FALLS VILLAGE—In a letter to the Board of Selectmen, new Region 1 Superintendent of Schools Melony Brady-Shanley recently discussed school security measures and concerns.
“Our schools should be a place of refuge, learning and safety,” she wrote, acknowledging that violent incidents in other areas have created an aura of “anxiety, worry and unrest among families, students and staff.”
She said it is important to address common questions about how Region 1 is handing security, including prevention, reporting, resources and communication.
Prevention is the number one line of defense.
Brady-Shanley said there are numerous supports in place, including programs that encourage positive social behaviors among students, partnerships with outside agencies, detailed security plans, emergency drill practices, and risk assessments.
Parents and persons who feel there is imminent harm or danger, should immediately notify 911, she said. If the concern is not imminent, she advised callers to contact the school principal of the appropriate school.
“When calling the main office, inform the school secretary that it is urgent to speak with the principal,” she advised. “Your school principal will discuss the concern with you. If possible, provide screenshots or other relevant information.”
Following the report, the principal will contact appropriate officials—superintendent, law enforcement, mental health services, 911 or EMTs.
“Every report will be taken seriously,” she promised, “and we will always err on the side of caution and safety. Never hesitate to report concerns.”
She strongly encourages families to discuss the seriousness of posting threats online.
“Monitor their phones and social media accounts and explain that even ‘joking’ or ‘playing around’ can result in legal trouble and school disciplinary action,” she advised.
Region 1 consists of the elementary schools in Kent, Sharon, Cornwall, Falls Village, Salisbury and Canaan, as well as Housatonic Valley Regional High School in Falls Village.
