CAIS

As we collect the cards our students are making for Qu Gu primary school in Sichuan, it brings to mind our own preparedness for emergencies. One could come in the form of a natural disaster like an earthquake or fire, or something on a smaller scale like an intruder. Even though the probability of such an event may be small, it is important we be prepared.

On Tuesday, October 14 we will hold the annual check of our emergency notification system. Over the next two weeks you will be given more information on the emergency notification test. We ask that everyone review the emergency procedures on pages 26-28 of the 2008-2009 Family Handbook for more information. Some general information is provided below.

Many of you may have been on campus when we have our monthly building evacuation drills. While the most obvious part of the drill is very evident, having everyone evacuate in a quick and orderly fashion, there is quite a bit that goes on behind the scenes.

At the start of each year the teachers and staff are re-familiarized with the building emergency procedures for evacuation, earthquakes and other emergencies. Radios are provided in all classrooms for emergency use. When there is an evacuation or lockdown, teachers turn their radios on and listen for instructions or give reports. Radios are also monitored by administrators throughout the day in case teachers need some immediate assistance.

NCIS provides essential support for emergencies. This includes preparation as well as active support during any event. At the present time the building has a three day supply of food and water as well as emergency power generation capability and first aid materials. During an event, NCIS staff provides direct assistance for all building occupants. In the case of a building evacuation, for example, NCIS ensures the building is cleared and assists any persons who are not able to evacuate on their own.

NCIS also provides security stations in three locations of the school. These include the front Oak Street entrance, the gym entrance, and the Hickory Street entrance. In addition, sixteen cameras help in our surveillance efforts. NCIS is constantly working with CAIS and French American to ensure we provide a safe and secure campus, even during an emergency.

Families are notified during emergencies through School Reach, a service that assists schools when they are trying to reach parents for a variety of reasons, including emergencies. During an emergency we will contact families via phone and email using the information in our database. In order for us to have accurate information in case of emergencies, it is important that you keep your contact information up-to-date.

We maintain family contact information on a secure server at School Reach, which is located in Montana. Pre-scripted and recorded messages are saved that we can initiate through email or phone messages. We can also easily change or add messages to relay instructions to families on such topics as whether you should come to pick up your children or you should stay away from school, depending on the circumstances. For more information on School Reach, check their website at www.schoolreach.com.

Maintaining a safe and secure campus is a priority for all of us. We accomplish this through a team effort that includes our own staff and teachers, NCIS staff, students, and parents. Thank you for your continued support of these efforts. And remember, keep that contact information current!