Student safety constant concern in Beauregard schools
Parents take safety at schools for granted, but schools don’t.
That conclusion came through again and again during segments of a Saturday morning program devoted to people learning how to fee safe when sending their child to school.
The program was sponsored by the Beauregard Baptist Association Women’s Missions & Ministry and featured discussions with educators and community leaders.
Safety of students, staff and even the visiting public is part of the daily track of looking and listening at Beauregard schools, according to Supt. Tim Cooley.
He reviewed the various drills that the schools conduct, review the Safe School Manual newly developed and placed in every classroom.
“Safety is a learning process for all of us everyday,” Cooley said.
Director of Transportation Steve Newsom reviewed the extension training drivers have before they even start on routes.
“A safe transportation system depends on the the public, and parents are doing a good job of talking to they kids about how to get on the bus and get off,” he said.
A worrisome part of his job are the daily calls he said he received from drivers about vehicles illegally passing buses as they prepare to stop or are stopped. “Back off, slow down and be prepared to stop,” he urged motorists.
Instructional Supervisor Ellis Spikes said the system’s approach is “every student matters” and, he said, safety is a primary consideration in every activity.
DeRidder Police Chief John Gott talked about the role of school resource and DARE officers. He said the objective of the resource program is to “keep school issues at the school and out of the court system” whenever possible.
“Our officers in the schools (city and sheriff) are post-certified officers. They know how to deal with and diffuse issues and are positive role models,” Gott said.
District Judge Martha O’Neal, a product of the Beauregard schools and a former School Board member, pointed to help available before troubled youngsters get to her courtroom.
Her remarks touched on bullying, which “we know is out there” and which “is not to be tolerated.”
She and family counselor Marty Romero urged parents to be alert for symptoms of children being haunted or taunted through social media.
Romero recommended parents obtain KnowBullying, a free application for their smartphone or computer that will help their in the communication process.
A panel of principals — Harry Hooker, DeRidder High; David Wentzel, DeRidder Jr. High; Alanna Bradford, East Beauregard Elementary; Donnie Love, Merryville High; and Tammy Crain, South Beauregard High — answered questions. In summary, they and their schools take student safety seriously; it is easier to get gold from Fort Knox than to get a child from their school without proper, verifiable identity and information; they want parents involved in their schools.