School Safety a 'Top Priority,' LTPS Superintendent Says

Editor's Note: The following letter was released Monday by Lawrence Township Public Schools. It follows an earlier letter released by the school district on Dec. 14.

Dec. 17, 2012

Dear LTPS Community and Families:

Thank you for sharing your concerns and suggestions in response to the Newtown, Connecticut, tragedy that unfolded last Friday. We are all deeply saddened and our thoughts continue to be with that community as they work through their grief.

I can assure you that the safety of our students and staff is always a top priority. We have a school security plan in place and review and practice it regularly. We work with the Lawrence Township Police Department on drills and communications, including those for a building lockdown.

The Connecticut incident is a stark reminder of the importance of our safety procedures and check-in process for all visitors to schools. We have locked safety/security doors at the main entrance to each school and all visitors must be “buzzed” in to gain access. Visitors sign in at the main office and media, vendors, and delivery drivers check in as well. All exterior building doors are locked during the day.

These are just a few of the procedures we enforce to help ensure we know who is on campus. Certainly in this day and age we can never be absolutely protected against all circumstances, but we do educate our staff and students and have ongoing safety protocols and drills throughout the year.

Sincerely,

Crystal M. Edwards, Ed.D, Superintendent