Students learn best when they feel safe, supported and respected. That commitment is at the heart of Kalama’s Safety & Dignity for All guiding principle, which calls for schools built on trust, accountability, empathy and mutual respect.
Safety was also one of the priorities community members helped bring to the forefront when Kalama developed its Strategic Plan. School safety and security emerged as one of three major themes, alongside academic achievement and preparing students for the future.
During Year 1, Kalama took several steps to strengthen both physical safety and the support staff provided to students during difficult moments.
Paraeducators and several elementary staff members completed de-escalation training through Ukeru, equipping them with additional tools to prevent and reduce conflict, support students in crisis, and maintain safe learning environments.
The district’s counseling team also provided growth-mindset training, reinforcing resilience, perseverance and the idea that challenges can be opportunities for learning and growth.
Kalama also installed a visitor management system at each school’s front desk, establishing a consistent process for screening and tracking visitors, volunteers and contractors.
Together, these efforts support both sides of Safety & Dignity for All: creating secure schools while ensuring students are met with care, consistency and respect when they need support.
School safety is about more than a single system or training. It means creating schools where students feel supported, stay connected to learning, and know that the adults around them are prepared to help when challenges arise.