Practice-Practice-Practice!!

This morning at Belle Plaine we did several things to help make our school safer for all students and staff.  In cooperation with the Belle Plaine Police Department and Benton and Tama County Sheriff's Deputies we conducted a search of the premises with drug dogs.  While the school and parking lots were checked we also practiced a lockdown situation with all students and staff.  Teachers were asked to locks their doors and keep students in the classes during the drill.  Students were also asked to place cell phones on desks or tables during the lockdown.  This was done because in the case of an actual emergency, we would not want students and staff using cell phones that could potentially block the access to cell service emergency personnel may need to communicate with other responders or school staff.

I'm very happy to report that both the school and parking lots were clear of any illegal substances.  Belle Plaine police also did a check of the entire perimeter of the building during the drill and found every door securely locked.  Teachers and students also did a great job during the lockdown drill.  As district administrators and staff receive additional training in the ALICE program we will conduct additional drills in the future to better prepare ourselves for an emergency situation should one ever occur.