My Interview with Assistant Principal, Mrs. Verdone

Interview date: Thursday, March 13, 2003

1) How are you involved with the Westlake security policy?

I served on a district committee this year in which we reviewed our current Emergency Action/Disaster plan and made minor revisions. I work with the Principal, Mr. Bregar, to ensure that our students and staff practice the necessary drills to ensure that all Parkside students and staff are aware of what to do in case of an emergency.

2) What kinds of drills and security procedures does the Westlake School District require for the schools?

There are fire drills, tornado drills and lockdown drills. Lockdown drills are to prepare the school in the case of an intruder coming into our building.

3) Did the 9/11 terrorist attacks change the security policy?

Yes, we’ve looked more closely at our intruder plans, and we make sure that all schools practice lockdown drills.

4) Have any more drills been added to the policy recently?

No, we planned lockdown drills before 9/11.

5) Can you explain the security policy of the Westlake City Schools?

Our plans are very extensive. We try to consider the provisions to keep students safe and for the most conceivable, or possible emergencies or situations.

6) Do you have a written copy of the Westlake City School District that I could use for my website?

No. The security policy must be kept secure and only in the hands of those who need to execute the plan. However, each classroom has an emergency response flip chart for all teachers to review and carry out in the case of the specific emergencies.