Stronger Together: A Community Committed to Safety
Wednesday, September 2, 2026
As we head into a new school year, we wanted to share more about the collaborative safety efforts happening behind the scenes to protect the people and places we all care about.
A Unified Approach to Safety
Safety isn't just a Village function, or a school function, or a park district function -- it's something we all own together. We communicate regularly, share best practices, and work to strengthen the systems and relationships that protect our residents.
What Our Partnership Looks Like
Daily Presence
Every school day, Glencoe Public Safety officers visit each District 35 school building and Park District preschool classroom at least once. The Village also provides Public Safety support at Park District camps and large events, as well as patrols Glencoe Beach and our parks daily - because safety in our public spaces is so important too. This consistent presence builds trust and familiarity between our safety professionals and the children and staff they protect.
Practicing Together
Regularly throughout the year, leaders from the Village, District 35, the Park District, the Public Library, Family Service of Glencoe, and Public Safety get together for tabletop exercises and safety drills. We walk through emergency scenarios as a team, so if something real ever happens, we're not figuring out our roles for the first time.
Immediate Response
We don't wait for scheduled meetings when something comes up. If a new concern arises or a situation develops, we convene immediately to make sure resources go where they're needed--whether that's additional security measures, mental health supports, or facility planning.
Our Extended Network
District 35 and Public Safety also take part in regional safety simulations with other New Trier Township sender school districts, so we're learning from -- and preparing alongside -- our neighboring communities too. Our commitment to safety extends beyond these three organizations. We're proud to partner with:
- Family Service of Glencoe
- New Trier Township
- Local healthcare providers
- Regional emergency management partners
Each of these partners brings expertise and support when it matters most, helping us address everything from mental health resources to large-scale emergency response.
Your Role in Community Safety
Safety in Glencoe isn't the job of one organization. It's a shared commitment amongst all of us AND all of you. SO here's where we ask you to play your part.
Keep Your Information Current
Make sure your emergency contact information is up to date with District 35 and the Park District. In an emergency, accurate information saves precious time.
Talk to Your Children
Have age-appropriate conversations about safety. Help them understand why we have certain protocols in place and what to do if they ever feel unsafe.
Drive Safely in School Zones
Slow down. Our kids are walking, biking, and crossing streets every day. A few extra seconds of patience can prevent tragedy.
Stay Aware
When you're spending time in our parks, attending a special event, or visiting our recreation facilities, keep an eye on your surroundings. Remember: if you see something, say something.
Register for Emergency Alerts
Sign up for the Village's emergency notification system through Smart911. When it matters most, this gives us a direct line to provide you with critical information.
Stronger, Prepared, and Committed Together
Our safety protocols exist for a reason, developed with expert guidance from Glencoe Public Safety. Every drill, every training, every daily check-in is part of a larger commitment to protecting what matters most: our community.
We're proud of the work we do together, and we're grateful to live and work in a community that values collaboration and care.
We're stronger together. Prepared together. And committed to safety together.
Watch the video to hear directly from Village Manager Phil Kiraly, Glencoe Park District Executive Director Lisa Sheppard, and District 35 Superintendent Catherine Wang.
Questions or concerns? Don't hesitate to reach out to any of our organizations:
Village of Glencoe
Glencoe Park District
Glencoe School District 35