Safety & Security

Vance County Schools is committed to the safety of its students, staff, and visitors to our schools. While the district does not publicly share detailed safety plans, every school has safety measures. These plans are reviewed periodically and updated as necessary. Schools practice the drills through lockdown and emergency drills in collaboration with local police, fire, and other emergency agencies.

In addition to emergency response plans, the district has other safety measures in place to create a positive learning environment, some of which include the following:

• The presence of sworn police officers who work as School Resource Officers in our secondary schools through an agreement with Vance County Sheriff's Office. This supports safety efforts and builds partnerships with students, parents, and staff.
• An entry system that requires visitors to be buzzed in, with staff having access through key cards.
• Security monitoring is in place throughout the district.
• Ongoing safety and emergency training for all staff.
• School visitor sign-in procedures require guests to scan an ID and wear a visitor's badge.
• Use of the district's mass notification system to contact families during an emergency to provide updates.

While technology enhances our ability to provide a safe learning environment for our students, we are also committed to the human relationship as a critical role. Each school has access to a counselor, nurse, and social worker as a support system. We want students to feel comfortable reporting concerns to the trusted adults within each building.

These plans are vital in ensuring our district is taking steps toward ensuring safety for our students, staff, and visitors in our buildings.