Lots Of Questions For Educators At ‘Coffee and Conversation’

Coffee and Conversation included representatives from Oskaloosa Christian, North Mahaska, Eddyville-Blakesburg-Fremont, and Oskaloosa School Districts.

OSKALOOSA, IA – In response to a question at Coffee and Conversation on Saturday, Oskaloosa Community School District Mike Fisher responded by outlining the district’s steps to ensure the security of its students and staff.

Fisher shared insights into the comprehensive safety measures the district has implemented, highlighting the evolving strategies to combat potential threats.

Acknowledging the unsettling times, Fisher pointed out, “It’s a scary time we live in; we acknowledge that.” He emphasized the district’s commitment to adapting and enhancing safety protocols, reflecting a nationwide trend among educational institutions grappling with similar challenges.

The school district has adopted a multi-layered approach to safety, investing hundreds of thousands of dollars in various security enhancements. Among these measures is installing panic button radios in all schools, directly connected to the local Law Enforcement Center, to ensure immediate emergency response.

Moreover, the district is revisiting its security infrastructure, particularly at middle school levels, where concerns have prompted a thorough study to beef up security measures. “We’re looking at beefing up the security entrance at our middle school right now because that’s been an issue,” Fisher explained, indicating a proactive approach to addressing specific vulnerabilities.

The superintendent also highlighted the implementation of drills that have become a new norm in schools nationwide. These include run, hide, and fight drills designed to prepare students and staff for various emergencies. While such practices mark a significant shift from past protocols, Fisher drew parallels to historical precedents, comparing them to the “duck and cover” drills of the Cold War era, underscoring the changing nature of threats faced by schools over generations.

Despite the reliance on physical security measures and emergency drills, Fisher admitted the solutions are only sometimes straightforward, particularly regarding more controversial measures like metal detectors. “I don’t necessarily [have a] great answer on metal detectors, but we’re always looking for best practice,” he stated, reflecting on the ongoing debate over the most effective ways to ensure school safety.

The district’s efforts have been supported by collaboration with Mahaska County Emergency Management, the Mahaska County Sheriff’s Office, and the Oskaloosa Police Department, which Fisher credits for establishing robust protocols. “We’re so thankful for emergency management, the sheriff’s department, and the PD here in town,” he said, praising the community partnership that bolsters the district’s safety initiatives.

“We appreciate your concern, and we’re always looking at the next best thing,” he concluded in his comments on the question.

The other schools represented at the morning’s gathering also thanked the hard work put in by first responders around the county to help make the schools more prepared in an emergency.

Another attendee asked about teacher retention, and Fisher shared the district’s policies.

Under the leadership of Superintendent Mike Fisher, the district has cultivated what is described as a “magnetic culture,” designed to attract and retain the right talent while fostering an environment of health and empowerment.

Fisher’s philosophy is simple yet profound: prioritize the well-being of staff to enhance the overall educational experience for students. “It’s all about culture,” Fisher states, explaining how the district’s culture not only draws in the right people but also repels those not aligned with their values. Central to this culture is the value placed on health—mental, physical, and emotional.

Oskaloosa has implemented several groundbreaking initiatives aimed at supporting staff. Among these is a rapid-response system to assist with student behavior, boasting an impressive average response time of 70 seconds. This system offers immediate support to educators, dramatically reducing stress and improving classroom management.

Financial and educational incentives further highlight the district’s commitment to its staff. Oskaloosa offers benefits, including a $5,000 bonus for living within the district boundaries, full family health insurance for certified staff, and a $2,500 forgivable loan for new teachers. Furthermore, the district covers continuing education costs for those wishing to specialize in high-need areas like special education, emphasizing the district’s investment in both its current and future educators.

Fisher emphasizes the importance of self-care among educators, drawing an analogy to ensure that “our teachers are at 90% all the time because lives are at stake.” He criticizes the notion that educators should sacrifice their well-being for their profession, advocating instead for a balanced approach that ensures educators are healthy, supported, and ready to make a meaningful impact in their students’ lives.

The success of these initiatives is evident in the district’s low vacancy rates and the high number of candidates eager to join the team, especially in specialized areas like special education. Fisher’s approach offers a model for other districts facing similar challenges, proving that when you take care of your staff, they, in turn, take care of your students.

Coffee and Conversation will continue on February 24th, 2024, when area legislators will be on the hot seat taking community questions.