Miguel De Cervantes, Spanish novelist stated, “To be prepared is half the victory.” With that in mind, the St. James administrative team meets regularly to prepare for a successful outcome when the unexpected occurs. 

Perhaps you’ve noticed the red EMERGENCY RESPONSE folders posted in each classroom. They contain specific guidelines and directives to be followed in the event of an emergency. The emergencies span the spectrum from inclement weather to nuclear incidents. Printed on cardstock for ease of use, the content of these cards is based on a variety of guidelines and literature from the following sources: National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS), Association of Independent Maryland Schools (AIMS), Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and other national and state emergency preparedness literature. This information is reviewed and updated annually and affirms our responsibility to attend to the general health and welfare of all members of the St. James community in response to emergencies. 

The Board of Trustees and Vestry authorize our system of emergency preparedness to ensure that:

* The health and safety of students and staff are safeguarded;
* The time necessary for instructional purposes is not unduly diverted, i.e. minimal disruption to the educational program;
* Students and staff are helped to learn self-reliance and trained to respond sensibly to emergency situations.

So how can you, as parents, assist with these worthy goals?

* Complete and update the Student Emergency Information cards at the beginning of each school year and as needed thereafter. These cards include:
o Parents’ home, cell, and business telephone numbers;
o Parents’ email addresses
o Names and telephone numbers of each child’s health care provider;
o Authorization for emergency treatment as an attending physician may deem necessary if parents cannot be reached.
o Authorization to release emergency contact information to St. James Academy room parents in order to facilitate the notification of parents in case of emergency closings and other global emergencies.

* Access the following in the event of “normal” emergencies such as weather-related closures or delays and utility closures:
o SJA website (www.saintjamesacademy.org)
o SJA telephone (410.771.4816), menu choice “4”.

* Post the “Emergency Closing Procedure” guidelines included in the student handbook and the Academy NEWS TO YOU on your home bulletin board or refrigerator for easy access.

* Familiarize yourself with the following information:
o In the event of an emergency related to the community of St. James Academy , factual information will be collected, coordinated, and disseminated to the general public by the Rector, The Reverend Charles Barton, and the Head of School, Dr. Elizabeth Legenhausen.
o Faculty, staff, and parents are asked to honor this designated spokesperson policy and not address the media without authorization.

It is our honor and privilege to serve the families of St. James on our journey together!

Elizabeth Legenhausen, EdD

Head of School