Keeping Schools Safe
The Safety and Security Department was established to work with schools and the district office to improve safety for students, employees and visitors. Using the all-hazards approach, the department helps develop, establish and enforce safety and security policies, accident prevention efforts, fire safety, emergency management, asset protection, parking control and traffic enforcement programs.
Through a partnership with the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office, each of the Williamson County schools have School Resource Officers (SRO) in the building.
The district also works with Safe Havens International Inc. which provided a comprehensive assessment of the district’s safety, security and emergency management plans.
The district has a tip line which citizens may call to report safety and fraud concerns. The tip line’s number is (615) 472-5555. In addition, and in conjunction with local law enforcement agencies, citizens are encouraged to call Crime Stoppers with information to aid in investigations. The Crime stoppers phone number is (615) 794-4000.
A joint effort between Williamson County Schools and the Williamson County Sheriff's Office (WSCO) is putting student safety at the forefront.
The new Public Service Announcements (PSAs), Time to Talk Safety, produced by the WCS Communications Department, stress the importance of families talking with their students. The video topics were selected by WCS Safety and Security Director Michael Fletcher and WSCO detectives.
Safety Terms for Parents
Lockdown
A lockdown is initiated when violence is possible or actively occurring inside a school building. This is an immediate action drill that is used to protect students and staff. Staff members will prepare their classrooms following the safety protocol. They will hold in place until law enforcement and/or administration provides guidance. No one will be allowed to enter the building.
Shelter-in-Place
A shelter-in-place is used to proactively protect students and staff during possible situations that may be occurring in the area and might impact a school building. Some examples of these are extreme weather (severe storm, tornado, etc.), law enforcement activity in the area, and hazardous materials incident. Classes should continue as normal unless otherwise directed by the school administrator.
Evacuation
An evacuation occurs when it is possible the interior of the building is or may become dangerous. This is commonly known as a fire drill. Students and staff are directed to exit the building to a safe area outside. Other examples include fire/smoke, gas leak, building unstable, and a bomb threat.
