Actions to Be Taken
Fiscal Impact and Timeline
24
Charges and convictions tracked should be limited to felonies, abuse of a minor, and sale or possession of a controlled substance.
25
Agencies that should be consulted for this information include the Department of Juvenile Justice, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, other appropriate law
enforcement agencies, state attorneys, the courts, and the Department of Education.
26
The information regarding sexual offenders, such as photographs, should be shared with bus drivers, teachers, front office staff, custodial staff, and cafeteria staff.
Page 14 of 30
School Safety & Security Best Practices
With Their Associated Indicators
2002-2003 School Safety and Security Self-Assessment Form
School Climate and Community Outreach
15.
?
Each school has a system in place to identify students that exhibit early warning signs of, or pose a threat of future
violent behavior.
Indicators of Meeting the Best Practice
Yes
No
In
Progress
N/A
a.
?
The district teaches instructional and non-instructional staff, and students the early warning signs
associated with students who pose a threat of future violent behavior, how to recognize them, and
what to do once they are suspected.
27, 28
b.
?
The district facilitates and encourages requests for assistance with students who exhibit early
warning signs, or pose a threat of future violent behavior.
29
c.
?
The district provides timely access to a team of specialists trained in evaluating behavioral and
academic concerns and provides school staff training regarding such support.
d.
?
Schools in the district have a Student Assistance Program/Team that provides assistance for
students experiencing learning and/or behavioral difficulties.
e.
?
The district makes available appropriate psychological counseling for students exhibiting early
warning signs, or posing a threat of future violent behavior.
f.
?
The district has procedures in place to maintain legal confidentiality of information regarding
students exhibiting early warning signs, or posing a threat of future violent behavior.
30
g.
?
The district reviews and revises, as needed, the process to identify the warning signs of student
violence.
Related Statutes and Rules
s. 1002.22(3)(d),
F.S.
In
Does the District Meet the Best Practice? (Please provide explanation)
Yes
No
Progress
N/A
Strategies and Actions to Be Taken
Fiscal Impact and Timeline
27
Part of this training should explain that the warning signs are indicators that a student may need help and that it is imperative to avoid jumping to conclusions.
€
28
Districts may not be able to explain ALL of the early warning signs but they should design a program to help parents, students, and staff understand the major signs.
€
29
This could range from guidance on what to do to help with actual intervention.
€
30 This may not be something the district can prove directly, but could be measured by the absence of confidentiality breaches.
€
Page 15 of 30
School Safety & Security Best Practices
With Their Associated Indicators
2002-2003 School Safety and Security Self-Assessment Form
School Climate and Community Outreach
16.
?
The district identifies and implements parent and community outreach strategies to promote safety in the home and
community.
Indicators of Meeting the Best Practice
Yes
No
In
Progress
N/A
a.
?
The district has developed, in accordance with state law, a cooperative agreement with the
Department of Juvenile Justice.
b.
?
The district works proactively with students, parents, law enforcement, the community and the
media to address safety and security issues.
c.
?
The district works with local community agencies and businesses to identify ways to increase
support in keeping schools safe.
31
d.
?
The district provides information to parents regarding the necessary school-entry health
examinations and immunizations for all students.
e.
?
The district has crime watch programs and school safety hotline(s) in place and available in all
schools.
f.
?
The district has procedures in place to inform students, parents, and other community partners
about its crime watch programs and school safety hotline(s).
f.
?
The district provides safety-related information, such as the safety and security self-assessment
results, in an annual report to the public and other stakeholders.
32
Related Statutes and Rules
€
ss. 1003.22(1), 1003.22(4), 1006.13(3), 1006.141,
F.S.
€
In
Does the District Meet the Best Practice? (Please provide explanation)
Yes
No
Progress
N/A
Strategies and Actions to Be Taken
Fiscal Impact and Timeline
31
This is accomplished through activities such as through public-private partnerships.
32 Information must not be sanitized. It should include such information as incidents on crime and misbehavior, trends over time, comparisons to the community, and
steps taken to improve safety.
Page 16 of 30
School Safety & Security Best Practices
With Their Associated Indicators
2002-2003 School Safety and Security Self-Assessment Form
Safety Programs and Curricula
17.
?
The district fosters a positive learning climate and culture by assessing the school climate and implementing relevant
scientifically based curricula and programs at each school.
Indicators of Meeting the Best Practice
Yes
No
In
Progress
N/A
a.
?
School climate surveys include questions relating to discipline, bullying, threats perceived by
students, and other safety or security related issues.
b.
?
Curricula and programs for improving the school culture and climate are incorporated into the
classroom. The curricula and programs should address such issues as
�
pro-social skills;
�
character education;
�
conflict resolution; and
�
peer mediation.
c.
?
Curricula and special programs on violence and drug prevention, health, safety, and security are
available to students, school staff, and parents.
d.
?
The district regularly reviews the school climate at each school and revises, eliminates, or adds
programs accordingly.
Related Statutes and Rules
In
Does the District Meet the Best Practice? (Please provide explanation)
Yes
No
Progress
N/A
Strategies and Actions to Be Taken
Fiscal Impact and Timeline
Page 17 of 30
School Safety & Security Best Practices
With Their Associated Indicators
2002-2003 School Safety and Security Self-Assessment Form
Safety Programs and Curricula
18.
?
The district has an approved Safe and Drug-Free School Plan that has been developed with appropriate stakeholder
input.
Indicators of Meeting the Best Practice
Yes
No
In
Progress
N/A
a.
?
The district has a district Safe and Drug-Free School (SDFS) advisory council or committee that
participates in the development of the SDFS plan.
b.
?
The district has an approved Safe and Drug-Free School (SDFS) plan and regularly reviews and
updates the plan.
c.
?
Coaches and athletes adhere to established policies prohibiting tobacco and drug, including
alcohol, use.
d.
?
The district regularly reviews and revises, as needed, the safe and drug-free programs and
publishes a performance review of the programs supported by safe and drug free schools funds.
33
Related Statutes and Rules
In
Does the District Meet the Best Practice? (Please provide explanation)
Yes
No
Progress
N/A
Strategies and Actions to Be Taken
Fiscal Impact and Timeline
33
As part of this review, the district should have performance-related data for each of these programs.
Page 18 of 30
School Safety & Security Best Practices
With Their Associated Indicators
2002-2003 School Safety and Security Self-Assessment Form
Safety Programs and Curricula
19.
?
Based on the district’s safety assessment process (see Best Practice 6) the district implements scientifically based
violence and drug prevention programs and curricula for each school.
34
In
Progress
N/A
Indicators of Meeting the Best Practice
Yes
No
a.
?
The district reviews and makes available to its schools sources of violence prevention and other
safety-related programs and curricula.
35,36
b.
?
The school board and each school adopt safety and health curricula and programs designed to
reduce violence, increase safety, and reduce the number of violence risk factors.
37, 38
c.
?
The district and schools involve students in the planning and implementation of violence
prevention programs and other student efforts that contribute to school safety.
d.
The district has considered a dress code or school uniform policy.
39
e.
?
Students at each grade level are taught violence prevention, conflict resolution, and
communication/decision making skills.
f.
?
In developing, implementing, and maintaining its safety programs, the district collaborates with
other governmental and private agencies as needed.
40
g.
?
The district regularly reviews the performance of its intervention programs and revises,
eliminates, or adds programs accordingly
Related Statutes and Rules
In
Does the District Meet the Best Practice? (Please provide explanation)
Yes
No
Progress
N/A
Strategies and Actions to Be Taken
Fiscal Impact and Timeline
34
These programs should be designed to improve overall student performance, reduce risk factors and warning signs, prevent bullying or harassment, and improve
student behavior.
35
This includes programs such as “Blueprints” from the Center for the Study and Prevention of Violence, the Safe and Drug Free Schools Resource Center. NOTE:
There are many sites for these kinds of programs, so the district may use something else.
36
Such sources would include the Partnership for School Safety and Security’s electronic clearinghouse and the Department of Education’s Program Inventory.
37
These programs should be designed to ensure the safety of students, teachers, and administrators.
38
These include programs such as closed-campus lunches in high schools, structured playground activities, behavioral monitoring, behavioral counseling, student
empowerment programs, extended day programs and school reorganizations, tutoring, mentors, and Saturday classes.
39 Schools do not have to have a dress code, but they should be able to describe their reasoning if they have not adopted one. Dress code examples include prohibiting
baggy pants, untucked shirts, overcoats and long jackets, and gang colors or symbols.
40
The Department of Juvenile Justice and the Department of Education are examples of such agencies.
Page 19 of 30
School Safety & Security Best Practices
With Their Associated Indicators
2002-2003 School Safety and Security Self-Assessment Form
Safety Programs and Curricula
20.
?
Each school has a system in place to identify, assess and minimize the risk for students indicating a threat of, or
exhibiting suicidal behavior.
In
Progress
N/A
Indicators of Meeting the Best Practice
Yes
No
a.
?
The district teaches instructional and non-instructional staff warning signs associated with
students who pose a risk for suicidal behavior.
b.
?
The district facilitates and encourages requests for assistance with students who pose a risk for
suicidal behavior.
c.
?
The district provides timely access to professional staff trained to evaluate student risk for
suicidal behavior and provides training and consultation for appropriate staff.
d.
?
The district will provide procedures indicating the appropriate management of students
determined to be at risk for suicidal behavior, including supervision, duty to warn and
community-based referrals.
e.
?
The district will provide procedures guiding the support of students re-entering the school
environment following hospitalization, suicide attempt, or those surviving the suicide attempt of a
peer.
Related Statutes and Rules
In
Does the District Meet the Best Practice? (Please provide explanation)
Yes
No
Progress
N/A
Strategies and Actions to Be Taken
Fiscal Impact and Timeline
Page 20 of 30
School Safety & Security Best Practices
With Their Associated Indicators
2002-2003 School Safety and Security Self-Assessment Form
Facilities and Equipment
21.
?
The district designs educational facilities and sites to enhance security and reduce vandalism through the use of “safe
school design” principles.
In
Progress
N/A
Indicators of Meeting the Best Practice
Yes
No
a.
?
The district incorporates Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles
in the maintenance, renovation, and construction of district educational facilities. CPTED
principles include
�
natural access and control of schools and campuses;
�
?
natural surveillance of schools and campuses both from within the facility and from adjacent
streets by removing obstructions or trimming shrubbery;
�
school and campus territorial integrity; securing courtyards, site lighting, building lighting;
�
?
audio and motion detection systems covering ground floor doors, stairwells, offices and areas
where expensive equipment is stored;
�
?
exterior stairs, balconies, ramps, and upper level corridors around the perimeter of buildings
should have open-type handrails or other architectural features to allow surveillance;
�
?
open areas, such as plazas, the building's main entrance, parking lots, and bicycle compounds
should be designed so they are visible by workers at work stations inside the buildings; and
�
?
designs which will promote the prevention of school crime and violence. Exterior
architectural features without footholds or handholds on exterior walls, tamper-proof doors
and locks, non-breakable glass or shelter window protection system; also landscaping and
tree placement should be designed so they do not provide access to roofs by unauthorized
persons. Sections of schools commonly used after hours should be separated by doors or
other devices from adjacent areas to prevent unauthorized access. Install locks on roof
hatches and apply slippery finishes to exterior pipes.
b.
?
The district can demonstrate that Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design and other
appropriate safety features are incorporated into the design of all new construction.
41, 42
c.
?
The district can demonstrate that whenever facilities are renovated, safety needs are assessed and
safety designs are revised or added to the facility.
43
d.
?
The district can demonstrate that facility maintenance incorporates principles of Crime
Prevention Through Environmental Design.
44
Related Statutes and Rules
In
Does the District Meet the Best Practice? (Please provide explanation)
Yes
No
Progress
N/A
Strategies and Actions to Be Taken
Fiscal Impact and Timeline
41
CPTED design principles include natural surveillance of school grounds, access control, and territoriality. CPTED design features include, but are not limited to,
controlled access entrances, fencing, sufficient entrances and exits, signage, and front desks having views of the entrance.
42
Training in Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design is available from the state’s Department of Education.
43 These needs and designs include lighting, break-proof doors, security systems, fencing, and window or door bars. Essentially, is safety reviewed and addressed as
part of the renovation process?
44 Such as territoriality and ownership.
Page 21 of 30
School Safety & Security Best Practices
With Their Associated Indicators
€
2002-2003 School Safety and Security Self-Assessment Form
€
Page 22 of 30
€
School Safety & Security Best Practices
With Their Associated Indicators
2002-2003 School Safety and Security Self-Assessment Form
Facilities and Equipment
22.
?
The district has procedures that govern access to each educational facility and its students and access is limited to
authorized students and visitors.
Indicators of Meeting the Best Practice
Yes
No
In
Progress
N/A
a.
Entrances to educational facilities are as limited as the physical setting will allow.
b.
Each educational facility has a clearly marked central point for receiving all visitors.
45
c.
?
Each educational facility has a procedure regarding the release of students to parents, guardians,
or other persons.
46
d.
?
Buildings are secured when unoccupied, but security devices shall not prevent egress from the
building at any time.
47
e.
There is a key control program to account for all keys to all buildings, rooms, and gates.
Related Statutes and Rules
In
Does the District Meet the Best Practice? (Please provide explanation)
Yes
No
Progress
N/A
Strategies and Actions to Be Taken
Fiscal Impact and Timeline
45
This will require signs throughout the school telling visitors where to check in and training staff to ensure that visitors check in at the appropriate location.
€
46
This would include procedures such as identification checks.
€
47 This would include times the building is or should be unoccupied such after being closed for this night.
€
Page 23 of 30
School Safety & Security Best Practices
With Their Associated Indicators
2002-2003 School Safety and Security Self-Assessment Form
Facilities and Equipment
23.
?
The district ensures that playgrounds are properly constructed, maintained, and supervised so as to reduce the risk of
injury.
Indicators of Meeting the Best Practice
Yes
No
In
Progress
N/A
a.
?
The district follows US Consumer Product Safety Commission guidelines and consults with other
authorities regarding playground construction materials and regulations.
b.
?
District personnel conduct regular maintenance checks of playground equipment and documents
conditions in need of repair.
c.
The district identifies and corrects playground deficiencies in a timely manner.
d.
?
Playground areas are supervised when children are present and using the areas during school
hours.
Related Statutes and Rules
In
Does the District Meet the Best Practice? (Please provide explanation)
Yes
No
Progress
N/A
Strategies and Actions to Be Taken
Fiscal Impact and Timeline
Page 24 of 30
School Safety & Security Best Practices
With Their Associated Indicators
2002-2003 School Safety and Security Self-Assessment Form
Facilities and Equipment
24. Each educational facility has appropriate equipment to protect the safety and security of property and records.
In
Progress
N/A
Indicators of Meeting the Best Practice
Yes
No
a.
?
Each educational facility has a security system that was selected or designed with input from
security professionals.
48, 49
b.
?
The district can demonstrate that current security equipment is inspected and reviewed annually
by safety and security professionals.
c.
?
Each educational facility maintains evacuation and disaster recovery kits that include copies of all
necessary records and as well as basic equipment, as required by district emergency response
procedures.
50, 51
Related Statutes and Rules
In
Does the District Meet the Best Practice? (Please provide explanation)
Yes
No
Progress
N/A
Strategies and Actions to Be Taken
Fiscal Impact and Timeline
48
This may include alarm systems as well as equipment such as fencing. Not all schools will require electronic security so the selection of security systems should be
based on hazard analyses with input from security professionals.
49
This would include professionals such as fire marshal, police, and security experts.
50 One kit should be in the main office, but another should be kept at the opposite side of the site in case the office is inaccessible or damaged.
51 This includes records such as of staff and student medical records, student and staff rosters, school floor plan, school safety plan, personnel trained in CPR, cell
phone, first aid kit, emergency medicine, weather gear, and bullhorn.
Page 25 of 30
School Safety & Security Best Practices
With Their Associated Indicators
2002-2003 School Safety and Security Self-Assessment Form
Facilities and Equipment
25. The district provides appropriate safety equipment and information to prevent injuries to students and others.
In
Progress
N/A
Indicators of Meeting the Best Practice
Yes
No
a.
Each educational facility is equipped with first aid kits and fire extinguishers.
b.
?
The district has provided appropriate safety equipment in instructional areas with dangerous
equipment or chemicals.
52
c.
?
The district can demonstrate that students and school personnel are trained in the appropriate
safety procedures for dealing with dangerous tools, equipment, or chemicals.
d.
?
The district supplies all necessary protective equipment to minimize the number of injuries
related to athletic activities.
53
Related Statutes and Rules
s. 1006.063,
F.S.
In
Does the District Meet the Best Practice? (Please provide explanation)
Yes
No
Progress
N/A
Strategies and Actions to Be Taken
Fiscal Impact and Timeline
52
This means machinery such as saws or drills for shop class, chemicals for chemistry classes, scalpels for biology, and so forth.
53 For example, the district ensures that athletes wear the proper protective equipment and are properly supervised during practices.
Page 26 of 30
School Safety & Security Best Practices
With Their Associated Indicators
2002-2003 School Safety and Security Self-Assessment Form
Facilities and Equipment
26. The district follows environmental and food safety health practices and regulations.
In
Progress
N/A
Indicators of Meeting the Best Practice
Yes
No
a.
The district follows all appropriate food safety health practices and regulations.
b.
?
The district documents that appropriate personnel have received information and materials
pertaining to their safety-related duties, rights, and responsibilities under Florida law, federal law,
and OSHA.
c.
The district complies with all appropriate federal and state requirements for facility safety.
54
d.
?
The district maintains a copy of the state and local health regulations. All school sites have a copy
of the local health regulations.
e.
?
The district distributes written emergency procedures and plans to each cafeteria site for
reporting, investigating, and correcting the cause of incidents and these documents are available
to all employees.
Related Statutes and Rules
In
Does the District Meet the Best Practice? (Please provide explanation)
Yes
No
Progress
N/A
Strategies and Actions to Be Taken
Fiscal Impact and Timeline
54
Examples include EPA guidelines, Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s Hazardous Communication Standards, federal and state regulations hazardous
materials plans, Asbestos Hazardous Emergency Response Act rules, and other mandated environmental and safety issues, (i.e., Refrigerant Use and Disposal, Florida
Department of Labor and Employment Security regulations).
Page 27 of 30
School Safety & Security Best Practices
With Their Associated Indicators
2002-2003 School Safety and Security Self-Assessment Form
Transportation
27. The district has procedures to create safe and orderly process for students arriving at or leaving each school campus.
Indicators of Meeting the Best Practice
Yes
No
In
Progress
N/A
a.
The district has developed a school safety transportation plan.
b.
School bus service driveways at each school meet the requirements of the Florida Building Code.
c.
?
The district has procedures to ensure the safety of children arriving at each school or leaving each
school campus, including those who walk, ride bicycles, ride in buses, or are passengers or
drivers in private vehicles.
d.
?
Whenever feasible existing schools are renovated to provide for separate drop-off and pick-up
areas for school buses and parents’ and other private passenger vehicles.
e.
?
Whenever feasible existing schools are renovated to provide for separation of vehicular and
pedestrian traffic.
55
Related Statutes and Rules
€
ss. 1006.21, 1006.22, 1006.23,
F.S.
and Rules 6-2.001; 6-3.017(2)(e)2.b,
F.A.C.
€
In
Does the District Meet the Best Practice? (Please provide explanation)
Yes
No
Progress
N/A
Strategies and Actions to Be Taken
Fiscal Impact and Timeline
55 In general, 27d and 27e should be feasible except where prohibited by the physical structure of the school or county regulations.
Page 28 of 30
School Safety & Security Best Practices
With Their Associated Indicators
2002-2003 School Safety and Security Self-Assessment Form
Transportation
28. The district has implemented policies, procedures, and practices that ensure the safety of transported students.
In
Progress
N/A
Indicators of Meeting the Best Practice
Yes
No
a.
?
The district ensures that all new school buses purchased have an appropriate safety restraint
system.
b.
?
The district has procedures to ensure the safety of designated school bus routes and to ensure that
bus stops are designated in the most reasonably safe locations.
56
c.
?
All persons transporting students, including school personnel, charter school personnel, and
contractors, are properly licensed, trained, and qualified.
d.
?
The district has adopted a safe driver plan that defines the threshold for unacceptable levels and
types of violations by all persons transporting students and specifies consequences for those who
exceed the threshold.
e.
?
Each school principal ensures that all transported students receive instruction in safe riding
practices and rules of conduct.
57
f.
?
The district clearly communicates, such as through a checklist, what steps district staff will take
in response to transportation accidents or other transportation emergencies.
58
Related Statutes and Rules
€
ss. 316.6145, 1006.22(12)(c), 1012.45,
F.S.
and Rules 6A-3.0141, 6A-3.0151, and 6-3.017,
F.A.C.
€
In
Does the District Meet the Best Practice? (Please provide explanation)
Yes
No
Progress
N/A
Strategies and Actions to Be Taken
Fiscal Impact and Timeline
56
Procedures should include such requirements as timely reporting and identification of potential hazards by bus operators, reliable intake of reports of potential
hazards by parents and other community members, physical reviews of each route and stop location by transportation personnel at least annually, and correction of
agreed hazards.
57 Student training should include at least the following: safe practices while waiting for, boarding, and disembarking from the bus; safe behavior while riding in the
bus; school bus; evacuation procedures; safe behavior at railroad crossings; and, use of safety restraints (if applicable)
58 District staff should include both bus drivers as well as other affected staff.
Page 29 of 30
School Safety & Security Best Practices
With Their Associated Indicators
2002-2003 School Safety and Security Self-Assessment Form
Transportation
29.
?
School buses, including buses operated by schools, charter schools, and contractors, are inspected and maintained in
accordance with states laws and state Department of Education rules.
Indicators of Meeting the Best Practice
Yes
No
In
Progress
N/A
a.
?
School bus operators perform pre-trip inspection of school bus safety items and correct
deficiencies before buses are used to transport students.
b.
?
School bus inspections are performed every 20 days, and inspectors are trained and certified,
consistent with the required procedures and criteria in the
Florida School Bus Safety Inspection
Manual
.
59
c.
?
District procedures for school bus repair, maintenance, and quality control ensure that buses are
only returned to service to transport students when all safety and mechanical systems meet the
requirements of the
Florida School Bus Safety Inspection Manual
.
d.
?
The district uses a quality control process to review, on a selective basis, the routine servicing and
repair work done on vehicles in connection with the 20-day inspections and confirm the
completeness of the service record.
Related Statutes and Rules
s. 1006.22
F.S.
; and Rules 6-3.017(2)(e), 6-3.017(8),
F.A.C
.
In
Does the District Meet the Best Practice? (Please provide explanation)
Yes
No
Progress
N/A
Strategies and Actions to Be Taken
Fiscal Impact and Timeline
59
Staff should maintain a secure file, include complete records of these inspections and all work done in connection with the inspections, confirming that all buses are
inspected according to the established 20-day inspection schedule
Page 30 of 30