As the summer draws to an end, students & staff across the nation are transitioning back into the classroom. School supplies, new book-bags, shoes, and clothes have all been purchased in preparation for a great academic year. Summer projects and reading logs have been completed and ready for submission. As our students are tucked in that final night of summer break, many parents are faced with suppressed thoughts and concerns for the safety of their children. Just one incident is too many, however, we live in a day where the value of innocence and human life is depleting. We live in a time where active shooters have stolen our sense of security for our students in the classroom.
These senseless acts of violence can happen in any city and in any neighborhood. These incidents typically last from 10-15 minutes, so they are over before law enforcement has the opportunity arrive. From these tragic, experts have prepared strategies that will increase the likelihood for our educators and students to maintain an increased level of safety. Many schools have begun implementing an ID Badge Policy, established and/or updated safety teams & plans, and training. Emergency response plans have been developed that are focused on prevention, preparation, response, and recovery.
The question is then, what can either you do, or what can we teach our students to do, for them to return home safely? Worst case scenario, if an active shooter enters the building, you must first remain calm! As simple as it sounds, remaining calm will allow you to have additional time to properly assess your immediate situation. If you feel that you are in a safe location, immediately evacuate the building. Everything in your environment at one point will become evidence, so leave your belongings and try not to disturb anything as you exit. After exiting find another secure location, one that preferably allows you to have multiple exits. Secure all the doors and windows upon entering. Call law enforcement.
If you are not able to evacuate, hide yourself behind a large solid object. If possible, barricade the door or place as many obstacles between you and the active shooter. Crouch down and spread out so that you are a more difficult target. Also, do not respond to any voice commands unless you are certain that it is law enforcement. Even if in uniform, find a means of verifying their identification. If all else fails, as a last resort attack the shooter with physical aggression. Move quickly towards them and throw what ever objects you can get your hands on towards them. If in a classroom, everyone should grab textbooks, and throw them towards the assailant. Once safe, remember to remain calm and call 9-1-1. If it becomes unsafe to talk, call 9-1-1 and leave the phone open. Please take the time to share these strategies with you students and staff.
We pray that everyone have a safe and phenomenal 2019-2020 School Year!
The Jeremy Anderson Group