Belmont Middle School

In the days that have followed Monday's emergency evacuation, we have discussed as a building leadership team, school staff, and emergency response team the conditions, decision-making process, and communication that led to many challenges and a difficult situation for our students, staff, and families. I understand the frustration, confusion, and fear that resulted from how and what we messaged to families, the organization for evacuating the building, and the coordination of dismissal. 

Our review process has identified needed changes to our emergency response plan that include staff and student expectations, roles and responsibilities, and direct, consistent and transparent communication during the emergency response. Further, we will facilitate a more efficient dismissal process that supports students reaching home and/or a caregiver in a timely manner and reduces traffic congestion on campus during those critical moments. To prepare for this, we will schedule training for staff, streamline and align internal protocols, and practice our procedures with students and staff to ensure safety and organization.

As you have questions or concerns, or would like to offer feedback, I am available to meet and discuss. I continue to appreciate the ideas and care that all of our families bring to these issues of critical importance.