School Safety is a priority for CMS

The sale of firearms nationwide has almost doubled since the start of the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic. firearms were the leading cause of death for children and teens in 2020, surpassing injuries from vehicle crashes, drug overdoses or cancer. Having said this, the district encourages families to secure and to lock up all firearms. North Carolina state law imposes criminal penalties on adults when a child gains unsupervised access to unsecured firearms. In order to continue with preventative measures to increase student and school safety, adults should store firearms securely.

CMS has installed weapon detection systems for K-8, middle, and high schools since the 2021-22 school year. The weapon detection systems, along with multiple safety strategies, demonstrates the district’s overall commitment to providing a secure school environment where students can thrive academically, socially and emotionally. The installation of weapon detection systems has proven to be effective in deterring and reducing the number of weapons in our schools. In order to maintain efficient entry into school and reduce the number of searches, please ensure that items such as metal 3-ring binders and metal frame backpacks are not purchased as supplies for student use.

As part of being a community, CMS has implemented the Say Something Anonymous Reporting System. All students in grades 4-12 receive training on the what, why, and how to make an anonymous report. Families are also encouraged to utilize Say Something to report any unsafe behavior including threats to self or others. Let’s all be a part of the solution in keeping our schools safe by utilizing the Say Something Anonymous Reporting System.

For more information about safety in CMS, the 24Safe campaign, and available resources, visit the CMS Safety at: https://www.cmsk12.org/Page/725