BEAVER DAM — School may be ending for the year, but Beaver Dam Unified School District leaders say safety work continues through the summer. Superintendent Mark DiStefano said on Community Comment that summer gives the district time to review procedures, plan scenarios, consider updates and work with community partners while summer school and daily operations continue. He said safety is not limited to major threats, but includes severe weather, playground injuries, visitor access and day-to-day prevention.
DiStefano said school safety has changed significantly over the years. He said earlier approaches often centered on one-time training or beginning-of-year reminders, while current planning is more detailed and proactive. He also pointed to the district’s 2016 secure-entrance projects as an example of how schools have changed access to buildings.
The Wisconsin Department of Justice Office of School Safety says its Speak Up, Speak Out Resource Center responds confidentially to tips involving students, schools or people who may be hurting, struggling or in danger. The program allows tips online, by app, by phone or by texting SUSO to 738477.
DiStefano said families and community members play a major role by reporting concerns and maintaining relationships with schools. He said Beaver Dam has a strong school resource officer program and partnerships with local law enforcement, but school safety depends on a shared commitment from parents, students, staff and community members.
