Dear Parents:
As you know, the Homeland Security Advisory System has fluctuated
between High Alert status (Orange) and Elevated Alert status (Yellow)
recently. Ongoing concerns about terrorist threats and impending
war have caused President George W. Bush to warn Americans to be
increasingly vigilant.
The Freeport Public Schools are well prepared to respond to any
activity that potentially compromises the safety and well-being
of our students and staff. In fact, over the past year, we have
taken numerous steps to prepare for crisis situations, such as
conducting drills at schools and meeting regularly with the Freeport
Police Department. Since the declaration of High Alert status (Orange),
we have been in regular contact with local, county and state authorities
regarding further emergency preparedness.
One step we have taken is to suspend all field trips off of Long
Island. As you will recall, this is an action we have taken several
times since September 11, 2001. However, we are considering on
a case-by-case basis all trips that have already been planned and
paid for, as well as any future requests. At the end of the month,
we will review the suspension.
In order for our children to feel safe and secure, it is essential
that parents work closely with schools. In the case of an emergency,
parents are important partners in our efforts to provide security
for all of our children and staff. Please contact your child’s
school and make sure that all contact information, medical information,
and emergency contact information is up to date, including contact
information of individuals to whom your child may be released.
In the
event of an emergency during the day, your child’s
safety is of the utmost importance to school personnel. School
staff have been trained and are prepared. We are confident in our
level of preparedness and we will continue to be proactive in our
efforts to ensure the safety and security of all student and staff
by constantly reviewing and improving procedures.
You might want to consider taking the time to talk to your child
about how your family will respond in the event of an emergency.
Some agencies that provide useful information are:
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-
Food and Drug Administration
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(301) 443-1240 |
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- Federal Emergency Management Agency
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Please
know that we are carefully monitoring all of the information
that comes from local, county, state and national sources. We
will
continue to update you regarding any changes or pertinent issues.
Please contact your child’s school with any questions and/or
concerns. We appreciate your support and cooperation.
Sincerely,
Eric L. Eversley, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
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Board
Members 
