“School security is a top priority,” said Dr. Bill Watson, diocesan superintendent of the Office of Catholic Schools. “There are always new insights on how best to implement safety and security protocols, and reminders about best practices, even for the most experienced school administrators. “
On Jan. 10, principals from across the Diocese of Camden attended a presentation on school security and preparedness as a part of a professional development meeting at Saint Joseph Regional School, Somers Point. The presentation was offered by Dr. Thomas Gambino, education program development specialist for the Office of School Preparedness and Emergency Planning from the New Jersey Department of Education.
Dr. Gambino provided details on identification and prevention of potential security threats; protocols for securing the inside and outside of school buildings and how to work closely with one’s staff and local first responders.
Steve Hogan, principal at Saint Mary School, Vineland, said he found the presentation educational. “I believe it is important that principals are updated regularly about school safety laws and standards for schools,” Hogan said. “School safety workshops also provide an opportunity to enter into pertinent discussions with the presenter to clarify questions concerning the implementation of safety protocols and deep sharing with other principals about best practices.”
Dr. Gambino walked the principals through several real-life scenarios and ways to implement new protocols. Patti Paulsen, principal at Holy Angels Catholic School, Woodbury, considers these updates imperative to her work. “It is crucial to attend security sessions pertaining to our schools. There is always something to learn or a new way to improve on what we are currently doing.”
The topic of school security comes up for principals on a regular basis, from both current parents and potential new school families. “During the enrollment process, aside from questions concerning academics and faith formation, it is quite common for new parents to ask questions about safety protocols of the school,“ Hogan said. “Parents expect that the school is implementing safety policies that protect their children and that the school considers safety a top priority.”
Dr. Watson said he was pleased with the gathering. “Our principals do an excellent job of maintaining safety and security, yet they were so grateful for the reminders and the opportunity to ask questions of each other and Dr. Gambino,” Dr. Watson noted. “It speaks to their constant vigilance and desire to continue to improve as they nurture safe, secure, high quality learning environments for all students.”
Safety is a key element of the education process, and it can’t be underestimated, Dr. Watson continued. “If students, teachers and leaders do not feel safe, all of what we do is compromised,” he said. “Establishing safe, secure environments and being prepared to handle threats to safety in a calm, organized way helps everyone stay focused so we can build the communities that make Catholic schools so strong.”
Michael Bress is communications and marketing manager for the Diocese’s Office of Catholic Education.
More Catholic Schools Week Online!
Check out the Jan. 30 Talking Catholic podcast as hosts from the Office of Catholic Schools sit down with Catholic school principals from around the Diocese.
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