Dear Tioga Central School Community,
The recent school shooting in Florida has once again put the issue of school safety on all of our minds, especially when we stop to consider the safety of our own students here at Tioga Central. I want everyone to know that we continue to take these issues very seriously. That is why we have a comprehensive security plan in place, developed in cooperation with law enforcement, which we update regularly based on new research and recommendations. We hold regular drills with staff and students with an intense focus on improving our responses after every drill. We also are constantly looking to upgrade our facilities in ways that will harden the schools to intrusion. Some of these improvements such as hardened entrances and digitally secured perimeter doors are part of the recently approved capital project that will begin work this summer.
An equally critical part of ensuring student safety is our focus on ensuring students are supported socially and emotionally in the Tioga schools. Athletics, Music, Art, and Clubs are an important part of making sure students feel included and valued. We have embedded anti-bullying efforts throughout all grade levels as well as systems for staff to identify and respond when they see students in crisis. These programs benefit all of our students and contribute to a positive school climate which is, ultimately, one of the best preventative measures we can offer.
I wanted to let everyone, but especially our parents, know that security is a key focus of our efforts here at Tioga Central. We will continue to make sure we are doing everything possible to ensure the safety of our students now and at all times.
Sincerely,
Dr. David Hamilton
Superintendent