• School Resource Officers (SROs) in schools are trained for emergencies, and the staff knows to contact law enforcement anytime there is a perceived threat to safety and security.
• Student mental health and support staff are always available, including counselors, psychologists, social work and partnerships for school-based mental health services. Parents can contact school staff if they notice disturbing changes in behavior or think their children may need mental/emotional support for any reason.

Buildings

• All schools are required to create and update a safety plan to be activated in an emergency. While the staff is trained to implement this plan, specific details in these plans are kept confidential to ensure maximum security effectiveness.
• Lock-down drills are conducted twice annually and evaluated for improvement. Students and staff practice emergency procedures to block access to rooms. Learn about lockdowns.
• Closed campuses at all schools with exterior access doors locked and admittance controlled. Violations should be reported to school staff. Building security features:
  • Secured doors, main entry buzz-in and camera systems at all schools.
  • Fencing around school grounds.
  • Future school buildings are planned with security vestibules at the entrance.
• Lobby area technology (Lobby Guard) provides background screening for all visitors, volunteers and guests, alerting staff when persons who should not be on campus attempt to be admitted.

Prevention

• Access for students grades 6-12 to the Say Something Anonymous Reporting system, including an app, website and 800 number, for submitting tips about possible threats to schools or students who may harm themselves.
• Active survival instruction and training by a specialized CMSPD Instructor yearly for all CMS staff and employees.
• Bullying prevention anonymous reporting platform.
• Additional protocols and procedures at every school and CMS facility are not disclosed to preserve safety and security.
• Random safety screenings are conducted  across K-8, middle and high schools. Screenings are also conducted at random by:
  • Gun detection canine
  • Narcotics detection canine
• Body scanners are actively monitoring entrances at select our comprehensive high schools. Installations are planned for K-8 and middle schools. 

Support

• CMS, law enforcement, community agencies and partners will remain vigilant to keep students and staff safe in every Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools classroom, building and facility.
• Community conversations in each learning community for feedback on what makes safe schools in our Let's Talk About Safety Nights series.