In the wake of a deadly school shooting in Parkland, Florida, school districts in San Joaquin County and the state have taken a look into safety plans to ensure they are prepared as possible should the worst happen. The state Department of Education announced that audit requirements on school safety plans will be required beginning in the upcoming 2018-19 academic year.
Local school districts must approve safety plans for all schools in its district by the first of March of each year. Safety plans are mandatory and help ensure that schools are not only prepared for emergencies, but also maintain safe and secure learning environments. These plans also must contain clear policies to address hate crimes, acts of violence, discrimination and harassment.
