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Safe to Learn Program from the
Sherriff
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Safe to learn is an educational program designed for students, school
personnel, elected officials, first responders, parents and the
community on the prevention of school Bristol County Sheriff violence.
It teaches preparedness through awareness, as the best methods to
respond to school violence. Sheriff Thomas M. Hodgson initiated the
program to assist communities in Bristol County in the wake of the
mass shootings that struck fear in the hearts of all Americans. The
first phase of the program attempts to balance the delicate issue of
education of young people and a safe and secure learning environment.
School Administrators are taught how to protect their students with
the resources available. If funds are limited, or not available to
ensure that the buildings are secure, how do you prioritize resources?
Many schools have instituted security plans as a reaction to the
hysteria following the mass school shootings. These plans must be
updated and refined based on the latest technical knowledge. The .Safe
to Learn Program. will assist educators to recognize areas where
weaknesses or omissions are detected and provided guidance to improve
their crisis response plans. In accordance with Chapter 159 of the
Acts of 2000, Section 363 we will assist schools with their
multi-hazard evacuation plans. Phase Two of the program is the school
audit assessment program and involves working with the school
administration, local police departments, fire service and EMS
personnel. It provides the school administration with an in-depth look
at their present security exposure and possible ways to make the
school safer. An initial meeting between the Superintendent and
Sheriff may lead to a presentation to the school committee. After
approval is received, the Sheriff will appoint an assessment team that
will be comprised of a member of his office and an officer from the
local police department. The third phase of the .Safe to Learn Program
emphasizes training. Schools may send staff members to a one-day
training program. Requests to the Sheriff to send personnel to the
school to train school personnel will be programmed on an availability
basis. Special Operation personnel will also be available to educate
and train students in anti-violence and anger control. Thomas M.
Hodgson
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