February 22, 2018

Dear Stevensville School Students, Parents, and Staff,

In light of the recent tragic school shooting in Florida as well as the local threats to schools in neighboring communities, I want to reassure you that the Stevensville School District is constantly working to keep our students and employees safe while they are at school.

Our administrative team and safety team convened following the events of the past week to work to address any and all safety concerns. Prior to these events, I had already ordered the replacement of all exterior locks. Following our meetings, I have directed that our staff revise several identified emergency protocols and procedures and we are working to revise access to our buildings.

Several major safety upgrades are included in the bond request that will be before our voters in May. These safety changes will greatly improve supervision of anyone approaching and accessing our buildings. At the same time, we will be instituting other changes that we deem necessary to provide a safe environment.

We will continue to commit to active shooter training in the District for all staff and will reaffirm the basic active shooter principles of: 1) flee if possible, 2) barricade and hide if you cannot escape, and 3) fight the intruder if necessary.

I have also contacted the Montana Attorney General to push for the allowance of our internal classroom locking devices which were removed by order of the Fire Marshal. I have solicited the help of an assistant attorney general to move our request forward. Many of our staff and parents have joined in contacting the Attorney General to support this request. It is my hope that Attorney General Fox will force the State Fire Marshal to acquiesce to the modern needs of school safety.

Rest assured that we are on high alert for any unusual event and we will continue to evaluate safety. However, the best possible method of prevention is continuing to provide students with a safe, caring environment that holistically addresses social/emotional needs, mental health, and educational needs. Finally, I would ask for the vigilance of everyone. It is always better to report a concern than remain silent. If you see something, say something.

Thank you for being a part of this great school community.

Sincerely,

 

Robert Moore Ed.D.

Superintendent

Stevensville Public Schools