The school year has officially begun in Cherokee County. Students are making their way to and from the bus stop, parents are helping with homework in the evenings, and making sure that everyone gets to their extracurricular activities on time. While the kids are at school learning their ABCs and 123s, parents shouldn’t be concerned for their safety. In a time when anything could happen – from natural disasters to physical safety concerns, it is essential that the school system has a fast and accurate way to communicate with parents. That is why Cherokee County has adopted the SchoolMessenger System.
The SchoolMessenger System is in addition to the current communication system – not a replacement. It will allow the county to send district-level emergency and non-emergency emails, texts, and automated phone calls. Schools will continue to send letters home and use email and text messages to share school information with parents/guardians; and the system will continue to use its website, social media and traditional media to communicate with the public.
“Teaching and learning cannot happen effectively unless students are safe and secure,” Superintendent of Schools Dr. Frank Petruzielo said. “Communication is an important facet of ensuring that safety and security, and we are constantly seeking out ways to improve how we communicate with parents, especially in times of emergencies. This new system will be of great assistance in that mission.”
The new system is a result of recommendations from the Superintendent’s Ad Hoc Safety and Security Committee that are all aimed at improving communication and safety for CCSD students. Other changes include additional Police Officers, new security cameras, and a front office “panic button.” Parents will need to “opt-in” to SchoolMessenger. Provide your contact information to your child’s school to get included in these broadcasts.
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