LM Jan 2024

“If you haven’t tested your 911 to see where it actually is routed, I encourage you to do so,” Dr. Alvey told participants. “In my district, I had it tested after this and found 911 calls from Illini Bluffs schools were being routed to somewhere not near us.” Dr. Alvey and Dr. Webb also discussed statewide measures that were implemented in the wake of the horrific shooting. For example, Florida created an Office of Safe Schools that serves as a central repository of best practices, training standards and compliance oversight. In addition, a school safety specialist and mental health coordinator is required in every district. Other actions taken since then include requiring a Family Reunification Plan for every district and mandatory active shooter drills in every school. The webinar also focused on the importance of threat assessments. One key recommendation schools should consider is assigning an ad hoc spot to the Threat Assessment Team. “The 10 people on your team might not have a relationship with the student of concern,” Dr. Alvey said. “You should be inviting people in who have that relationship, not just keeping the Threat Assessment Team restricted to the people required by law.”

To close, Dr. Webb emphasized the importance of having an Assailant Policy and training staff on best practices, including substitute teachers and volunteer coaches. “Make sure you involve all of these groups in any lockdown drills and emergency communications because it will be imperative to saving lives,” he said. The IASA Spotlights Series continues January 17 with a webinar focused on literacy. The topic this month is the Science of Reading

7 LM January 2024