Safety and Security features in place at all McMinn County schools include:

• Controlled access with one point of entry for visitors during the school day

  • All but one front door remains locked

  • Visitors must enter the front office to gain access to the rest of the building

  • A second interior door must be opening electronically by staff

• Full-time school resource officers at all school campuses

  • Officers are armed at all times

  • Officers are highly trained by the McMinn County Sheriff’s Department in collaboration with the McMinn County School District

• Security cameras inside and outside schools provide live access to needed personnel in case of an emergency

• Regular safety drills and training for staff

  • School lock-down drills each year

  • Joint drills on campus with police and fire

• Emergency Operation Plans and teams at each campus

  • The school district, as well as each school, has an Emergency Operations Plan, which has been created in a collaborative effort by School Administrators, the McMinn County Emergency Planner, the Sheriff’s Department and local fire departments.

• Criminal background checks on all employees, volunteers and contrators who work on School District property.

• STOPit anonymous online tip-line for students, parents, teachers and others to share concerns

• Annual Safety Assessment of each school

• Automated External Defibrillator (AEDs) provided at each school

• Epi-Pens or epinephrine (used to treat severe allergic reactions) available

• Comprehensive guidance and counseling program

• Focus on the whole child includes support for students’ mental, social and physical needs