January 14, 2013
JACKSON, Miss. – The Mississippi Department of Education is currently evaluating its policies and procedures as it works to expand current efforts in supporting a safe school environment.
Since the tragedy in Newtown, Conn., the MDE has been communicating with school superintendents about the importance of school safety. Dr. Lynn House, interim state superintendent of education, said the department is exploring every opportunity to foster collaboration and to promote the development of sound policies to support a safe environment that is conducive to learning.
“We appreciate the work of Lt. Gov. Reeves and other elected officials who are working to make sure our schools are safe learning environments. We share their concerns and that’s why the MDE is looking at an array of possibilities to enhance our school safety policies and procedures,” she said.
Some changes under consideration include a more stringent link between accreditation requirements and school safety issues, additional safety assessments, and additional safety training for superintendents, principals, counselors and teachers.
“We also will work to identify additional strategies to work collaboratively with our partners, including law enforcement officials and mental health professionals,” House said.
Media Contact:
Patrice Guilfoyle, APR
Director of Communications
601-359-3706
Jean Cook, APR
Communications Specialist
601-359-3519