LANSING — The Michigan State Police Office of School Safety has released three new toolkits designed to help K-12 educators strengthen safety protocols and create more secure learning environments.
According to an Oct. 20 news release, they were developed with federal funding, the School Safety Toolkits are available online and offer guidance for improving preparedness and response within school communities.
“Strengthening your school safety plan is one of the best proactive moves you can make,” said Col. James F. Grady II, director of the Michigan State Police. “Each toolkit provides specific guidance on how to construct well-rounded plans using step-by-step tools, clearly defined roles and responsibilities, and proven strategies.”
The three downloadable toolkits include School Crisis Communication Planning, which helps schools develop messaging strategies that build trust and reduce confusion during emergencies; Emergency Preparedness for School Events, which offers guidance for planning before, during, and after school-sponsored events; and Best Practices for Investigating Student Online Activity, which helps staff navigate responsible online investigations.
The project is supported by Michigan’s FY19 STOP School Violence Technology and Threat Assessment Solutions for Safer Schools Program, funded by the Bureau of Justice Assistance, Office of Justice Programs, U.S. Department of Justice, and administered by the Michigan State Police.
The release coincides with America’s Safe Schools Week, observed Oct. 19–25, which encourages schools across Michigan to review safety plans and resources.