December 2012
Dear Parents/Guardians,
The security of our buildings is one of our foremost concerns because it directly impacts the security of our students and staff. Some of you may know that in 2011 we upgraded our internal and external security by adding 28 cameras in and around the building; these cameras digitally record all activity 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The cameras are monitored throughout the school day. Several weeks ago we decided to have several additional cameras installed; these new cameras will be in place shortly.
There is an additional camera at the front door which is monitored to permit access to the building. We are in the process of upgrading that system as well by adding an additional monitor and two-way voice communication capability.
In October, we began the process of upgrading the public address system that facilitates communication throughout the building. We are awaiting an installation date.
Several years ago we instituted a practice that required all faculty members to carry two-way radios that are monitored during the day; these radios facilitate communication with teachers and staff.
New doors were installed earlier this year from the school yard to the early childhood wing of the building.
An AED (Automated External Defibrillator) has recently been installed in the school auditorium for the safety of all who use the facility.
Each year the school revises and updates a Crisis Management Plan that is filed with the 108th Police Precinct and the Fire Department. This details actions which would engage in the event of an evacuation, intruder, lock down, fire, or other anticipated emergency.
As parents, you should be aware that, in the event of an evacuation, two sites have been approved , one here on the campus in the Parish Center Basketball Court on the second floor, and a second, off site at P.S. 11 located at 56th Street and Skillman Avenue.
Some weeks ago we began to engage an architect to advise us on a plan for greater security at the front entrance and lobby.
As a result of recent events, we are evaluating our policy on visitors to the school. Visitors are not let into the school during school hours without an appointment and are never left unescorted. However, parents/guardians are those who most frequently come to the school. I am asking that you make sure your child is here by 8AM each morning and that you call in advance for an appointment, to assist us in keeping the school a secure place.
Sincerely,
Ms. J. Dolan, Principal
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