A new safety app is set to enhance security measures in McMinnville School District, with plans for implementation discussed during the November 4 school board meeting. The app, SaferWatch, will allow designated staff to initiate lockdowns in response to potential threats, ensuring a swift reaction to emergencies.

The board emphasized the importance of controlled access to the app, which will be geo-fenced to prevent unauthorized use. Only staff members within the vicinity of their assigned schools will have the ability to activate the lockdown feature, ensuring that safety protocols are strictly followed. "You can control who has access to press which button," one board member noted, highlighting the app's security features.

Training for staff will be crucial as the app rolls out, with a focus on ensuring everyone understands the implications of pressing the lockdown button. The district is among the first in Oregon to adopt this technology, which has been successfully used in larger districts across the East Coast and Florida.

In addition to the app, the board discussed the distribution of safety information to parents, including resources available in both English and Spanish. This initiative aims to keep families informed about reporting mechanisms for issues like bullying and violence through the Safe Oregon tip line.

The McMinnville School District is committed to fostering a safe environment for students and staff, and the introduction of SaferWatch is a significant step in that direction. As the district prepares for the app's rollout, the focus will remain on training and communication to ensure effective use of the new safety measures.