HOW WE PROTECT OUR STUDENTS

We have developed a comprehensive and layered safety approach, guided by best practices in school security and rooted in our mission to serve families with excellence and integrity. While we do not publicly share specific response procedures for security reasons, we can share the following proactive measures in place:

  • Full-time School Resource Officer (Officer Krauss, who has over 13 years of experience on the job, with 5 of them being in the school system) on campus as a trusted protector and mentor

  • Secure classroom designs, including self-locking doors and clearly identified safe areas ("hard corners")

  • Window coverings to limit visibility during lockdown scenarios

  • Routine lockdown and fire drills to ensure staff and students are prepared

  • Use of the SchoolPass visitor system, which includes screening for sex offender registries and tracks who is on our campus

  • Random K9 visits that help detect illegal substances or weapons

  • A culture of vigilance and personal responsibility, supported by trained staff and community involvement

At Parkway Christian Academy, we are committed to providing a safe, Christ-centered environment where students can grow academically, emotionally, and spiritually. As part of that commitment, we are blessed to have a School Resource Officer (SRO) serving on our campus.

Our SRO is a sworn law enforcement officer who works in partnership with the school and Lakeland Police Department. More than just a security presence, our SRO serves as a mentor, protector, and positive role model, helping to guide our students in both safety and character.

What Does a School Resource Officer (SRO) Do?

The SRO's role includes:

  • Promoting a safe and peaceful learning environment

  • Building trust and relationships grounded in respect and integrity

  • Teaching students about wise decision-making, accountability, and biblical values

  • Supporting our staff and families during times of need or crisis

  • Handling/preventing criminal activity on campus

We are thankful to have an officer who shares our vision of nurturing students in a way that honors Christ while helping ensure their physical and emotional well-being.

Our commitment to safety is ongoing. We regularly review and improve our procedures, train our staff, and work in partnership with local law enforcement — all while seeking the Lord’s wisdom and protection in all we do.

Looking Ahead: Future Safety Enhancements

Future safety upgrades being considered include:

  • Perimeter security fencing to create a single point of entry, enhancing access control across our campus

  • A state-of-the-art public address (PA) system to streamline emergency communication across all buildings

  • Additional surveillance cameras to expand our ability to monitor and respond to activity in and around school grounds

  • Upgraded locks for all inward-swinging doors to increase internal security and improve emergency response capabilities

At Parkway Christian Academy, our commitment to student safety doesn't stop at what we have in place today — it continues to grow with prayerful planning, community support, and responsible stewardship. As resources become available, we are preparing for strategic enhancements that will further strengthen the protective measures surrounding our campus.

These planned improvements reflect our proactive approach to campus safety — one that honors our responsibility as caretakers of God’s children. As we grow, we remain committed to creating a secure, Christ-centered environment where students can thrive.

If you feel led to support these future safety initiatives financially or would like more information about specific needs, we invite you to reach out to our administration. Your generosity can make a lasting impact on the safety and well-being of every student at Parkway Christian Academy.