With the rise of concerns about gun violence in schools, ensuring student safety has become a top priority. Chandler Unified School District (CUSD) has taken a proactive approach to protect students on campus by implementing various security measures to create a secure learning environment.
Superintendent Frank Narducci outlined several of the district’s safety initiatives CUSD has implemented to assist in the safety campuses, “A safety team is initiated at every CUSD school, there is a designated school resource officer (SRO) at every junior high and high school. We also have security personnel at all junior high and high schools.”
Narducci also emphasized the importance of being prepared. “Ongoing safety drills are practiced regularly following ADE/FEMA guidelines. These drills include lockdown and evacuation preparedness,” he stated. Additionally, CUSD had increased physical security measures, including additional cameras, enhanced fencing to limit access, and locked doors. “In many instances, gates to school campuses are closed to provide limited access and egress to our schools,” he noted.
Students also play a crucial role in maintaining a safe environment, and Narducci encourages students to remain vigilant. “Practice situational awareness, see something, say something, and report, don’t repost,” he added. Getting to know the campus SRO and having open conversations with trusted adults at home or school are additional ways students can continue to a softer campus.
Officer Jesse Allen, the SRO, emphasized the importance of communication between students and school staff. “The Chandler distinct as a whole uses a system though Lightspeed,” Allen said, referring to the district’s anonymous tip line systems. It is the safe software that monitors the school’s computers. For students who need to report concerns he added “The Gilbert Police Department has anonymous tip lines as well, and we try to keep communication open between students.”
While anonymous tips are a valuable resource, Officer Allen Expressed a preference for direct communication. “I would prefer kids to report things directly to somebody,” he said, as it is the fastest way to get assistance. He reiterated the district moto: “Report, don’t repost”
Narducci stressed the importance of following safety protocols to ensure student well-being. “Safety is of the utmost importance to maintain safe schools, decrease anxiety, and maximize learning. Students, staff, and families must work together,” he said. Keeping schools safe is a group effort.
Students can call, email, or submit concerns through the online form. The district encourages students to share their concerns about classmates or school safety to prevent potential incidents and ensure a safe school.
By working together and staying vigilant, students and staff can help ensure that campuses remain safe. Reporting concerns quickly and following safety protocols are essential steps in preventing potential threats and maintaining a secure environment.
