KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Oak Park High School in the North Kansas City School District is empowering students to make a difference in other students’ lives.
This week is Safety Awareness Week at the high school. Last month, the school held a safety panel discussion, and several students shared their concerns with staff.
"There's a lot of things that our students came up with that again, they feel they have voice in this, they have choice, and it's something that's making our school a better place," said Dr. Mike Dial, Assistant Principal at Oak Park High School.
This week, their concerns will be addressed.
"We really wanted to interact with our students in a proactive way. A lot of times when people think about school safety, they think about being reactive and crisis plans," said Dial.
Students will also participate in a different activity every day while school administrators and safety officers go over possible active shooter scenarios and strategies.
"I think Oak Park's very good at just being there for people when things happen and so, I think getting to know more people helps with helping people," said Rachel Head, Senior at Oak Park High School.
Safety Awareness Week activities include:
- Monday, April 16: Students are challenged to introduce themselves and get to know 17 students they didn’t know before.
- Tuesday, April 17: Puppy Play Day - This popular event will explore the benefits and value of pets and therapy animals.
- Wednesday, April 18: Students are challenged to encourage 17 people to register to vote.
- Thursday, April 19: Students are challenged to thank 17 people in their lives who help make them feel safe.
- Friday, April 20: Everyone is encouraged to wear the color orange in support of Stoneman Douglas High School and the 17 lives lost.
During advisory period, students and teachers will discuss different scenarios about active shooters and effective actions that can save lives.
"We want you to want to come school everyday and if kids feel loved, they feel cared for, they're going to want to come to school," said Dial.
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