Shaker Schools to Review Safety Plan

As part of updates provided at its board of education meeting this week, Shaker Heights Schools announced that it will review safety and security procedures at all of its facilities.

Superintendent Mark Freeman initiated the review in response to last month's shootings at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut. The district said registrar Ouimet Smith will convene a work group of members of the standing safety committee, staff members and the Shaker Heights police and fire chiefs to examine the district's current practices, expert opinions on best practices and areas that require further study.

"The work group is being asked to develop recommendations that are realistic, effective and attentive to the possibility of unintended consequences," the district wrote in a public memo.

What's Shaker Heights City Schools' Crisis Plan?

The district currently has critical events plans in place for violent events, chemical spills, weather emergencies and more. The work group will carefully consider any changes that need to be made, according to the memo.

The group will make recommendations by the end of February.

"For purposes of the review, safety is being defined broadly to include everyday situations as well as extraordinary crises," the memo reads.

"In the near term, the district is strictly enforcing the safety procedures already in place and making some building modifications where appropriate."

Also on Shaker Heights Patch:

• Shaker Heights Schools: District Has 'Comprehensive Crisis Plans' in Place

• Shaker Schools: Today Was "As Close To Normal As Possible"

• REMINDER: Does Your Child's School Know How To Reach You?

• Laurel School Responds to Newtown Tragedy