The Byron-Bergen Central School District is one of 136 school districts and Board of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES) in New York State to receive the Utica National lnsurance Group’s School Safety Excellence Award for 2017. District Superintendent Mickey Edwards and Junior/Senior High School Principal Patrick McGee accepted the top, titanium-level award and a $500 prize, to be used to further safety efforts, on April 21.
“This is an affirmation of all the safety and security initiatives our district has been taking,” said Edwards. “Our school resource officer recently completed a district-wide safety audit, and he has made remarkable personal connections with our students and staff. Our culture includes the Olweus Bullying Prevention Program and regular character building events and activities at all grade levels.
“We have implemented a number of measures, including the New York State Sheriff’s Association (NYSSA) Rapid Responder® Program, an all-hazards site-based crisis management system, and a large security camera system that oversees buildings and grounds. Current security also includes a comprehensive visitor management system in all schools that is used for visitor background checks and ID badges.”
“Providing a safe and secure learning environment for our students, teachers, staff and visitors is our first priority,” he said. “We are honored to receive this recognition.”
The School Safety Excellence Award Program has three levels – titanium, platinum and gold – and annual awards are given based on quantifiable measurements of excellence in categories that include bullying prevention programs, playground safety, and other areas.
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