Increased Security Measures at Irmo High School

News Summary

In response to recent safety threats, Irmo High School has implemented significant security changes, including increased personnel, weapon detection at entry points, and a new focus on student support. Principal Dr. Kaaren Hampton emphasizes safety, as law enforcement investigates troubling graffiti and students voice concerns over safety issues. A new ‘school within a school’ model aims to support students with behavioral challenges while stricter compliance measures are enforced. With a notable rise in disciplinary referrals, the school is prioritizing a safe environment for all.

Extra Security Measures at Irmo High School Following Threats

In the town of Irmo, significant changes are taking place at Irmo High School as the school responds to recent safety concerns. On Thursday, additional security was put into action after a report came in the night before. The report raised alarms about troubling graffiti found in a bathroom stall at the school, which was reported through the STOPit app.

Safety First

Principal Dr. Kaaren Hampton made sure to communicate with parents, highlighting that the school takes the safety and well-being of students and staff very seriously. While the specific details of the graffiti have not been shared, law enforcement is currently investigating the situation to ensure that everyone is safe.

Increased Security Presence

As a precautionary measure, the campus has seen a notable increase in security personnel. Students now have to go through weapon detection screeners as they enter the school. This extra step aims to create a safer learning environment for everyone involved. Additionally, all students and staff members are encouraged to report any safety concerns to a trusted adult or make use of the STOPit app.

Educators Responding to Concerns

In light of recent events, school district officials have announced plans to revise safety and teaching protocols at Irmo High School. This decision comes after a series of disturbances, including protests led by students who voiced their concerns over safety issues like fighting and sexual harassment.

Families can expect to see an increased police presence, with new strategies for maintaining security on campus. Superintendent Akil Ross has recognized the need for additional support and has committed to hiring four new team members, which include a math and science teacher along with two counselors to assist students.

A New Approach to Student Behavior

The school is introducing a “school within a school” model, focusing on providing tailored support for students dealing with behavioral or emotional challenges. This innovative approach aims to help students avoid being expelled or suspended and instead offers a path towards positive development.

Stricter Compliance Measures

To ensure adherence to rules, every student must now have proper identification and must either be in class or have a pass to be out of the classroom. This new protocol aims to tighten security and keep track of students throughout the school day.

Recent Unrest and Future Plans

The school even transitioned to virtual learning on February 7 and 8 while reviewing the situation after student protests erupted on February 4. Discussions between Superintendent Ross and student leaders addressed incidents involving sexual harassment, with order being restored after a brief chaos.

Parents have expressed that the safety concerns might stem from students returning from alternative schools focused on behavioral issues. Meanwhile, some members of the community are voicing their worries about the workload and stress levels of teachers and staff given the current challenges.

Increased Support Services

In an effort to improve the school environment, more clinical counselors and “expectation coaches” will be made available to all students. New disciplinary protocols will ensure that all students carry their IDs and school policies are enforced strictly.

Innovative Initiatives on the Horizon

As part of the school’s commitment to enhancing student support, additional security cameras are being installed along with bolstering the security team. A new initiative named “the Nest” is set to provide a safe space for students facing behavioral challenges, aiming to handle disciplinary incidents more effectively.

Staggering Statistics

The need for these measures is underscored by the school’s recent spike in disciplinary referrals, which have reached a staggering 2,525 processed cases, with 60 still pending. This marks an alarming 200% increase compared to the previous year. Schools are responding swiftly, prioritizing the creation of a supportive and safe atmosphere for everyone within the walls of Irmo High School.