Message from the Superintendent - School Safety Measures 2024

September 4, 2024

Dear RCPS Employees and Families,

Please join me in extending our condolences and prayers to Apalachee High School and the entire Barrow County School System at this difficult time. We especially extend our condolences and prayers to the families of those who died or were injured in today’s senseless tragedy. Today’s tragic school shooting at Apalachee High School in Barrow County reminds us of the threats to school safety that exist. Regrettably and despite our best efforts as school districts, tragedies such as what occurred today at Apalachee High School are possible. In light of today’s tragedy, I feel compelled to reiterate our commitment to prioritizing the safety and well-being of our students and staff as well as remind our students and staff to remain vigilant and to be aware of our safety enhancement measures.

•  District requirement that exterior and classroom doors remain locked
•  Clear book bags
•  Controlled Access Camera Activation/Safety Vestibule
•  OpenGate Weapons Detection System
•  EPIC Crisis Alert System
•  School Resource Officers (SROs) (plus the additional SRO added at our high schools)
•  School Safety Personnel
•  Campus Safety Associates
•  Upgraded Surveillance System
•  Office of School Safety worked closely with Conyers Police Department (CPD) to secure a SRO for C.J. Hicks Elementary, our largest elementary school within the City of Conyers

Thanks for all you do in ensuring the success of our safety enhancement measures!

Dr. Terry Oatts
Superintendent
Rockdale County Public Schools