Board of Education unveils strategic plan to enhance student safety and wellness

Lexington City Schools is set to enhance student safety and well-being through a comprehensive strategic plan aimed at fostering a supportive educational environment. During the Board of Education meeting on April 1, 2025, key initiatives were outlined that focus on improving school safety, mental health resources, and student attendance.

The strategic plan, which spans until 2029, includes two primary goals: increasing the percentage of students who feel safe and engaged at school by 5% annually, and reducing chronic absenteeism from 34.5% to 22.5%. To achieve these objectives, the district is implementing several strategies.

One significant initiative is the establishment of an Emergency Response Plan (ERP) to enhance safety protocols across all schools. This includes conducting facility risk assessments and training staff in incident command structures to ensure preparedness in emergencies.

Additionally, the district is prioritizing mental health by launching a comprehensive wellness program for employees. This includes "Wellness Wednesdays," where staff can engage in health activities and receive support through an Employee Assistance Program available year-round.

To further support students, the district is increasing access to mental health resources, partnering with local agencies to provide counseling and therapeutic support. The plan also emphasizes the importance of attendance, with a new attendance recognition program that celebrates students for their commitment to being present in school.

Finally, the district is focusing on improving school culture by providing staff with training on social-emotional health and effective disciplinary strategies. This includes Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI) training for educators to better manage student behavior and ensure a fair disciplinary process.

These initiatives reflect Lexington City Schools' commitment to creating a safe, engaging, and supportive environment for all students, with a clear focus on measurable outcomes and community involvement. As the district moves forward, these strategies are expected to significantly impact student well-being and academic success.