3-Layered Security

3-Layered Approach Secures P-H-M Schools

In 2013, P-H-M instituted a nationally recognized 3-layered approach to student and staff safety in all 15 schools.

  • Included in these layers are electronic access controls that involve exterior and interior lock systems. P-H-M worked with architect, Fanning / Howey Associates, Inc., along with Honeywell Buildings Solutions, to put into place a system that locks off the learning communities in case of a threat. P-H-M’s 3-layered school safety design element was was recognized in 2016 by School Designs.com. Click here to read the article.
  • Included in these layers are access controls that involve primary and secondary lock systems at each entrance.
  • 3M™ Scotchshield™ security film has been placed on all interior and exterior glass windows of all 15 schools.
  • All visitors, volunteers and contractors are required to show a government issued ID or be pre-approved through the volunteer or vendor SafeVisitor Management System. 
  • Safety drills to prepare students and staff are conducted regularly so everyone can practice how to respond in weather/natural disasters, fire, school safety drills, including internal school lockdown drills. Click here for more information on how we partner with the IDOE’s School Building Physical Safety and Security.
  • We have a memorandum of understanding with St. Joseph County Police to provide School Resource Officers (SROs) in our schools.
  • P-H-M partners with VSS Security Services to provide additional police officers in all schools and Hall Monitors at Grissom, Schmucker and Discovery Middle Schools as well as Penn High School.

Threat Assessment Team & School Safety Committees

Every school in our district has a Threat Assessment Team (TAT) and School Safety Committee.  When a threat has been identified, the School Threat Assessment Team (TAT)  conducts a threat assessment using a national threat assessment model. If a threat is determined substantive, appropriate action is taken with authorities along with safety plans with involved students and families are notified.  Rest assured, every threat  is taken seriously and if determined substantive in nature, the appropriate law enforcement agency is notified.  The District Threat Assessment Team reviews all substantive threats monthly and ensures safety plans are current and in place.