Presidents Elementary School

Dear Arlington Public Schools Families:

The safety of your child is always a top priority for Arlington Public Schools. In 2016, we commissioned a Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) study, which identified safety and security improvements throughout the district. These improvements and a rebuild of Post Middle School were recognized as a primary concern by the district’s Facility Advisory Committee and School Board and were included in the recent February 2018 bond proposal. Even though the bond did not meet the 60% approval requirement, safety and security improvements are still needed at our schools.

One of the best ways to increase school safety is to secure the buildings from unauthorized visitors. Visitor entry systems to prevent unauthorized access are being installed at all elementary schools, Haller Middle School and Weston High School. Once the system is installed, all main entry doors will be locked during the school day. Visitors will push a button on a call box in front of the school to request entry into the building. A video camera and microphone will allow school staff to see and talk with the visitor. School staff will be able to unlock the front door and allow visitors to enter and register in the school’s main office.

The systems will be activated at each school as their installations are completed. The work is scheduled to be completed by the end of April. While these are not the same improvements proposed in the February 2018 bond, they will provide increased security for our students and staff.

We know that these security improvements will be a change for visitors to our schools. Every visitor will be screened each time they enter the school, which may require additional time. We ask for your patience as we implement these security improvements.

In addition to these visitor entry systems, other security enhancements will be installed at Post Middle School, Arlington High School and the Stillaguamish Valley Learning Center throughout 2018. If you have any questions regarding these upcoming changes, please contact your child’s principal. For more information about the district’s safety and security efforts, please visit the Safety & Security web page on the “For Families” tab at www.asd.wednet.edu.

Thank you for your continued support as an active partner in your child’s education. As always, our goal is to provide a safe and caring environment to educate, prepare and inspire high levels of learning for your child.

Enjoy the upcoming spring break!

Chrys

Dr. Chrys Sweeting
Superintendent