A Message from our District Administrator
Dear Parents and Community Members,
At the Hortonville Area School District, the safety and well-being of our students are our top priorities. We recognize that maintaining a secure and nurturing school environment requires a collective effort involving not only our dedicated staff but also our students and their families. As we progress through this school year, we want to remind everyone of the comprehensive safety measures we have in place and the vital role each of us plays in upholding these standards.
Comprehensive Safety Components
Our district is committed to creating a safe school environment through a multifaceted approach that integrates various professionals and programs:
- Social Workers and Mental Health Professionals: Our school social workers and mental health professionals are here to support students’ emotional and psychological well-being. They provide counseling, crisis intervention, and resources to help students navigate personal and academic challenges.
- School Resource Officers (SROs): Our SROs are law enforcement officers assigned to our schools to ensure a safe learning environment. They work closely with students and staff to foster positive relationships and address safety concerns.
- School Psychologists: Our school psychologists conduct assessments, provide counseling, and work with teachers and parents to support students' mental health and learning needs.
- Mental Health Programming: We offer a variety of mental health programs designed to build resilience and promote emotional well-being among students. These programs include workshops, peer support groups, and educational resources.
- School Administrators: Our school administrators oversee safety protocols, coordinate with local authorities, and ensure that our safety policies are effectively implemented and followed.
Visitor Management System
To enhance our security measures, we utilize a state-of-the-art Visitor Management System. This system screens all visitors against the National Sex Offender Database before granting access to our school buildings. This added layer of security helps us ensure that only authorized individuals are permitted entry.
Safety Protocols and Reporting
In addition to these safety measures, we rely on our entire school community to adhere to and support safety protocols:
- Locked Doors: It is essential to keep all doors locked to prevent unauthorized access. Please remind your child to report any unlocked doors or suspicious activity to a staff member immediately.
- Reporting Concerns: If students or staff notice anything concerning or unusual, it is crucial to report it promptly to school administrators or our SROs. Early reporting can help us address potential issues before they escalate.
Responsible Online Behavior
In today’s digital age, online safety is as important as physical security. We remind students to think carefully before posting any personal information or sharing details online. Online posts are taken seriously and can have real-world implications. Encouraging students to practice responsible online behavior helps create a safer virtual environment.
A Team Effort
The safety of our students is a shared responsibility. By working together—through vigilant observation, responsible behavior, and open communication—we can create a safe and supportive environment where all students can thrive.
Thank you for your continued support and commitment to our school community. If you have any questions or concerns about our safety protocols or would like more information about the resources available, please do not hesitate to reach out to your child’s school.
Warm regards,
Todd Timm