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What Works in Public Education

The Edutopia Poll

by Sara Ring

In the wake of school shootings from Columbine to Virginia Tech, administrators across the country are implementing crisis-response plans to keep their schools safe. Although every school has different needs, valuable tools include violence-prevention programs, emergency-communication procedures, and local law-enforcement advice. Holding lockdown and evacuation drills can also help avoid tragedy. But not all schools have prepared themselves should violence arise. How does your school measure up?

Is your school prepared to handle a violent attack?

Yes. Our school has made safety a priority by setting up a comprehensive plan to prevent and respond to violence. Teachers are well prepared to facilitate emergency procedures, and students know what is expected of them and how to protect themselves.

Somewhat. Although there are some guidelines in place, they are not enough to ensure true preparedness. Much more needs to be done before our school’s crisis-response plan is as effective as it needs to be.

No. Our school has put little to no effort into creating a coordinated response plan. Should an attack occur, we would be woefully unprepared to handle it.