Union County Public Schools (UCPS) is committed to ensuring the safety and security of students, staff and visitors. At the Aug. 6 Board of Education meeting, Jarrod McCraw, assistant superintendent of student support, shared a safety and security update.

This year, UCPS has assigned a School Resource Officer (SRO) to every school, a goal it has worked toward for the past three years. These SROs, in partnership with local law enforcement agencies such as the Monroe Police Department, Stallings Police Department, Union County Sheriff's Office, and Waxhaw Police Department, play a crucial role in maintaining a secure learning environment.

School safety enhancements

To continuously improve school safety, UCPS conducts regular security assessments to identify strengths and areas for improvement. This year, UCPS plans to update its visitor management system to enhance the ability to monitor and manage campus visitors effectively. As visitors enter schools and central services buildings, they will now use the Verkada Visitor Management System.

Extracurricular event security

UCPS has also updated safety protocols for extracurricular events. Since the 2023-2024 school year, the following measures have been in place:

• Clear bag policy: Only clear bags no larger than 4.5” x 6.5” are allowed.
• Adult supervision: Elementary and middle school students must be accompanied by an adult.
• Ticket sales: All ticket sales end at the beginning of halftime or the mid-point of events.

New for the 2024-2025 school year, UCPS will begin using body scanners at events, starting with home varsity football games. These state-funded body scanners are designed to enhance security and will be operated by trained school and athletic staff, with law enforcement officers present to ensure safety.

08/07/2024