School Safety & Security

Clarkston Community Schools uses the Standard Response Protocol (SRP) to provide clear, consistent language for students, staff, families, and first responders during an emergency.

Developed by the “I Love U Guys” Foundation, the SRP uses five specific actions: Hold, Secure, Lockdown, Evacuate, and Shelter. Each action has a specific meaning and provides students and staff with clear instructions about what to do based on the situation.

Michigan law requires K–12 schools to use standardized response terminology for emergency situations. Using common language helps ensure that when a student, school employee, police officer, firefighter, dispatcher, or other emergency responder hears one of these terms, everyone understands what it means and what action is expected.

The goal is not to create fear or anxiety. It is to build familiarity and confidence. Students and staff practice these procedures through age-appropriate drills and training so they are prepared to respond if an emergency occurs.

By using the same terminology throughout our schools and with our public safety partners, we can reduce confusion, communicate more effectively, and help everyone know what to do when it matters most.

As educators, we are committed to creating safe environments for children, advocating for their needs, and working alongside others who prioritize their health and well-being. That’s why we are proud to support the Be SMART secure gun storage campaign.

Studies of school-based gun violence across decades all point to the same significant point of intervention—addressing students' unauthorized access to guns in the home. Firearm-related injuries and deaths have become a national public health crisis and are the leading cause of death among children in the United States—yet these tragedies are preventable. Storing firearms securely is one of the most effective ways to protect children, especially since an estimated 4.6 million kids live in homes with unsecured guns. Prevention saves lives!

The Be SMART campaign was launched in 2015 to promote responsible gun ownership in order to reduce child gun deaths. Whether you’re a gun owner or you know someone who owns a gun, there is a role for everyone in the conversation around secure gun storage. Be SMART is a framework that parents, caretakers, and community leaders can follow to help keep their communities safe. Ultimately, you can help prevent kids from accessing firearms by storing them securely and encouraging others to do the same. Because children deserve to feel safe, no matter where they are.

Sarah brings more than 25 years of law enforcement, leadership, training, and public-safety experience to her role as Director of Safety and Security for Clarkston Community Schools.

A retired Inspector with the Michigan State Police (MSP), Sarah spent her career working across investigative, operational, and executive leadership assignments, developing a broad understanding of how strong relationships, thoughtful planning, effective training, and organizational culture contribute to safe environments.

During her MSP career, Sarah served in numerous roles, including detective sergeant, forensic artist, missing-persons investigator, and executive command officer. She was an internationally recognized subject-matter expert in missing persons investigations,
unidentified human remains, human trafficking, and forensic art.

In leadership assignments, she also focused extensively on professional development, cultural competency, organizational policy, employee education, and building trust between law enforcement and the communities it serves.

Sarah earned her bachelor’s degree in Anthropology from Michigan State University and an MBA in Leadership from Cleary University. She also continued her education at Harvard University, where she earned an Executive Certificate in Public Leadership, and at Brown University, where she earned a certificate in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.

Sarah retired from the MSP in October of 2025. She resides in Commerce Township with her husband and three children.

In partnership with the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office, we have contracted four dedicated School Resource Officers (SROs) to enhance our safety measures across our schools.

These officers will be a visible and supportive presence in our schools, providing not only security but also fostering positive relationships with our students and staff. Their roles will include:

• Building Relationships: Engaging with students and staff to create a positive and supportive school environment.
• Enhancing Safety: Being vigilant and proactive in maintaining a secure school environment and addressing any safety concerns that may arise.
• Providing Education: Offering educational programs and resources on safety, law enforcement, and crime prevention.