Dear East Middle School Families,

I hope this finds you well. It is an exciting time as the seasons are changing and holiday vibes begin to kick into full gear. At East Middle, we are continuing to work hard. Students are engaged and growing. Adults are discovering new ways to unlock learning every day.

I'd like to discuss a couple of items in this week's message: safety and cell phones.

SAFETY
The lockdown earlier last week was an anxious time for everyone involved. It is NOT something I hope ever to experience again. However, if there is a silver lining, it is that the moment itself was handled with decisiveness and professionalism, especially in our building. Our teachers and staff managed the event correctly. Our students understood the magnitude of the moment and behaved maturely. We have been able to respond to student needs in the aftermath effectively. Overall, we have analyzed and debriefed on our procedures and will get even better. Thank you for your understanding, support, and feedback.

CELL PHONES
East Middle has a no cell phone in the classroom policy. This comes into question when events like last week occur.
Communication with you (or anyone outside our building) during an emergency is something that will ease your mind. I understand that - I want my daughters to call me the moment I hear of something dangerous occurring even remotely close to their university campuses. However, in the moment of a potentially dangerous event, it is not the right thing to do for two reasons:

• When students communicate with the "outside" world, those people then put communication online (Facebook, etc.) which can put students in jeopardy. Posts like, "My child is with Mr. Allan right now, and he's in the corner of his room" theoretically tell the bad guys where students are.

• When students are texting on individual devices, they are distracted from the moment when their attention needs to be 100% on the adult in charge.

I know several of you have told your student to keep their cell phone on their person no matter what. However, I want you to understand our thinking and how we will proceed.

• The No Cell Phone in the Classroom Policy is still in effect.

  • Note: if we never see the device, we will never know if it is with them.

• If we see a student on a personal device, we will confiscate it.

  • First offense - they can pick it up in the front office at the end of the day

  • Second offense - you will need to come pick it up for them

Thank you for your support and understanding as we work hard to see your child succeed in life and beyond.

In partnership,

Principal Allan
East Middle School