Wednesday, September 17, 2003

Fayette's school safety plan approved by state regulators The Fayette County School System's school safety plan has been re-approved by the Georgia Emergency Management Agency. The plan, which addresses how a number of emergency scenarios should be handled, is required by legislation that was passed in 1999. Each public school must develop and implement a safety plan that addresses acts of violence or terrorism, natural disasters, hazardous materials and radiological incidents, according to GEMA. This is the second time Fayette County has successfully met the requirements of the law, officials said. The plans must be reassessed every two years. "School safety is not static. It must be re-examined regularly," said GEMA Director Mike Sherberger. "Fayette County school officials have once again demonstrated they are progressive and committed to safeguarding their students." GEMA offers training and technical assistance to educators and emergency personnel, including public safety officers. The training includes site surveys and safety audits, weapons screening, school bus safety, gangs, bullying, exercise design and bomb threat management. A model safety plan has been developed for schools to adapt to their own needs, officials said. What do you think of this story? Click here to send a message to the editor. Back to the News Home Page| Back to the top of the page