Emergency Plan Update

Recent news reports have highlighted efforts of Fairfax County Public Schools to be well prepared for a variety of emergency situations. In light of several events over the past two years, we have all become acutely aware of the need to be prepared to protect the safety of our students and the staffs of our schools. Centre Ridge Elementary, along with all Fairfax County Schools, has an extensive safety, security, and emergency readiness plan. We follow prescribed guidelines to ensure the safety of students. I want to assure you that our safety and security plans are being fully implemented and that our staff at Centre Ridge Elementary is continually updated and trained in appropriate response scenarios. Your children are safe and secure at Centre Ridge Elementary.

Each safety, security, or emergency situation that may arise can result in a variety of uniquely different responses. After assessing the actual risks of any event, we then implement appropriate responses to ensure everyone's safety. We practice emergency procedures with the staff and students by conducting safety drills (e.g. fire evacuation drills, tornado drills, bus evacuation drills, and lock down responses). The school division's Office of Security and Risk Management review all of our safety procedures. You are encouraged to visit their website for detailed information about safety, security, and emergency plans:www.fcps.edu/DOC/support/index.htm

In addition, parents are reminded to subscribe to "Keep in Touch" for instant emergency announcements.

The administrative team and the entire CR staff are here to serve the needs of your children while they are in our care. It is of paramount importance to us all that our students are safe and secure while they are at school. Our guidelines, procedures and contingency plans help to ensure just that. It is difficult to read about emergencies, threats, and the like; but rest assured we are here to do our very best to maintain a safe and secure setting at Centre Ridge Elementary.