Dayton Rotary Club Learns About Safe and Secure Schools

The Dayton Rotary Club had the opportunity to hear, watch, and ask questions to some local law enforcement officers about safety protocols and training in the Dayton ISD schools. Superintendent Dr. Jessica Johnson introduced Harris County Precinct #3 officers (Officer J. D Davis and Officer Earnest Howard) who brought the main part of the program. They discussed in detail various safety measures that are required by the state along with additional processes that DISD have implemented over the last several years. They thanked the Dayton Rotary Club along with CrimeStoppers for sponsoring the barricades that have been installed in each classroom throughout the district. The officers explained the various drills that are on-going throughout the school year. The hot topic was the recent Uvalde ISD incident. “This week, our officers, DPS and some local Dayton PD officers had a two-day active shooter training at Wilson Jr. High. It has been in the works for several months and was an intense training for all officers,” stated Officer Davis. Four DISD administrators were invited to attend and be observants during the training- Mr Travis Young, Mrs. Tami Pierce, Mrs. Nelly Tinkle, and Dr. Johnson. Rotarian Ken Defoor, also discussed the history of certain types of school safety drills and protocols throughout the years. Many of the Rotarians had questions about the safety of students and staff. Officer Davis, Officer Howard along with the DISD administrators addressed their questions over various topics including safety cameras (both inside and outside the school buildings), intruder alert drills, safety vestibules, partnership with Harris County Dept. of Education with training for Safe and Secure Schools Program, doors which are protected by badge entry along with a great partnership between Dayton PD and Liberty County Sheriff’s department.

The topic of COVID and its impact upon students and their mental health and wellness was raised. DISD administrators spoke over the social emotional learning/mental health/emotional wellness support on every campus through various curriculums and programs. The club was glad to hear that the DISD Board just recently approved the district’s third social emotional mental counselor.

The Dayton Rotary Club members expressed their appreciation for all first responders and the safety procedures and protocols that Dayton ISD has implemented.