Letter: Safety first at U-CF

Posted by ChaddsFordLive on December 17, 2016

The administration and staff have no higher priority than the safety of our children. We hope to never have to deal with emergency situations – but we train and prepare in the event that the unforeseen happens. Today we experienced one of those events – while we are relieved that there was not a bomb and this was a hoax – we know that there were anxious and stressful moments for everyone. We should all take pride and comfort in the fact that our students and staff were equipped to cope with the challenges presented to us today.

This morning a student reported to administration that there was a bomb threat written on a bathroom stall at Unionville High School. The building administration immediately contacted the police who were on site within moments. In working with law enforcement the decision to evacuate the building was made. Bomb-sniffing Chester County K-9s along with their human partners were able to determine that there was no bomb, no incendiary materials, and no danger to our students and staff.

Today’s event is a reminder of our need to be vigilant and prepared at all times. We will evaluate today’s procedures and work to improve our processes so that we always have the safest possible environment for students and staff.

The greatest strength of UCF is our community. Today we all saw strength, dedication, cooperation, and connection combine to keep everyone safe.

I appreciate the quick decisions and professional actions of the staff. I appreciate the calmness and resiliency of our students. I appreciate your support via messages all day. UCF is committed to being the best-prepared district for everything that impacts our students.

When you speak to your children over the weekend I hope you will reassure them that our schools are safe because their bus drivers, teachers, administrators and everyone else at UCF are ready and prepared. We have exemplary staff in every building ready to answer the call.