Safety and security updates implemented in the past year at the Farmington School District have significantly enhanced the protection of students and staff. A critical aspect of these improvements involved the replacement of over 470 door locks in the district's older buildings during the summer.
Superintendent Jon Laffoon emphasized the paramount importance of student and staff safety, stating, "Our number one priority is always the safety of our students and staff. We may not always prioritize convenience, but we unwaveringly focus on ensuring the safest environment for your children." As part of these efforts, several buildings, including the junior high, middle school, and elementary buildings, had original locking mechanisms and individual keys for every door replaced with modern locks, cylinders, and key systems. Additionally, our Pre-K and Secondary Center now feature separate corridors, preventing unauthorized access to the school building, with access to the Pre-K classrooms requiring passage through a designated corridor.
Over the past four years, since assuming the role of superintendent, Laffoon introduced a staff ID badge card reader system for the district. He said badge ID scanners are now utilized in the buildings to keep doors locked. He also added two additional CSSOs to the district budget for this year. “Four staff members and two new Certified Special Security Officers (CSSOs) will undergo extensive training to become CSSOs. The school board's support for this initiative allows for the deployment of two new CSSOs on elementary campuses, providing an armed presence across all district campuses.” Laffoon underlined that these CSSOs are ready to assist in any campus emergency.
This year, traffic changes have been implemented at certain campuses' drop-off and pick-up to increase safety. Adjustments have been made to accommodate the increasing number of parents transporting students. “While we are grateful that our campuses continue to grow, these adjustments are essential to ensure the continued safe service of our students. We appreciate the patience and understanding of everyone when such modifications are necessary. The district also appreciates our board of directors support and the financial considerations used to make these additional safety upgrades,” added Laffoon.
According to Dean Campbell, the district's safety director, additional safety upgrades have taken place over the last two years. These include the installation of protective tinted window film on exterior doors and windows at the Pre-K and the new building at the junior high campus. New fencing has been added to the junior high and middle school campuses. All classrooms have a “Night Lock” door barricading system installed, and the district has augmented its supply of Narcan, an opioid overdose treatment, available on campus. Each campus now has trained first responders, School Resource Officers (SROs) or CSSOs.
Last year, the district also introduced a "SEE SOMETHING SAY SOMETHING" tip line, accessible through the school's website and QR codes within the buildings. This confidential reporting system allows students to report various incidents, including bullying, threats of suicide, threats against other students, school violence, concerns for other students, and any abuse involving alcohol or drugs. Campbell emphasized, "If you see something, say something, and you can report anonymously through this tip line without having to disclose your information."