As tensions and security concerns rise at college campuses around the country in response to the war in Israel, among other world events, officials recently detailed the safety plans used by Newton Public Schools (NPS) for emergencies closer to home.
“We’re seeing that some things that are occurring overseas [are reverberating] right here in our own city,” said Police Chief John Carmichael during last week’s Zoom meeting.
Toby Romer, assistant superintendent of secondary education and special programs, led the meeting, emphasizing that communication, preparedness, and speed are key elements to the schools’ Emergency Operations Plan.
“Cutting down that response time” is essential, said Romer.
According to the slide presentation shown during the meeting, regular safety drills are important not only to practice what to do, but to get feedback from school staff and other City officials on what worked and what may need improvement. Drills are tailored for students in different grades, and teachers are given age-appropriate scripts and posters. Families are notified of when some drills will take place.
Romer added that afterschool and sports programs that use the buildings have access to the safety training and materials used by school staff.
Fire safety law requires the schools to hold four evacuation drills annually. In addition, NPS holds two focusing on lockdown/hostile events and two practicing bus evacuations.
The schools have “a very robust safety plan,” said Fire Lt. Michael White during the meeting.
The “Core Emergency Responses” include:
- Evacuation: “Get out, stay out” – the response to a fire or similar internal danger.
- Shelter in place: “Stay inside, stay safe” – the response to a security threat outside the school.
- Lockdown: “Silent and invisible” – the response to a security threat inside the school.
- Hostile event response: “Run, hide, fight” – the response to an active shooter or other armed act of violence.
Romer emphasized that in addition to drills, daily activities — like building trusting relationships, addressing bullying, strengthening communication, and even simple acts like making sure doors are locked — contribute to safer schools.
“We’ve drastically reduced access to the buildings,” said Romer, adding that while high school students have open campus, meaning they can leave and return, the school doors are locked. Instead, students have to use codes and staff have badges to enter. “We have secure buildings,” he said.
Asked during the question-and-answer segment of the meeting whether NPS ever considered hiring armed guards, Romer replied, “That’s not part of our vision.”
According to the presentation, 14 of the 22 school buildings have security cameras and others will be added in the future.
The NPS Emergency Operations Plan was created in 2019, and materials were revised this year. According to the presentation, the plan was made in collaboration with Newton Police, Fire, Health and Human Services, the Newton Teachers Association, and outside consultant Preparedness, LLC.