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August 28, 2023 | Safety and Security Protocols for All Athletic Events

OKCPS Families, 

In light of Friday night's tragic event, OKCPS has reviewed and updated our existing safety and security protocols for games played at OKCPS facilities. As always, the safety and security of our students and staff is the top priority and these decisions were made with that goal in mind.

Effective immediately, the following protocols will be in place and enforced. 

 

Safety and Security Protocols for All Athletic Events Played at OKCPS Facilities 

  • School Resource Officers (SRO) and/or OKCPS Campus Security Officers will be present at all athletic events. 

  • An Open Gate Weapons Detection System will be at every athletic event. All individuals will be required to pass through Open Gate, including students, staff, families and other spectators. 

    • If an individual passing through the Weapons Detection System triggers an alarm, they will not be allowed entry.

  • Small purses, no larger than 4.5 inches by 6.5 inches will be permitted. Bags that are necessary for medical equipment will be searched. No other bags or purses, including diaper bags, backpacks or tote bags will be permitted and the limit on bags is one per person.

  • No unauthorized people will be allowed on the sidelines. Spectators are expected to stay in the designated area in the stands. 

High School Athletic Events

  • Only high school students who attend one of the high schools competing will be allowed admittance to the game. Students will be expected to present identification using their school ID or recent class schedule. 

    • An administrator from both the home and visiting teams will be present to verify the eligibility of students and visitors.

  • No other students will be allowed to attend without being accompanied by an adult. 

Middle School Athletic Events

  • No students will be allowed to attend without being accompanied by an adult. 

 

General Safety and Security Reminders

  • Weapons Free Campuses

    • Weapons of any kind are not permitted on any OKCPS campus for any reason. This includes any school event, including athletic events. 

  • See Something, Say Something 

    • Please report any suspicious activity, including cars, people, conversations, social media posts and/or other writing to our 24/7 Hotline - (405) 587-SAFE.

    • If there is a life-threatening emergency, always call 911. 

If your students would benefit from social or emotional support, please connect with their school’s mental health professional or reach out to our Crisis Response Team. 

This information will be shared with students via their OKCPS email account. 

We all play a part in keeping our team SAFE. Even the smallest actions help to make sure that all of us feel safe, important, and valued!

  • See something, say something–no matter how insignificant it may seem

  • Acknowledge your feelings–own how you feel in the moment and show empathy for others

  • Find a trusted adult to talk with–find a counselor, coach, or other trusted adult to share how you feel

  • Encourage others to seek help when they are struggling

Your school counselors and student assistance specialists are here to help you navigate through challenging and traumatic situations. Please reach out to them for additional assistance and support. Safe spaces will be made available if or when you need them.

 

The safety and security of our students, staff and community members is a top priority. We all play a role and must remain vigilant in our safety and security practices. 

Thank you for your continued support of OKCPS.