ORCHARD VIEW SCHOOLS

35 S. SHERIDAN DRIVE MUSKEGON, MICHIGAN 49442

Orchard View Early Elementary 231-760-1850 Orchard View Cardinal Elementary 231-760-1700 Orchard View Middle School 231-760-1500 Orchard View High School 231-760-1400

www.orchardview.org

Patricia J. Walstra, Superintendent

Ph: 231-760-1300 Fax: 231-760-1322 pat.walstra@orchardview.org

Orchard View Bridges Program (Alternative Education) 231-760-1692 Orchard View Head Start 231-760-1787 Orchard View Central Office 231-760-1300

March 2013 Dear Orchard View School Family:

Orchard View Community Education 231-760-1350

In light of the tragic events that have taken place in public settings such as our nations schools, it is important to remind all of our Orchard View families that Orchard View Schools has OV Community Ed 760-1350 procedures and plans in place, at each of our buildings, to address emergency situations. Please know that the safety of our students and staff is extremely important to us. We continuously look for improved systems in the area of school safety and security. Orchard View Schools, in partnership with Muskegon Township Police and Fire Departments prepare for different types of emergencies and regularly practice safety procedures with students and staff. While no amount of planning can prevent all tragedies, we are doing everything we know how to do to keep students and staff safe while at school. We are confident that our students and staff are well prepared for emergency situations. Our fire department and public safety agencies assist us in our drills and help us find ways to continuously improve. They have been very complimentary and have told us we are well prepared. We appreciate these partnerships and respect their input and guidance. Local law enforcement and other emergency personnel are our active partners in keeping our schools safe through detailed plans. These experts are in our buildings on a regular basis interacting with students and staff. Our public schools encourage families, parents, and the community to participate in educational activities and special events at our buildings. Orchard View Schools will continue to focus on improving school security and safety procedures that support a balance between security and a quality learning environment. School security and safety has been, and continues to be, a focus and an area of ongoing improvement. Our entire staff, our parents, and our students are the key to our success. We have to remember, schools are some of the safest places in our communities. Thank you for doing your part to keep our students safe. Please contact your building principal or contact me at 231.760.1300 if you have any questions. Sincerely,

Patricia Walstra Superintendent of Orchard View Schools