Security and Preparedness

PREVENTION

OLSD completes a number of security and preparedness functions on a regular basis geared toward preventing incidents. These tasks include but are not limited to: building design and layout, security technologies, layers of security (lighting, technologies, etc.), Crime Prevention through Environmental Design, (CPTED), training of students, faculty and staff, formalized Threat Assessment Teams (TAT), facilitating and conducting drills and exercises, as well as comprehensive policies, procedures and plans.

PROTECTION

Similarly, OLSD establishes numerous protective measures, some more obvious than others. These include but are not limited to: focused security technologies, secure doors, gates, fences, communication devices, panic buttons, response training, etc.

PREPAREDNESS

Plans, Training and Exercises

The Safety and Security Department provides information and training in safety and security and issues. Training topics include first aid, verbal de-escalation and conflict management, critical incident management, child abuse and other safety courses. Additionally, written safety materials for staff, student and parents are also available.

RESPONSE

Emergency Operations Team

Each school in the District has a dedicated Emergency Operations Team (EOT) that has been trained on the school’s individualized Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) as well as other national best practices for incident management. Working in partnership with local first responders, the building’s EOT responsibilities including managing life safety until the arrival of first responders, liaising with first responders during the incident, and managing the crisis through to Recovery.

Each one of OLSD’s EOPs are crafted specifically for that particular building, using best practices and lessons learned from a variety of sources, including the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s  (FEMA) six-step planning process and the Ohio Department of Education’s Safer Schools initiative. Subject matter experts in the State of Ohio review each plan every three years to assure compliance with best practices, lessons learned, and statutory requirements found in the Ohio Revised Code.

RECOVERY

As soon as possible (usually within the first hour of the incident), OLSD’s EOT begins to work toward recovery.  Recovery is vitally important to the overall health of the students, faculty, staff, and the community.

Critical Incident Debriefing

After critical incidents, the Safety and Security Department provides schools with resources to support the emotional needs of staff, students and parents/guardians.

Operational Critiques

Each critical incident provides an opportunity to review performance and standards. The Safety and Security Department assists schools and administrators with reviewing performance and updating skills.