The Huron Valley School District has taken significant steps to enhance safety and security measures within its schools, with Milford and Lakeland high schools being the latest to receive reinforced safe and secure entrances.
Milford High School held their ribbon cutting ceremony for their new entrance on Thursday, February 22nd with Superintendent Paul Salah, Assistant Superintendent Geoffrey VanGoethem, Principal Kevin McKenna and his administration team, Highland Township Supervisor Rick Hamill, Huron Valley schools Board President Tom Wiseman, along with Amy Grzymkowski and Lindsay Cotter in attendance.
The school’s Student Council representatives were on hand to help with the cutting as well as representatives from the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office and Rosie the District’s K9 detection with her handler Joe Davies.
The reconstructed entrance at Milford High School features a secure state-of-the art glass vestibule with two sets of doors allowing office staff to properly screen visitors before granting them access to the Main Office. “The hardened vestibules help with visitor management and can help keep unwanted visitors from entering the building,” said Superintendent Dr. Paul Salah.
The renovation project also involved reconfiguring adjacent spaces such as the Main and Attendance offices with the School Resource Officer Deputy Dennis Gross now stationed near the main entrance for improved surveillance. It also allows an unobstructed view for office staff to see people approaching the building and the entrance, either through direct line-of-sight or security cameras. Automatic doors have been installed to ensure that all visitors follow proper protocols throughout the day.
“There have been multiple layers of added security to all of our buildings,” noted Huron Valley School Board President Tom Wiseman. “The work is ongoing as we strive to meet the needs and adhere to best practices to keep our students, staff and visitors as safe as possible.”
In addition to security enhancements, the school’s exterior look has been revamped with new glass storefront type windows, illuminated signage, school branding and increased lighting.
Although there are further cosmetic improvements still needed such as replacing the benches, flag pole and general construction cleanup the new entrance has been operational since January.
The upgrades and renovations were paid for as a result of the community's support of the 2019 Bond and Sinking Fund proposals.
“Safety and Security remain a top priority and the District is dedicated to providing a secure learning environment. While we are very proud of the work we have been able to complete at the elementary schools and high schools thus far, we recognize that more needs to be done to ensure the safety and security of our students, staff and visitors, along with the ongoing infrastructure needs and to continue to improve student programming,” Wiseman said. “To address these needs, the District will seek community support for a Zero Tax Increase bond on the May 7th ballot.”
To learn more about Bond 2024, please visit www.hvs.org.