New Security Measures for Radnor Schools, Info on Student Assistance Programs

The Radnor Township School District Board of School Directors unanimously approved several new school and district safety and security measures at its Feb. 26 meeting. The soon-to-be implemented upgrades include the installation of intercom “buzz-in” systems at the entrances of Radnor Middle School and Ithan, Radnor and Wayne Elementary schools, the installation of a shatter-resistant panel at the Radnor High School entrance security window, and the stationing of an additional crossing guard at Louella and Windermere avenues at the entrance of Radnor Middle School.

The new safety and security measures were formally recommended by Leo Bernabei, the District’s director of operations, at the Feb. 12 Facilities Committee meeting. Some safety additions have already been implemented, such as the installation of doorbells at the Wayne Elementary School modular classrooms, additional closed circuit cameras and the assignment of electronic school building access devices to police on duty. The District Attorney’s office has also been contacted for countywide installation of panic alarms.

Other new safety steps will be: assigning additional staff to monitor school entry points, updating crisis procedure resources, reviewing public address systems and expanding staff training. 

Student Assistance Program

Also at the Feb. 26 meeting, Kevin Kane, the District’s director of student services, and Dorothy Lowery, the District’s crisis counselor, presented some information on the District’s Student Assistance Program, which works to identify students who may be at risk for behavioral, attendance, health and academic issues. Teachers, administrators, counselors, psychologists, social workers and school nurses are assigned to Student Assistance Teams throughout the District and establish good rapport with students, have a high level of student contact and are dedicated to prevention and intervention efforts. Team members have been trained to identify and work with students who may need extra help. Radnor High School’s team is “HS Hope,” Radnor Middle School’s team is “MS Hope,” and there are Student Resource Teams (SRT) at the elementary level.

The Student Assistance Teams also arrange educational presentations for students about pressing health issues, provide mentoring services and gather information about local community agencies. Kane also reviewed some of the district’s available support groups for students, including grief and loss, healthy decisions, social skills, anger management, life skills, changing families and resiliency.

Other school-supported groups focused on the wellness of students include Alliance for Safe Kids (ASK), which facilitates and promotes positive life choices by raising awareness for Radnor students, parents, and teachers about at-risk behaviors through supportive and developed informational programing and Radnor Encouraging Awareness, Communication and Hope for our Community (REACH).

“The main point is, if a child needs help, our schools are ready and able to provide it,” Kane said. “Please contact your school’s guidance counselor and he or she will direct you to the people who can provide the best support.”