ENHANCED CAMERA SYSTEM

The school’s security camera system has been enhanced. Our school administrative and security teams collaborate closely with the Technology departments to keep our school security camera system up and running. The extra security measures around campus are all about making sure every student feels safe and cared for. By carefully putting these measures in place, we're actively fostering a safe space for learning, so students can concentrate on their education while feeling safe on campus.

 

These enhancements were not made in response to injury, harm or threats. In fact, SCHS is proud to have a great track record of safety on campus. All of these upgrades were made proactively, to help keep our students, staff, parents, and friends safe. 

 

There’s more on the horizon for the Winter/Spring 2024 semester:

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NEW LIGHTING INSTALLATIONS
Exciting developments are underway as we enhance the lighting infrastructure across our campus! The installation of new lighting is already making a positive impact, with additional projects in the pipeline to further elevate safety and aesthetics. Anticipate a significant upgrade in the next two years, as we focus on enhancing lighting not only around the campus but specifically on the ramp to the football field and the front of the school. Stay tuned for these transformative improvements, illuminating our surroundings for a brighter and more secure environment.

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CPR TRAINING FOR STAFF

CPR training will equip the staff with lifesaving skills through professional courses. This will empower them to act fast in emergencies, potentially saving lives. Being CPR-ready builds trust and confidence, creating a safer space for students, staff, and visitors. Our Safety Committee representative from the San Miguel Fire Department is working closely with our school nurse, Chelsea Mottola to offer this important training for staff. Training will occur in January all day, so that teachers can attend during their planning periods.

 

STAFF TRAINING FOR ADMINISTERING NARCAN 

Narcan is nasal spray medicine that acts as an emergency antidote, rapidly reversing opioid overdoses. Through professional training, staff will learn to spot signs like slowed breathing and blue lips, then confidently administer Narcan, potentially saving lives.

 

We are grateful that our Principal, Mr. Parr, his staff and the school board are taking these important steps and elevating safety. We also appreciate that the administration is open to input and feedback. It’s thanks to new perspectives, creative ideas, valuable dialog and thoughtful solutions that meaningful change can happen.

 

We invite you to send your safety-related comments and questions to TakeCare@schscougars.org — we may publish your question anonymously in our newsletter or on the Cougar website.

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PARENT QUESTION OF THE MONTH

“Is there a correlation between extracurricular activities and students staying safe?”

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STAFF ANSWER 

Research indicates a positive correlation between students' involvement in extracurricular activities and their overall safety. Research studies have found that adolescents who participated in structured extracurricular activities exhibited lower engagement in risky behaviors (Fredricks and Eccles/ Mahoney and Stattin). Extracurricular activities not only offer a structured and supervised environment but also contribute to the development of positive social connections and a sense of belonging, which are associated with reduced involvement in unsafe behaviors. Students engaged in such activities tend to develop a stronger sense of purpose and connection to their school community, fostering a safer and more supportive environment. It’s also important to note that balance matters; overdoing activities can lead to burnout and stress which aren’t healthy or safe! So finding an equilibrium is key. From dance to drama, art, clubs, and sports, SCHS offers a massive variety of ways to get involved and enjoy the full experience of our Cougar community. Many clubs meet during lunch, so students can find ways to become involved in our school culture during the school day as well.” — EP Hernandez, Assistant Principal for Graduating Class of 2027, Title IX Officer, and Safety Coordinator

 

Thank you for reading our first issue. Please visit the “Take Care” section of our school website at schscougars.org/take-care to see all of our monthly safety articles, updates and parent questions.