Cook County School District 130 Strengthens Student Safety with New Programs, Increased Personnel

Cook County School District 130 wraps up the 2025-2026 school year with numerous safety improvements. From increasing the number of safety liaisons to taking the first steps for a therapy dog program, Safety Director Geoffery Farr has already made a huge impact on the health and well-being of all the students.

Increased Safety Support

The District approved doubling the number of safety liaisons at the school. They help maintain a safe and secure learning environment by enforcing Cook County School District 130 safety and security policies, access control procedures, accident prevention efforts, as well as supporting risk management efforts, fire, safety, emergency management, and traffic enforcement programs. The Liaisons will also wear new color-coded uniforms, reflecting a more professional look and making them more easily identifiable.

The Safety Department also expanded the number of crossing guards, improving safety during arrival and dismissal.

ALICE Program

Mr. Farr became a certified ALICE instructor. ALICE, which stands for Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, and Evacuate, is a school program that teaches people how to respond to an active threat. Unlike other single-option programs, ALICE empowers students and staff with multiple strategy options based on the situation.

Enhanced Communication

The District approved adding an Assistant Director of Safety to increase efficiency and communication. The Safety Department is also exploring a new standardized records management system to store and manage safety-related information securely and has procured additional radios to equip every employee, regardless of their status. These changes will help streamline protocols and increase efficiency for the District.

New Technology

A new weapons detection unit was added to the schools. Called CEIA OPENGATE, this versatile unit can reliably scan people, backpacks, and purses without needing them to be emptied.

Raptor Alert is being implemented at every school. This school safety system instantly notifies staff and first responders during emergencies via emergency management software, badge alerts, and 911 connectivity.

Therapy Dog Program

The District is in the initial stages of adding a therapy dog program. It will use trained dogs to support students’ emotional well-being, reduce stress, and foster a positive school environment. More info will be available as the 2026-2027 school year begins.

Superintendent Colleen M. McKay, Ed.D., says these changes will help students feel more comfortable in the classroom and increase parent trust. “We are always looking for ways to improve our students’ lives at school. At the end of the day, we want our students to focus on what matters most, learning and growth. These new safety improvements help make that happen.”

About District 130

Cook County School District 130, located in the southern suburbs of Chicago, is committed to delivering an exceptional educational experience for students in Alsip, Blue Island, Crestwood, Robbins, and the surrounding areas. The District's mission is to provide a well-rounded educational foundation that supports students' academic, physical, and emotional growth, while fostering both their success and a commitment to the community. The District is dedicated to cultivating a culture of trust, collaboration, and equity, ensuring a supportive learning environment for all members of its school community. By focusing on high standards and innovative practices, the District aims to prepare students for personal and professional success in the future.