District 230 names Director of Safety and Security
The Consolidated High School District 230 Board of Education approved Dr. Mary Pat Carr as the district’s first Director of Security. She will move from her current position as Assistant Principal of Activities at Stagg High School to the Administrative Center on July 1.
Among her duties as Director of Safety and Security include:
-
develop, monitor, and implement policies and procedures related to student behavior and discipline
-
promote a positive school environment
-
enhance security measures within the school facilities
-
implement cybersecurity measures and address technology-related safety issues
-
develop and ensure building emergency response plans
-
serve as district liaison with local law enforcement and emergency services
Superintendent Dr. Robert Nolting noted that the Director of Safety and Security is a new position that will focus on issues arising within crisis management. Over the past 20 years, school safety has been vital to student and staff success and in today’s ever-changing landscape.
Carr said, “I would like to extend my gratitude to the District 230 School Board and District administration for recognizing the need for a position that has a sole focus on keeping our students, staff, and community members safe. I appreciate the opportunity to begin this role and look forward to working collaboratively with all members of the District 230 community as we continue to enhance the security at each school campus.”
Nolting said, “Dr Carr brings a wealth of experience to this position. During the interview process, she recommended excellent ideas for addressing security issues and discipline practices. As a veteran District 230 employee, she knows our systems, our students, and our community, all of which will help ensure the safety and well-being of their students, staff, and faculty. One important quality about being accountable for safety and security is the need to care deeply for those in your charge, Dr. Carr fits that to a tee.”
Prior to assuming the role of director, Dr. Carr served as Assistant Principal since 2020 and before that, she was the Head Dean at Stagg for 10 years. She also served as a Dean of Students for three years. Dr. Carr began her career at Stagg on in 2002 as a French teacher, swim coach, water polo coach, and Community Swim Coordinator.
She has a bachelor’s degree in the Teaching of French from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from the University of St. Francis, and a doctorate from the University of st. Francis with research on Preventing Targeted School Violence: Implementation of School Safety Plans and Student Reporting of Safety Concerns. She served as a Faculty Advisor for the Sandy Hook Promise National Youth Advisory Board for two years.