School Board receives update on safety/security measures

The Webb City R-7 School Board on Tuesday received an update on security and safety in the district from Tyler Christensen, director of safety.

Christensen said in his first year he primarily followed up on a safety assessment, which among other things, recommended that the district hire a director of safety.

Now in his second year, Christensen listed a number of measures he has taken beyond the original recommendations, including making building entrances more secure.

He has overseen the installation of ballistic film on windows and doors to delay the entrance of an active shooter. And he has had more cameras installed at entrances to give those in charge of opening the door a multi-view of anyone seeking to enter.

He said he has improved communication within buildings and with the central office.

If children say they don’t feel safe at home, he said he conducts in-home visits.

When asked what he needs, Christensen said, “I wouldn’t mind having a couple more of me,” to be more visible and to interact more in the schools.

Ultimately, he said he would like the district to partner with the Jasper County Sheriff’s Department to provide school resource officers at Carterville Elementary School and the Truman campus. There are already two Webb City police SROs for the schools within Webb City.

Board member Dave Collard told Christensen, “We need these kids to be protected and we want parents to feel they’re safe.”

“I appreciate seeing you at schools,” added Board member Erin Taylor. “It makes me feel they’re safe.”

Longterm planning meeting scheduled

A special meeting on Jan. 23 was set by the board for an open discussion about facility needs in the future.

Superintendent Brenten Byrd proposed the meeting to decide “our best steps going forward.”

Josh Flora, assistant superintendent of business operations, said he’s aware some heating and air conditioning systems need to be replaced, along with roofs and asphalt.

In addition to those maintenance items, Byrd said the board can also discuss whether certain buildings should be renovated or replaced.

In other action, the board:

• Received an update about the virtual education program from Angie Broaddus, the director. There are two teachers monitoring 121 students. Some of the students are blended (virtual for some classes, in classroom for others) and some are full-time. That also includes students who are continuing their classes while they are suspended.

• Approved the request by Emma Hudson, president of FBLA at the high school, for her organization to host a Business Bash on Jan. 22, which will be attended by FBLA and DECA members from other local schools.

• Approved the contract for Sarah Hatley to be the second life skills teacher at Carterville Elementary.

• Accepted the retirement of Christa Rossetti, a process coordinator. She has been with the district for 14 years.