SAFETY AND SECURITY MEASURES

On Monday, February 26th, the Okeechobee County School Board met with Sheriff Noel E. Stephen to discuss the safety and security issues of our children and schools. There was discussion of the plan that Governor Rick Scott has developed to increase law enforcement presence at schools, hardening facilities and providing funding for more mental health screening and services for students. The School District of Okeechobee County is supportive of these recommendations. Many of the recommendations are already in place or are being addressed locally, however, the increased funding that has been requested would allow the school district to achieve these goals quickly.

Parents and staff are encouraged to share their ideas with school administrators. Social media is monitored but a direct call of concern will receive immediate attention. If you see something, say something. Call the Sheriff’s Office, the school, the district office or the Treasure Coast Crime Stoppers hotline (1-800-273-8477) if you have information related to school safety.

Additional meetings will be held as plans progress.

The primary concern of the School Board and the Sheriff’s Office is the safety and welfare of our students and faculty.