Safety & Security

At Rankin County School District the safety and well-being of our students, staff, and community are our top priorities. We understand that as parents and guardians, you trust us to provide a safe environment where your child can learn and grow. We want to take this opportunity to share with you some safety protocols we have in place, and how we are continuously working to ensure the security of our school.

Emergency Response Plans

The Rankin County School District has a District wide Emergency response plan, as well as a plan for each of our 28 campuses to fit their school and community. Our plans cover procedures for a wide range of potential incidents, including: medical emergencies, fire emergencies, severe weather, controlled movement and lockdown situations, natural disasters, and evacuation and reunification.

Visitor Protocol

Emergency Drills and Preparedness

We conduct regular drills for emergencies such as fire, lockdowns, evacuations, and severe weather. These drills are an essential part of our preparation, helping both students and staff respond quickly and safely if an emergency occurs. Our staff is well-trained to handle various situations, and we review our emergency plans periodically to address any changes or new concerns.

Campus Emergency Response Team (C.E.R.T.) / Safety Coordinator

Law Enforcement

Our Safety and Security Staff and School District maintains a close relationship with local law enforcement and emergency responders. Our District has a dedicated School Resource Officer at all 28 of our campuses, through a partnership with the Rankin County Sheriff's Office, Brandon Police Department, and the Florence Police Department. Prior to the new school year we host a zone safety meeting in each of our eight school zones. First responders and school administrators come together to review emergency procedures, scenarios, and campus walk throughs.

Emergency Notification

The Rankin County School District uses a mobile app that allows school staff to quickly and discreetly notify emergency responders in the event of an emergency. With the press of a button, staff can immediately send alerts to law enforcement, fire departments, and EMS. These alerts provide critical details such as the type of emergency, the school’s location, and real-time updates to ensure a quick and coordinated response.

In the event of an emergency, parents will receive information from the District Office via ParentSquare which will come in the form of an email, text message, or through the ParentSquare app. Please make sure that your contact information is up-to-date in PowerSchool so that you can receive emergency notifications in a timely manner.

See Something Say Something

Weather

The decision to cancel or delay school is based on several factors including road conditions, weather forecasts, and building safety. We work closely with the National Weather Service, Rankin County Emergency Operations Center, local Fire and Law Enforcement, and County Road Department during the decision making process. We will keep you informed through ParentSquare (text, email, ParentSquare app), social media channels, and local news.

Mental Health

Rankin County School District has 5 mental health therapists on staff that respond to student crises, grief counseling and mental health needs. In addition to the P3 tipline listed above, RCSD also has an online bully reporting platform where students, parents, staff or community members can report bullying behavior online and district personnel are notified. We use an online student education platform for students in grades 6-12 regarding making healthy choices with your mental health, relationships, cybersecurity and drug and alcohol awareness.

Cyber Security

What Can You Do as a Parent

Talk with your student about reporting concerns to district staff or law enforcement.
Be aware of all surroundings. If something does not seem right, report it.
If you have firearms or weapons in your home, please secure them.
Stay informed.
Listen to your student and help them process any concerns they may have.
Model appropriate behaviors. Demonstrate healthy ways to express anger and relieve stress.
Take an active role in your student’s education. Visit and volunteer at school, monitor schoolwork, and get to know teachers.
Get to know your student’s friends and families. Establish a network to exchange information with other parents.
Monitor and supervise your student’s reading material, television, video games, and music for appropriate content.
Monitor and supervise your student’s use of the Internet and ALL social media.
Watch for warning signs in your child/ren.
In situations such as the tragedy in Florida, an at-risk student shows warning signs. Some signs of potential violence may be factors such as:
- Serious drug or alcohol use;
- Gang membership or strong desire to be in a gang;
- Access to or fascination with weapons, especially guns;
- Trouble controlling feelings like anger or disappointment;
- Withdrawal from friends and usual participation in activities or events;
- Regularly feeling rejected or alone;
- Feeling constantly disrespected;
- Increased loss of temper resulting in violent or aggressive behavior;
- Frequent physical fighting;
- Increased use of alcohol or drugs;
- Increased risk-taking behavior;
- Declining school performance;
- Acute episodes of major mental illness;
- Planning on how to commit acts of violence;
- Announcing threats or plans for hurting others;
- Obtaining or carrying weapons; and/or
- Displaying harm or cruelty to animals
- If you see something, say something!

Students in these situations will often share their plans with other students. Again, talk and listen to your child and his/her friends.

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