Gun Violence in Schools

Condemnation of Gun Violence in Schools

Yesterday, Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas experienced a horrifying act of violence which resulted in the tragic loss of 15 innocent lives; 14 children and one teacher. Many more were injured. We share in the grief and frustration that follows these far too common events. Read our complete statement.

Gun violence and school shootings are complicated topics that affect each of us in different ways. The following resources may be helpful as we all process yesterday’s events:

Gun Violence Prevention

Student Safety and Wellness

Because of the potential for both intended and unintended threats to our schools, FCPS has focused a great deal of attention to emergency procedures and is vigilant about protecting the safety of its students and employees. The school division has spent considerable time and effort in planning and practicing day-to-day safety and security measures, as well as addressing the response to a major critical incident. Among these measures are:

  • Physical Security (Locked doors, intrusion alarms, electronic door access, CCTV)
  • Visitor Management System and Procedures (Deployed system-wide)
  • Emergency planning coordination with police, fire, and emergency management offices
  • Comprehensive division-wide crisis management plan
  • Individual school crisis plans-updated annually
  • Lockdown, Fire, and Tornado Drills
  • Safety training and Table Top exercises at all schools
  • Critical incident terms awareness and training (Lockdown, Secure the Building, Shelter in Place, Stay Put Stay Tuned)
  • Threat assessment process
  • Confidential tip, text, and email programs
  • Uniformed school security patrols (24x7)
  • Employee training in crisis management and communication. (Lockdown, Evacuation, and “Run, Hide, Fight”)
  • SROs at all middle and high schools
  • FCPS security personnel at all middle and high schools
  • Mandatory annual safety training for all students and staff
  • Systemwide emergency alert systems

Safety and security is everyone’s job. Staff, students, parents, and the community at large are reminded to incorporate safety and security awareness as routine, and to immediately report any unusual activity to the authorities. Know that we take the safety and security of all students very seriously, and additional information regarding our programs can be found here.

Ryan Richardson

Princpal