Fully implement the policies and practices in the School Safety Plan developed in Spring 2023

Fully implement the policies and practices in the School Safety Plan developed in Spring 2023
Fully implement the policies and practices in the School Safety Plan developed in Spring 2023

At Breck School, safety and community go hand in hand. The implementation of the Safe School Plan developed in Spring 2023 reflects a commitment to creating a secure environment while preserving Breck’s sense of openness and connection. The plan combines modern facilities, a dedicated security team, and thoughtful policies to prioritize early detection and rapid response. The Safe School Plan was shaped by a thorough security audit, which included site visits, stakeholder interviews, reviews of existing documentation, and the integration of industry best practices. This process ensured the system was tailored to meet Breck's unique needs. Please visit our website for more information on the Safe School Plan and its details.

Breck’s shift from monitored entrances to secured entrances with controlled access was a deeply collaborative process. It was not about adopting an existing system but creating one uniquely tailored to our school. Input from students, families, coaches, faculty, and staff shaped a plan that balances safety with accessibility. “We want to create reasonable friction with our Safe School plan,” said Denny Arons. “We want families to zip through with a badge, but make it challenging for someone else.” Empowering parents through personalized access badges reflects the school’s commitment to maintaining a community-driven approach while upholding security. The security team’s commitment to compassion, empathy, and excellence is evident in their daily interactions and their dedication to supporting both safety and the values that define Breck.

Locking doors is an industry-standard, and at Breck, the focus is on doing it well. With 400 cars, 28 buses, and 40 minutes of arrivals and departures each day, creating a secure and welcoming environment requires precision and care. By being highly visible during key times, the security team not only manages access but also strengthens their connection with the community. Training is another cornerstone of the plan. Even with state-of-the-art systems, a skilled and prepared team ensures smooth operations and a safe environment. Breck’s recent hosting of the regional 2024 Minnesota School Safety Council showcased the campus as a secure yet welcoming space, offering opportunities to share best practices while learning from experts in the field.

Looking ahead, Breck continues to approach safety as a dynamic part of its strategic vision. Future enhancements will include improved building access, streamlined traffic and pedestrian flow, and seamless integration of systems for admissions, guest access, and vendor management. “The catalyst of this project is getting us to think about the perimeter and how we will control flow and access to campus,” said Mike Thorson. These efforts, guided by Future Focus, reflect Breck’s dedication to ongoing improvement and its unwavering commitment to the well-being of its community.

 


 

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