Coventry Public Schools Home

Communication Best Practices

 

 

hexagon with text collective & individual identity

 

Continue research and refinement concerning best practices in communication about school threats.

Schools - All Schools

Action Steps

  • Collaborate with the District Security Specialist for review of procedures and ongoing staff training.  
  • Conduct safety drills with the guidance of Coventry Fire Dept.

Initiative Achievement

students sitting for presentation in gym

This school year, the district continued to prioritize school safety through the ongoing refinement of procedures, enhanced staff training, and strengthened collaboration with the police and fire departments. Across all schools, efforts focused on improving preparedness, ensuring consistent implementation of protocols, and enhancing communication related to safety concerns.

At the Coventry Grammar School (CGS), significant progress was made in strengthening safety systems and communication practices. In collaboration with the District Security Specialist, the school reviewed and refined procedures and provided ongoing staff training to ensure clarity of roles and responsibilities in responding to safety concerns. Regular safety drills, conducted in partnership with the Coventry Fire and Police Departments, supported preparedness and continuous improvement. The establishment of a Safety, Security, and Climate Committee comprised of staff, parents, and district leadership provided a structured forum to review procedures, analyze school climate data, and monitor progress on the School Climate Improvement Plan. These efforts have contributed to improved coordination, transparency, and a strong focus on prevention, response, and communication.

At the G.H. Robertson School (GHR), school safety remains a central focus. Fire and lockdown drills are conducted in coordination with local emergency services, and the school’s Crisis Team meets quarterly to review and update protocols. Staff received additional training aligned with findings from the recent Connecticut Interlocal Risk Management Agency (CIRMA) audit, reinforcing best practices related to building security, including visitor management and technology use. The school building was used to host a training exercise with the Capitol Region Emergency Services Team (CREST), providing first responders with increased familiarity with the building. Ongoing initiatives, such as “Lunch with a Cop,” further strengthen partnerships with local law enforcement and promote a positive school climate.

At the Capt. Nathan Hale School (CNH) safety protocols were reviewed with all staff at the start of the school year, including guidance aligned to the CIRMA audit. The school’s Crisis Team meets regularly to maintain readiness, and all required safety drills are conducted in accordance with established schedules. Following each drill, staff engage in debriefing sessions to identify strengths and areas for improvement, ensuring a continuous cycle of reflection and refinement.

At Coventry High School (CHS), staff participated in a comprehensive review of safety procedures during a faculty meeting, including an overview of the CIRMA audit presented by the District Security Specialist. Ongoing Crisis Team meetings and adherence to required fire and lockdown drill schedules ensure continued preparedness and alignment with district expectations.

Collectively, these efforts reflect a cohesive, district-wide approach to school safety that emphasizes proactive planning, strong partnerships with local emergency responders, continuous staff training, and clear, consistent communication systems to support safe and secure learning environments for all students and staff.