RICHMOND COUNTY, N.C. — Students head back to school in less than two weeks in Richmond County, and when they do, they may notice new safety changes.
Channel 9’s Gina Esposito learned the district created a new position focused on safety. The new face at Richmond County Schools will be Matt Thompson, the new director of Safety and Security. The position is focused on perfecting plans to protect students.
“It is my desire that I can create that sense of security here at Richmond County,” Thompson said. “This is an amazing district. It’s a safe district, but there is always something we can do to improve.”
Thompson says he’s already met with principals and the athletic director. This year, Thompson is launching a new protocol so school staff and resource officers clearly know the difference between a hold and a lockdown.
“What it is, it creates common language for schools to utilize in some type of emergency,” Thompson said.
Training on this will be critical. At the same time, students will notice physical changes in addition to the use of weapon detection system.
Students and parents attending sporting events starting this school year there will be a clear bag policy.
The district added new doors at L.J. Bell Elementary to create a barrier for any visitor trying to get near students.
“In our world right now, things happen far too often … and we want to make sure we protect them," Superintendent Joe Ferrell said. “I’m excited about it, and he has hit the ground running.”
Thompson says parents can help make improvements too.
“I serve them. I serve their children,” Thompson said, “I want to hear their concerns. I want them to be involve in the processes we’re doing.”
Thompson encourages parents to fill out a survey on school safety here.
“Like all schools, we deal with conflicts,” said Assistant Superintendent of Safety and Operations Melvin Ingram. “Oftentimes, (threats could come from) within the school or outside schools. This is a proactive approach to be able to address any and everything that may come up as it relates to safety.”
District leaders say they have confidence in Thompson who comes from a military and law enforcement background.