Montgomery Township School District Hosts Security Roundtable Discussion

By Nicholas Mistretta

Montgomery, NJ – On Wednesday, February 5th, Montgomery Township School District Superintendent Mary McLoughlin and District Safety and Security Director Tom Wain led a roundtable discussion and presentation on the district’s security measures and procedures. The event, held in the Montgomery High School media center, was open to the public and aimed to introduce key safety personnel, provide an overview of security initiatives, and address community concerns.

Experienced Leadership in Security
Director Tom Wain brings a wealth of experience to the district’s security operations. With 27 years of service in the Montgomery Township Police Department, the final three of which he served as Director, Wain transitioned into the newly created school security position in 2020. His background includes working as a D.A.R.E. officer with fifth graders from 1996-2001, serving as a School Resource Officer (SRO) at the high school from 2005-2008, and coaching girls’ varsity softball alongside John Rooney from 2006-2011.

Strengthening Physical Security
The district has assembled a team of knowledgeable and approachable armed retired law enforcement officers to oversee safety at each school. This year, Montgomery High School (MHS) also welcomed Heather Thompson as the school’s security monitor, a role designed to provide a consistent presence at the front entrance. Wain emphasized the importance of having a trained individual monitoring access points, stating, “If you don’t know what’s normal, you won’t recognize what’s suspicious.” The goal is to have a dedicated security monitor in each school building.

The entire security team was present and took the opportunity to introduce themselves, sharing their backgrounds and qualifications.

The current security team includes:
– Mr. Richard Floyd – MHS Safety and Security Coordinator
– Mr. Matthew Lawrence – MHS Safety and Security Coordinator
– Mr. John Insabella – UMS Safety and Security Coordinator
– Mr. Thomas Frascella – LMS Safety and Security Coordinator
– Mr. Mark Leopold – VES Safety and Security Coordinator
– Mr. Vincent Carrube – OHES Safety and Security Coordinator
– Ms. Heather Thompson – MHS Security Monitor

Wain praised the team, saying, “What we have here is essentially an embarrassment of riches. This team is so talented. I could not be happier.”

Enhanced Access Controls and Monitoring
To strengthen security, the district has implemented several measures:

– Secure Entry Points: All visitor entrances feature a double-door vestibule system installed last year.
– Raptor Visitor Management System: Requires visitors to scan their driver’s licenses, which are checked against various security databases. Wain went on to say that the district can also input information such as restraining orders and custody concerns.
– Video Surveillance: Cameras monitor key areas such as entrances, hallways, and parking lots.

Emergency Preparedness and Drills
The district maintains a comprehensive crisis response plan covering various emergencies, including intruders, medical emergencies, and natural disasters. Regular drills ensure students and staff are prepared for different scenarios:

– One fire drill and one emergency drill per month
– Mandated drills include lockdowns, non-fire evacuations, active shooter responses, and bomb threats
– Full-scale evacuation drills

Advanced Communication Systems
Effective communication is crucial during emergencies. The district utilizes:

– Intercom Systems
– Share911 App: A real-time emergency notification system that provides instant updates to staff and law enforcement. Any staff member can send out an alert or put the entire school on lockdown if need be, with the push of a button.
– Portable Radios: Used by security personnel and staff for efficient coordination.

Montgomery Police Department officers also have access to the Share911 system, reinforcing the partnership between the schools and law enforcement.

Threat Assessment and Prevention
In compliance with N.J.S.A. 18A:17-43.4, the district has established threat assessment teams in each school building to evaluate potential risks and intervene proactively.

MHS Principal Heather Pino highlighted the district’s use of Gaggle, a software that monitors student activity on Google Docs and student Gmail. The program alerts officials if students exhibit signs of self-harm, depression, substance abuse, cyberbullying, or potential threats of violence. While many alerts turn out to be false alarms, Pino stressed that every case is taken seriously and followed up on immediately.

A Strong Partnership With Law Enforcement
Wain emphasized the district’s close relationship with the Montgomery Police Department, describing it as “a special one that all residents should be proud of.” Pino encouraged officers to engage with students by having lunch in the commons, walking the hallways, and maintaining a visible presence in and around the schools. Wain added that the increased police presence is intentional, serving as an added layer of security and reassurance for students, staff, and parents alike.

The presentation provided valuable insights into the district’s commitment to school safety, reinforcing its proactive approach to protecting students and staff. Residents left the meeting with a greater understanding of the security measures in place and confidence in the district’s preparedness for any potential threats.