Mondays with Mike: Life, Health and Safety
Congrats on completing 1st Semester so well!
This Friday marks the halfway point of the school year, and I want to take a moment to reflect and prepare for what’s ahead. Over the next four weeks, the podcast will explore topics that are often overlooked but deeply influence how we educate and care for your children. At PCA, our top priority is providing a safe and healthy environment for your kids—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. In light of the challenges posed by school violence and mental health struggles, I wanted to address these head-on with you.
Today, you’ll hear from two key leaders on our team: Mr. Steve Howe, our Operations Officer, and Mrs. Jolene Sbrizza, our Lead Nurse. Both are highly experienced, deeply committed professionals who, with God’s guidance, help ensure that PCA is a safe and nurturing place for your children to grow and thrive in life, faith, character, and learning.
4 Key Takeaways:
1. Dedicated Leadership and Expertise
- PCA’s Operations Officer, Steve Howe, brings 24 years of military experience, including Special Forces and security planning, directly applying this expertise to oversee safety protocols, security measures, and emergency operations.
- The Head Nurse, Jolene Sbrizza, with over 20 years of cardiac nursing experience, ensures high-quality medical care and fosters a safe, supportive environment for students’ physical and emotional well-being.
2. Comprehensive Safety Programs
- PCA employs proactive safety strategies, including the “Eagle Eyes” volunteer program. Volunteers, who undergo background checks and training, monitor campus activity to maintain a secure environment.
- Regular drills, emergency training, and partnerships with local authorities, such as the Dover Police Department, align PCA’s safety measures with state and federal requirements.
3. Support for Mental Health and Well-Being
- The school addresses common student challenges, such as anxiety and social stress, by providing faith-based resources, screenings, and ongoing support for students and families.
- A collaborative approach between nurses, teachers, principals, and parents ensures early identification of concerns and appropriate intervention.
4. Ongoing Communication and Community Involvement
- Open communication between parents, staff, and leadership is emphasized to ensure a unified approach to student safety and health.
Parents are encouraged to actively engage by participating in programs like “Eagle Eyes” or reaching out with questions or concerns, fostering a strong partnership between home and school.
Podcast Summary
How PCA Prioritizes Security and Health
As we reach the midpoint of the school year, this week’s podcast focuses on PCA’s top priority: providing a safe and healthy environment for your children. Featuring insights from Mr. Steve Howe, Operations Officer, and Mrs. Jolene Sbrizza, Lead Nurse, this episode delves into how PCA tackles physical safety, mental health, and spiritual care with practical systems, collaboration, and a faith-centered approach.
Security at PCA
Steve Howe outlines PCA’s comprehensive security measures, emphasizing preparation, vigilance, and collaboration.
Key initiatives include:
- Eagle Eyes Volunteer Program: Trained parent and grandparent volunteers serve as extra eyes on campus, monitoring activity and maintaining a visible presence to deter threats. Volunteers undergo background checks, safety training, and are equipped with radios for effective communication.
- Emergency Preparedness: PCA conducts regular drills for fire safety, lockdowns, and other scenarios. Teachers and staff are trained to respond calmly and effectively, with clear coordination through the emergency operations center during longer events.
- Partnerships with Local Authorities: Collaboration with the Dover Police Department and other agencies ensures PCA’s plans align with best practices. Local officers provide feedback, training, and walkthroughs to refine emergency procedures.
- Proactive Security Practices: Measures like securing all doors, monitoring traffic, and training staff in situational awareness create a culture of readiness while fostering peace of mind.
Health at PCA
Jolene Sbrizza shares how PCA addresses both physical and mental health, creating a supportive and nurturing environment. Key points include:
- Mental Health Support: The health office identifies common challenges like anxiety, body image issues, and social pressures through screenings and conversations. Faith-based resources and counseling referrals help families address more significant needs.
- Physical Care and Training: From injuries to illnesses, Jolene’s team provides care while teaching perseverance and self-care. CPR training for coaches and staff ensures coverage during after-school activities, and systems are in place to track medical needs while protecting confidentiality.
- Spiritual and Emotional Encouragement: The health office is a safe space for students to rest, reflect, and receive encouragement grounded in Christian values like perseverance and prayer.
What PCA Asks of Parents
PCA relies on strong partnerships with parents to ensure success in these areas. Here’s how you can engage:
- Pray for PCA: Lift up the school, staff, and students in prayer, asking for God’s guidance and protection.
- Reinforce Safety Practices: Talk to your children about drills, emphasizing the importance of listening and responding quickly during emergencies.
- Join the Mission: Volunteer for programs like Eagle Eyes, or offer your expertise to support PCA’s security efforts.
- Communicate Openly: Share concerns about your child’s health or safety with the appropriate staff. Engage with the health office or principals to find solutions together.
Through detailed security protocols, proactive health care, and faith-centered practices, PCA works daily to create an environment where students can grow and thrive. With God’s guidance and your partnership, we keep PCA a safe, healthy, and faith-filled community for your children.
To hear past episodes, share with your loved ones and friends, follow, and even review us, check out our PCA Podcast on these platforms: