Safety Update

Today was a new, great day at Paine Intermediate.  Students went about their day, working hard and learning.  Teachers set the same high expectations as always, and our students lived up to those expectations.  Counselors were available to talk with any students who were upset or afraid, and teachers assured students of their safety.  As school leader, I spoke with students via WPIN, assuring them that they were safe and that they should work hard throughout the day.  For students, the day was normal. 

Various steps were taken to increase security and safety for students and staff.  Our school crisis management team, along with three Trussville police officers and central office personnel, met to review our safety plan.  Our school will remain on partial lockdown throughout the week.  All exterior doors will remain locked throughout the school day, and a Trussville police officer will remain on our campus this week.

Naturally, parents have concerns and fears.  We are thankful to have caring, interested parents who support our school and their children.  The very first email I received yesterday was from Heather Sandifer, a parent of former Paine Intermediate students who are now at HTMS.  Heather’s email was a simple, “What can I do to help you?”  Heather came to Paine Intermediate and stayed all morning, monitoring the fifth grade doors to the modulars.  Heather’s presence gave a sense of security to both teachers and students.  This type of selflessness is what we have come to expect from our parents. 

Throughout last night and today I continued to receive emails from parents like the one who said, “Just a quick note to let you know I’m praying for you, your teachers, and staff today.  I’m certain it will be a difficult day for everyone, trying to reassure frightened and confused children while trying to keep things as normal as possible. Again, I can’t tell you how thankful I am for you and the amazing teachers and faculty in our school system….men and women that I know, with confidence, will protect our children at all costs.  On a day where I truly want to keep my girls home with me and never let them out of my sight, I know that is not wise, nor healthy, and I know that I am sending them to a place that’s as safe as it can be. I will be glad to help any way that you might need me.  Once upon a time, I was a counselor, and I will be happy to step in if there is any need. Thank you for loving our kids!”

Your words of encouragement and support mean so much to our staff.  Our goal is to carefully guard the minds and bodies of all of our students.  We will continue to strive to keep them safe, while teaching them the things they need to know in order to be independent, caring citizens.