The safety of our students and staff throughout Bonita Unified School District remains paramount. The design and implementation of emergency response plans, including lockdown procedures, communication during emergencies, and training for staff and students must be on-going.
The week following the tragedy at Sandy Hook, the District moved forward with several safety-related initiatives involving a thorough review of safety plans and response procedures by Principals and the Superintendent's Cabinet. The La Verne Police Department and the San Dimas Sheriff's Department increased visits to each school immediately and have maintained a more visible presence.
Additionally, security experts were brought in to provide professional school safety and security walk-throughs at each of our 13 schools, as well as the District Office, which resulted in various recommended security upgrades. Each school has bolstered their written procedures for lockdown response to security threats and lockdown drills. Several schools invited local police to observe their drills and provide feedback.
We will continue to investigate and consider recommendations for immediate and long-term actions that will enhance student and staff safety district-wide. This will include safety drills and on-going collaboration with law enforcement.
I cannot say enough in praise of the La Verne Police Department and the San Dimas Sheriff's Department. They continue to be close partners with Bonita Unified School District and consistently demonstrate a deep care and concern for the safety of our students and staff.
