An Update from Superintendent Skertich on School Safety and Support

Kahok Families:

Like others across the country, we are deeply saddened by the tragedy that occurred yesterday at Silver Rail Elementary School in Bend, Oregon.  Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to the victims, students, families, staff, and the entire Bend community during this time.  

When a school tragedy like this occurs, it naturally raises anxiety and questions about safety in our schools and how we process unsettling news.  We want to assure you about the measures we take every day to keep your children safe and provide resources to support your family’s emotional wellbeing.

Safety and Security Measures in Our Schools

The safety and security of our students and staff remain our highest priority.  We maintain rigorous protocols and work closely with local law enforcement to ensure a safe learning environment.  

• Building Access Controls:  All exterior doors remain locked during school hours.  Visitors must enter through secure main entrance dual-door vestibules using our Raptor visitor identification system.  
• Secure Doors and Glass:  As part of the upgrades funded through the March 2024 ballot initiative,  resistant film has been, and continues to be, installed on school windows and doors.  Aging exterior doors are being replaced with new, more secure models.
• OPENGATE Threat Detection System:  Students and visitors are screened by our OPENGATE system when entering school buildings or athletic venues. 
• Safety Drills and Emergency Protocols:  Our staff and students participate in regular safety drills, including lockdown and active threat protocols, guided by standard emergency response procedures.  
• Law Enforcement Partnerships:  We maintain continuous coordination with law enforcement agencies in our communities.  School resource officers and district security personnel are onsite and regularly patrol and inspect our campuses.  
• Continuous Review:  Following events like the one that occurred yesterday, our safety team and administration conduct thorough reviews of our physical security measures and emergency response procedures across all district facilities. Working with law enforcement, we constantly reevaluate and reinforce safety initiatives in our schools. 

Supporting Your Child at Home

Tragic events like this can be overwhelming for children and adults.  Children may experience a range of emotions, from worry and fear to sadness or confusion.  Here are a few ways you can support your child in the coming days:

• Maintain Routines:  Predictable schedules at home and school provide children with a sense of safety and normalcy.  
• Listen and Validate:  Encourage your child to share their thoughts and feelings.  Validate their emotions, and reassure them that caring adults at home and school are working to keep them safe.
• Limit Exposure to Media:  Continuous news coverage and social media commentary can heighten anxiety, especially in younger children.  Consider limiting media exposure over the coming days.
• Resources:  We have included links to several resources to help you and your family discuss and process yesterday’s tragedy.  Do not hesitate to reach out to your child’s school for additional support.  

See Something, Say Something

• Communicate suspicions and concerns with principals, staff. or law enforcement:  The goal is to always be proactive regarding risks and threats before they arise.  Our ability to thwart a problem is only as good as the information we get from families, students and community members. Your involvement is a vital part in the district’s efforts to provide a safe environment for our schools.
• Encourage your children to speak up if they see or hear something concerning:  Whether they see or hear something in person or online, encourage them to tell you or another trusted adult.  Concerns can always be reported to school staff and student resource officers, as well as local law enforcement.

We encourage you to call 911 if there is an imminent danger, and to share non-emergency information with our principals, counselors, or local police by contacting the dispatch numbers for each community. (List of non-emergency phone numbers is attached.)

As we have repeatedly said, the safety and welfare of our students is a top priority in our school district.  The tragedy in Bend, Oregon, is another harsh reminder that, despite having plans in place, no school is immune to senseless violence. 

We rely on the strength and constant dedication of our Kahok community to support the safety and well-being of our students and staff.  Thank you as we work together to provide a safe and nurturing environment for our children.  
 
Mark B. Skertich, Ed.D.
Superintendent