PACE Awards recognize two districts, safety director

Congratulations to the Parkrose School District, this year’s statewide PACE Safety Star Award winner! The district was chosen for its innovation in converting a bus into a mobile emergency command center. This vehicle contains all the necessary information to set up a reunification site within 30 minutes and to host student staging, parent check-in, security materials, first aid and other emergency response equipment. The district is also awarded $5,000 from PACE to be used in further school safety improvement efforts.

PACE Awards Program recognizes achievements that allow members to better serve the students of Oregon. Another school district and an individual are also recognized through the 2021 PACE Awards. The

Outstanding project: South Harney SD increased student safety by creating a safe room for students and staff. Increased road traffic and their rural location inspired them to make a safe space while they wait for emergency services. The room has a secure metal door, security cameras, an intercom system and emergency supplies.

Outstanding individual: Kevin Sutherland, Gresham-Barlow SD, created safety resources and procedures for each school in the district to offer as students returned to classrooms. The district offered walking tours and resources and instructions for dealing with common issues and safety precautions. The process allowed staff, volunteers and parents to go from one school to the next with familiarity about the safety precautions.