National Preparedness Month is recognized each September to raise awareness about the importance of preparing for disasters and emergency situations that could happen at any time. Throughout the month, we will share information on how the district prepares for and responds to emergencies, as well as some important tips and resources for families. If you have any questions or feedback, please reach out to the Operational Excellence Safety Team via Let's Talk.
Familiarize Yourself with the District’s Safety Procedures
Last week we shared an overview of how our district prepares for emergencies. Families and staff are encouraged to review this information annually.
Additional resources:
- “I Love U Guys” Standard Response Protocols
- District 97 Emergency Closing Information
- Safety Resources for Families
Stay Informed
In the event of an emergency, District 97 will use email, texts and/or robocalls to share updates as quickly as possible. Here are a couple of tips to ensure that you receive all communication:
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Keep your contact information information up-to-date
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Families: The district utilizes phone numbers and email addresses provided during registration. If you need to update your contact information, please call your school office.
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Staff: Emergency contact lists are created using the district’s payroll system, iVisions. Staff should confirm or update phone numbers at the start of every school year.
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Opt in to receive text messages
To receive texts, send YES to 79041 or 87569 (if you opt into one number, it applies to both). Once you opt in, BrightArrow will send you a confirmation text.
During an Emergency
If a safety situation arises at one of our schools, we will share updates as quickly as possible, while prioritizing the safety of our students and staff. To support our emergency response:
- Please avoid calling or going to the school. We understand the desire for information or access to your children when a situation arises. However, it is important for phone lines to stay open for emergency personnel, and that school staff remain focused on our safety procedures. Additionally, coming to the school can unintentionally create traffic jams that block emergency response vehicles. Families should remain vigilant and wait for updates regarding next steps.
- If your child texts or calls you, please keep them calm and instruct them to follow the school’s safety procedures.
Make a Family Plan and Talk to Your Child
Families are encouraged to talk to students about the importance of school safety and drills using age-appropriate language. Children should know the basics about what to do in emergencies, including where to go and how to communicate. Below are some helpful resources for families:
- Village of Oak Park - Emergency Preparedness
- “Disasters and Your Family: Be Prepared” (HealthyChildren.org)
- “Talking to Kids about School Safety” (Mental Health America)
Safe Gun Storage
Gun violence is a public health crisis. District 97 is partnering with the Oak Park Department of Public Health (OPDPH) to address this crisis by reminding residents that safe storage is a simple action a gun owner can take to reduce access to guns among young people, keeping children and families in our community safe. CLICK HERE to visit the village's webpage about safe firearm storage, which includes:
- Information about obtaining free gun locks;
- Conversation starters for parents;
- Materials from the Be SMART campaign. The campaign’s message is:
- By Securing all firearms,
- Modeling responsible behavior,
- Asking about unsecured firearms in friends’ and family members’ homes,
- Recognizing the role of firearms in suicide and
- Telling others about these strategies, we can prevent gun deaths and injuries in our community.
Series adapted from Downers Grove School District 58.