Hello CI Parents, this is Principal Brenda Shaw. Today we had an Intruder on Campus drill. As you may know, these drills are a requirement by the State Department of Education that must occur at least twice in a school year. Having these drills is also a good practice in school safety as well as helping students feel prepared and empowered should there be an emergency. If students feel prepared, they also feel safe.
Our drill today was much different that previous drills we've had for an Intruder on Campus. Today we utilized the Department of Homeland Security's "Run, Hide, Fight" method, which is being utilized as the normal method in schools across the country. I would encourage you to research this method on the Department of Homeland Security's website.
In our drill today, a teacher made the announcement that we had an intruder on campus, where they were located, that this was just a drill, and to take action. At that point, teachers instructed students how to proceed based on the location of the announcement. Some teachers chose to evacuate their classrooms and take students outside away from the school to safety. Some teachers chose to have their class shelter in place and arm themselves with something to throw at the intruder as a distraction should they enter the classroom (in our case, rolled up wads of paper). In either case, teachers instructed students how to safely prepare should any engagement be necessary during the drill. During the drill, our School Resource Officers were on site to assist and ensure safety. Immediately following the drill, teachers debriefed with their students, reassured them of their safety, and returned to classwork.
Research shows that parents are often more anxious and bothered by these drills than are students. The reason being is that these drills are just a regular part of school for our students. The same is true when we perform fire and tornado drills. Schools are much more prepared for those events now, than ever before. However, a vital part of this entire process is the discussion that you have with your child this evening. That discussion can help alleviate any anxiety that may have been caused by the drill. Please reassure your children that by having drills, we become better prepared and are all safer as a result.
If you have any questions about this drill, or if your child is experiencing any further anxiety about the safety of their school, please reach out. We are prepared to assist. As always, if you need anything about any issue, please do not hesitate to contact our office.
Thank you for your understanding and your support. We appreciate your willingness to work with us as a team!! Have a good evening.