We continue our special series with Russell County Schools Superintendent Michael Ford as students prepare to return to the classroom on Wednesday, August 12. Today’s report focuses on school safety, security and helping students get ready for the new school year.
When asked what steps are being taken to keep students safe, Ford says Russell County Schools is fortunate to have a School Resource Officer assigned to every school, thanks to strong partnerships with local city and county governments. He notes that’s still something many school districts across Kentucky do not have.
Ford says the district has also updated its state-required active shooter training, with all school employees participating before students return. He says the training not only strengthens emergency preparedness but also gives staff an opportunity to interact with and build relationships with their School Resource Officers.
In addition to physical security, Ford says the district continues to invest in technology designed to protect students. Russell County Schools monitors activity on its internet network and school-issued devices. If a student enters threatening language or there are signs of a potential mental health concern, designated school officials are immediately notified so they can respond, offer assistance or take preventive action.
Ford emphasizes that student safety remains the district’s highest priority and encourages parents, students and community members to report any safety concern, no matter how small, so it can be addressed promptly.
We also asked Superintendent Ford what students and parents can do over the next few weeks to prepare for the start of school.
Teachers will report back to work on Tuesday, August 11, with students returning to class on Wednesday, August 12. WJRS News will continue its back-to-school series with Superintendent Michael Ford in the coming days as the start of the new school year draws closer.