Principal's Corner
Important updates and events at NPHS!
School Safety Update
As we move into the first full month of the second term, we start getting into that routine of school, work, athletics and other commitments that we are responsible for managing, and then life hits us with one of those moments that brings everything into perspective. The school shooting that took place last week in Florida has had a resounding effect on us as an entire country, but also hits home to students, parents, teachers, staff members and community members here at Newbury Park High School. I want to assure our Newbury Park families that NPHS works very closely with the leadership at the school district office to keep your child safe both physically and emotionally each and every day. I want to remind you that:
1.)The school performs a variety of safety drills throughout the year to practice the potential emergencies that could take place. There is an oral component with talking to classes about protocol and procedures for each general scenario. We then practice the physical aspects of securing a classroom, securing each individual and evacuating to the appropriate location during an emergency.
2.) The entire school staff took part in a two hour active shooter training earlier in the school year. That training included all certificated and classified staff. The training was conducted by the Ventura County Sheriff’s Department.
3.) All teachers were recently trained on the topic of being trauma informed about the students they have in their classes. This training focused on identifying the warning signs, indicators and trigger points that affect a student’s social/emotional well-being while at school and that can impact their opportunity for academic achievement.
4.) We have an excellent school resource officer that is a visible presence here on campus.
5.) We have seven campus supervisors that assist the staff in the overall supervision of the campus.
6.) We are in the process of upgrading our security camera system as well.
These are just a few examples of what is currently in place at NPHS in order to help us manage the many issues we could face. We always work closely with the school district and the Sheriff's department to address the needs that we have and coordinate resources and training available to deal with any issue that might arise. School safety has been and always will be a top priority for NPHS and the entire school district. It is important that we not only address the physical aspects of an emergency situation, but also be prepared to deal with the social/emotional components that become relevant to an emergency situation.
Principal’s Coffee
Please join me this Wednesday, February 21st at 8:30 a.m. in the school cafeteria for my monthly Principal’s Coffee. This is a great opportunity to get updated on what is going on at NPHS and get answers to questions you might have. Please bring any friends or family members that are interested in learning about all the great things taking place at NPHS!
School construction update
As you know, we are in the middle of renovating the pool and, as always, something unknown happens during construction. During the demolition phase of the decking around the Newbury Park High School pool, the District was made aware that the existing deck drain piping may contain a form of asbestos. After further investigation, it was found that this particular type of piping is comprised of the lowest form of asbestos with low to no-risk when handled properly.
The District will be contracting to remove the piping through a regulated and monitored process. A certified environmental company, Criterion Environmental, will monitor the project and the surrounding air during the process and will ensure that measures are in place to assure students, staff, and the public will not have access to or be exposed to any dust or potential contamination. The removal is estimated to take 4 days and begin on March 3rd. Please contact me if you have any questions.
50th Anniversary Update
We are less than 50 days away from celebrating the 50th anniversary of Newbury Park High School. With the help of our ASG students we will be celebrating the anniversary by counting down the last 50 days of school before the celebration with an event each day on campus. Please plan on joining us Saturday, May 5th from 3:00 to 7:00 P.M. to celebrate this great event!
These are just a few current items that you should be aware of. Our school website and calendar are great resources for you on a daily basis to keep in touch with all the great things taking place at NPHS. Please remember we are always available to help, my door is open for you, and your questions and concerns are always going to be a priority here at NPHS. And always remember: We Are Better Together!
Mr. Lepire