Dear RISD Parents, Students and Staff:
Given yesterday’s tragedy at Virginia Tech University, I feel it’s an appropriate time to remind our students, parents and community of the comprehensive safety and security protocols RISD has in place to prevent, mitigate, and address emergency situations.
Please be assured that the safety of students and staff is our first priority, and the district takes this obligation very seriously.
RISD campus and district staff work proactively with the Richardson and Dallas Police Departments to maintain a safe environment on our campuses. This cooperative effort includes the thorough investigation of any and all potential threats to the safety of students or staff.
In the event a potential threat is ever determined to be credible by district or law enforcement officials, RISD will immediately take steps to ensure the safety of students and staff, and relay the information to our community in the timeliest manner possible.
That said, we understand that a primary line of defense against acts of school violence is fostering a sense of mutual respect and understanding in each of our school communities, something we work hard to do each day. Such an environment helps to defuse situations before they escalate into emergencies.
If emergencies of any type do occur, diligent planning and communication are essential. Accordingly, the district has a comprehensive emergency management plan, and each campus has a specific emergency action plan. Both plans address multiple scenarios.
Though our world continues to change, I want to again share with you RISD’s complete commitment to providing your children a secure, safe place to receive the outstanding education they expect and deserve.
If you would like more information, or have a specific question about safety preparedness at your child’s campus, please contact your principal or RISD’s Safety and Security Coordinator, Luther Robertson, at luther.robertson@risd.org or 469-593-0083.
Thank you for entrusting us as a partner in your child’s education and well-being.
Sincerely,
