COLUMBUS – October has been declared School Safety Month in Ohio, intended to increase public awareness of school safety programs and to encourage teachers, administrators and parents to identify the roles they play in keeping the state’s schools safe.
The Ohio School Safety Center will focus on several different areas during the month, including encouraging schools to adopt an anonymous reporting system or tip lines where students and community members can report potential threats.
During the first week of the month, the focus will be on comprehensive safety, such as practicing behavioral threat assessment.
Other areas of emphasis include suicide and bullying prevention
October 19 is Unity Day, when students are encouraged to wear orange to show unity and kindness toward others.
During National School Bus Safety Week October 17-21, schools are encouraged to conduct a safety drill and a physical security and vulnerability assessment with local law enforcement. On Oct. 20, Great Shake Out Day, millions of people worldwide will participate in earthquake drills at work, school, or home
Between October 23 and 29, student, parents and guardians, teachers and school staff will be encouraged to learn the roles they play in school safety. Administrators are encouraged to meet with staff, help them identify their roles, and create a safety plan for the school year.