Media Procedures
Television, radio, and newspapers provide an excellent conduit for getting information to a large number of people. As a result, information shared with the news media should be both timely and accurate. Misinformation, speculation, and “bits and pieces” of the story can be both confusing and damaging. Therefore, employees and students should avoid speaking with the press.
- Representatives of the school administration will be responsible for setting up news conferences and briefings.
- Reporters and photographers should be kept off campus until specific photo and briefing opportunities have been scheduled by the school administration.
- If you are put in the position of talking with the media, always try to be helpful by offering to refer them directly and quickly to the administration. Avoid the phrase, “No comment” because in the public mind, that can imply negligence.
- If the Head of School is unavailable, another administrator or Communications Director can speak to the media. (see phone list).
- If no one is available, get the name and number of the media representative and tell him/her you will return the call immediately. Continue with the above procedure until you reach someone.
- These guidelines are also applicable in non-emergency situations using the same calling procedure.
Law For Contacting Law Enforcement
NOTE: N.C. Law: G.S. 115C-288(G) – Requirements For Contacting Law Enforcement
When a reasonable belief that any of the following acts of crime and violence have occurred on school property or at school sponsored events, you are required by law to contact the respective principal within 24 hours. If you have a question about whether or not an incident should be reported, consult with administration.
- Assault on school personnel not resulting in serious injury
- Assault resulting in serious injury
- Homicide
- Kidnapping
- Possession of a controlled substance
- Possession of a firearm
- Possession of a weapon
- Rape
- Robbery
- Robbery with a dangerous weapon
- Sexual assault
- Sexual offense
- Taking indecent liberties with a minor
Conceal Carry Law
N.C. Gen. Stat. §14-269.2.
“It is illegal to carry any gun, rifle, pistol, dynamite cartridge, bomb, grenade, mine, powerful explosive, bowie knife, dirk, dagger, slingshot, leaded cane, switch-blade knife, blackjack, metallic knuckles, or any other weapon of like kind on private school property unless for instructional or sanctioned ceremonial purposes.” (U.S. Department of Education, 2013)
