It escapes no one that we live in a time when gun violence has become a familiar element of our American culture. Political assassinations and mass shootings have become so frequent, they’re often relegated to a side-bar in national media. Or, in the partisan divisions of our time, elevated and exploited for the purpose of advancing an ideology. 

It’s the shootings that involve children that strike the most potent fear and intolerable grief in our collective hearts, though. Even in a closely-knit, open and friendly community like Maynard, anxieties creep in when news of another tragic event makes headlines. 

In light of this reality and recent events, The Maynard Voice reached out to Maynard School Superintendent Brian Haas to learn what measures are in place to ensure the safety of the children in our community. He was kind enough to take time from his schedule to provide the following information about what Maynard can and is doing to ensure a safe environment for our children’s optimal learning and social development. 

From Brian Haas: 

Student Awareness and Support:
Awareness of traumatic events, including shootings, can vary widely by age and grade level. Older students are generally more aware of events in their community or nationally, while younger students may be less aware unless informed by adults. Our schools provide support for students and families through counseling services, social-emotional learning programs, and access to school psychologists and adjustment counselors. These supports are in place proactively and in response to incidents to help manage anxiety, stress, and trauma.

Expression of Concerns:
Students and parents may express concerns about safety both proactively and reactively. We encourage open communication so that concerns are addressed promptly, regardless of whether they arise after a specific incident or as a general anxiety about school safety.

Safeguards and Security Measures:
Our schools have layered safety measures in place, which follow national and state guidelines for school safety. While I cannot share tactical details, these include controlled access points, secure entry procedures, staff training, and emergency communication protocols. Physical security enhancements, such as secure door locks and visitor check-in systems, have been implemented over recent years.

Training for Staff and Students:
Teachers, administrators, and support staff receive age-appropriate safety and emergency response training. This training emphasizes preparation, situational awareness, and coordinated responses with law enforcement, and it is tailored to the developmental needs of students in each grade level. Students also receive guidance on safety procedures in a developmentally appropriate way.

Collaboration with Law Enforcement:
We maintain a strong working relationship with the Maynard Police Department and other relevant agencies. These partnerships focus on preparedness, coordinated response planning, and routine safety drills. Details of tactical plans are confidential to protect the safety of students and staff.

Reassurance to Families:
While no environment can guarantee absolute safety, our schools are committed to providing a safe, supportive, and secure environment for every student. Safety planning, proactive support systems, and staff vigilance are all designed to minimize risk and ensure that students can learn in a secure environment.

We recognize the concerns families have regarding safety and take them seriously. Our goal is to create a culture of care, preparedness, and resilience while maintaining a nurturing learning environment.

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The Maynard Voice is grateful to Superintendent Haas for this information and for all the administration does to provide quality education and care to Maynard students.