Riverwood Incidents Result in Extra Security Measures

Riverwood principal Robert Shaw sent the letter below to parents following concern of two incidents in less than a week at the school. Last Friday male intruders were arrested after roaming the hallways and grounds. 

See also: 

Update: Riverwood Intruders Charged, Taken to Fulton County Jail

Riverwood Parents Receive Letter on Suspicious Men Roaming School Hallways

Riverwood Fight Breaks Out, Pepper Spray Used, Police Called

Dear Riverwood Community:

As you recall, last Friday we had a situation on campus where two young men entered our building and I promised follow-up information to you.

I have reviewed the security footage and determined that the individuals did enter through our front doors but were not stopped by anyone as they moved through the rotunda. Every day our staff and volunteers do a great job of making our school welcoming to visitors but this can sometimes leave our building vulnerable to individuals who are not authorized to be here. While we don’t want to create an atmosphere that is rigid and fortress-like, we do need to be mindful of how we can provide a more secure environment. 

When I became principal, one of my first priorities was to assess our security. I made my intentions known that we needed additional support in the front entranceway. Starting tomorrow, we will have an additional security person who will monitor that area. The plan is for this person to be present for the remainder of the school year. I appreciate the district’s Safety & Security Department and other central office personnel for helping make this happen.

This will mean a small change in how Riverwood operates. When visitors come to the building, they will have to check in at the front security desk before conducting their business. Several other Fulton County schools use this same procedure. Also, please know that students will no longer be allowed to meet their parents outside of the building to pick up lunch or other items.  Parents must go into the building to drop off items. There is a Fulton County School Board policy that addresses some of these issues and you can read it here:http://www.boarddocs.com/ga/fcss/Board.nsf/goto?open&id=8F6J684B995F

The layout of our facility creates some unusual challenges and I appreciate the support of the district in helping us with safety and security. 

If you have any questions or concerns, please let me know.

Thanks,

Robert Shaw, Ed.D

Principal