On Friday, February 23, school officers Jeff Hanna and Tim Mercer, along with school principals Dr. Wagner and Mr. Schreier, held a meeting for high school and middle school students that focused on procedures for an active shooter. Superintendent Edward G. DiSabito had sent out an email to parents addressing the drill earlier in the week.
Before the practice drill, students met in the auditorium for a brief explanation for Emergency Responses. Then, they were educated on the three types of actions that the school plans on taking in case of a shooter. The three action plans include either running, hiding, or fighting. Mr. Mercer indicated the security team’s plan is to be transparent with students and teachers in the event of emergencies to avoid confusion.
After the meeting concluded, students will be asked to return to their classrooms where an announcement was sent over the loud speaker to start the “Hide” part only at 9:30 a.m.
The hide portion of the drill, sated by Superintendent DiSabito, “Our students and staff will learn and practice how to darken the classroom, silence electronic devices, and remain calm during the incident.”
Students and teachers remained in their classrooms with the lights out and found a safe space to hide, away from windows and doors, in complete silence.
The drill lasted under 5 minutes in length. During the drill, there was no simulation of an active shooter. This means that there was no gunshots fired within the school. Once the drill concluded, students returned to their normal school day.
If there are any questions about the day, you may contact a school principal to further your understanding of the situation.
