Jonathan Kassa. (Submitted photo)
"NPSD continues to focus resources on assessing threats, providing care, and preventing violence."
(The following is a Letter to the Editor from North Penn School Board Director Jonathan Kassa. The views expressed within are his own.)
Dear North Penn Community,
As we look forward to 2025, the Safe Schools Committee (SSC) remains dedicated to ensuring safety and well-being in our schools. A safe school environment requires year-round planning, training, and the implementation of proven strategies. A successful approach includes community-wide programs and initiatives involving parents, students, staff, school administrators, law enforcement, mental health professionals, social services, and elected officials. Reflecting this approach is the successful anonymous reporting Safe2Say Something reporting system that has increased meaningful interventions for North Penn students in crisis.
The U.S. Secret Service and U.S. Department of Education found that 93% of school shooters planned an attack in advance and their behavior provided evidence prior to an attack. When people see the warning signs and have the confidence to report, they help to prevent school shootings. Equally important to making a report is what happens to properly review and act on such info. This is why NPSD continues to focus resources on assessing threats, providing care, and preventing violence.
Dr. Nicholson, NPSD Administrator of Secondary Education and Renovations, recently presented insights and quarterly discipline data at our November 25 Safe Schools Committee. At the same meeting, as a result of the board’s request for an independent investigation following a violent incident earlier in the year, Dr. Bauer and Mr. Somers presented to the community a summary and recommendations. It is well worth the time to hear and view so many details, along with the knowledgeable context provided in both of the presentations.
Here’s what else we’ve been up to these past few months regarding school safety across North Penn School District:
On behalf of my fellow directors on the school board, thank you for your continued support in keeping our schools safe. Have a joyous holiday season and a peaceful New Year!
Jonathan M. Kassa, MPA
North Penn School District Board of Directors
Term Expiration: 2025