Review Agenda Item
Meeting Date: 7/15/2022 - 7:00 PM
Category: Facilities and Operations
Type: Info
Subject: Proactive Safety Planning, SY22-23
ACPS 2025 Strategic Plan Goal:
Goal 1: Systemic Alignment
ACPS will build a culture of continuous improvement and design equitable systems for school and instructional improvement.
Goal 2: Instructional Excellence
ACPS will ensure that all students have access to and engagement with high-quality instruction.
Goal 3: Student Accessibility and Support
ACPS will ensure students have equitable access to and engagement with programs and supports that reduce barriers to learning.
Goal 4: Strategic Resource Allocation
ACPS will strategically provide differentiated resources and supports to schools and departments.
Goal 5: Family and Community Engagement
ACPS will ensure that all families and community members feel welcomed, respected, and valued.
Policy: EA - Support Services
Funding Source or Fiscal Impact (where applicable)
File Attachment:
220715_Board_Brief_Proactive_Safety_Planning_SY22-23.pdf
Agenda Item Summary: The Department of Facilities and Operations, via the Office of the Chief and Safety and Security Services, has proactively begun small-group discussions (as of June 2022) regarding additional safety and well-being measures to be implemented throughout the upcoming school year.

Small Group Composition
The small-group is comprised of the Superintendent, Chief of Facilities and Operations, Chief of Teaching, Learning and Leadership, Chief of Student Services and Equity, Chief of Accountability and Research, Chief of Technology Services, Chief of Financial Services, Chief of School and Community Relations, Chief of Human Resources, Director of Safety and Security Services, Coordinator of Security and Emergency Operations and the Executive Principal of Alexandria City High School. This small-group was convened to review and develop feasible action steps that can be taken to continuously improve safety and student well-being in SY22-23. Action steps are not being developed solely through the lens of safety, but also through the lens of Social, Emotional and Academic Learning (SEAL), funding resources and accessibility, innovative technology approaches and how to best approach the instructional day (specifically at our secondary locations).

In addition, the team is also reviewing results from the Equity Climate Survey that pertain to safety feelings and perceptions of the division. We are keenly aware of community concerns related to the safety of the division that have been communicated publicly, via email and through ASK ACPS. The small-group is mindful to put forth action steps that address those concerns to the best of our ability.

Upcoming Deliverables
In August, action steps will be shared with the School Board and community. The action steps will be segmented into three categories; Immediate, Phased, and Long-Term. Some of the action steps may require policy change, in which we will seek the School Board’s review and approval.
Background: The Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS) Office of Safety and Security Services is responsible for the physical security and environmental safety of all ACPS facilities. The office maintains and upgrades security systems, plans and implements safety policies and procedures, and completes regulatory testing and compliance efforts in relation to environmental safety and indoor air quality.
Recommendation: The Superintendent recommends that the School Board review this board brief on proactive safety and well-being planning for SY22-23.
Approvals:
Recommended By:
Signed By:
Dr. Alicia Hart - Executive Director of Facilities and Operations
Signed By:
Dr. Gregory C. Hutchings, Jr. - Superintendent