Dear D53 Families and Staff:
In light of the horrific and tragic events that occurred in Uvalde, Texas earlier this week, we wanted to jointly address our District 53 families and staff on the partnership between our school district and local law enforcement agency as well as enhanced physical safety and security measures.
Our number one priority remains unchanged - the safety and security of our children, staff, and families.
District 53 and Oak Brook Police Department have been proactive in our crisis planning efforts, crisis response protocols, and physical enhancements to safety and security measures within the school buildings. Together our two organizations collaborate on the annual review of our Crisis Response and School District Safety Plans, conduct safety drills with and without our students in the building, and continue to meet regularly throughout the year.
Building upon the physical safety and security measures already deployed throughout our school buildings within classrooms and offices, the district's Capital Vision Improvement Project prioritizes safe and secure vestibules and entrances to our school buildings.
Further, the District 53 Department of Buildings and Grounds and Oak Brook Police Department collaborate with the DuPage Regional Office of Education through professional development, conferences dedicated to school safety and threat assessments, as well as sharing best practices among colleagues from across the state.
We continue to strive for unity within our community and we are mutually grateful for the partnership between the school district and police department. The Oak Brook Police Department has a visible presence within our buildings on a weekly basis and participates in many school events, including today's D.A.R.E. graduation at Brook Forest Elementary.
This week, you have likely noticed enhanced visibility and presence at both District 53 school buildings by the Oak Brook Police Department, who will continue to provide an additional layer of security at all of the district's end of the year events and celebrations.
In closing, we would like to thank the dedicated members of the Oak Brook Police Department and committed faculty and staff of District 53 for their continued investment in safeguarding our students, their families, and each other.
Dr. Paul O'Malley
Superintendent of Schools
Benjamin Kadolph
Division Commander