Schools don’t need to worry about getting approval from local law enforcement before filing their annual safety submission to the Wisconsin Department of Justice (DOJ) Office of School Safety (OSS), Deputy Director Susan Whitstone (left) and Director Trisha Kilpin (right) told WCRIS in a meeting Thursday.
While schools must “consult” with local law enforcement when updating their school safety plan or conducting an onsite safety assessment, OSS says a school can simply call or email a police agency with an invitation to meet and discuss. Whether or not the police reply or attend your safety meeting is not required. You can still move forward with your submission, OSS said.
There is no requirement that law enforcement “sign off” on the plan, Kilpin said.
To help schools with their submissions, the DOJ has generated a checklist to facilitate compliance. They ask that you email the form after submitting the required items in ShareFile by January 1.
In addition, the office has grant money available to help schools obtain mapping services of their building. Go here for more information.
If you have questions about your safety plan or assessment, the submission itself or the requirements of the law, contact OSS directly. They are eager to help.
