This is a reminder that classes will be dismissed at Benton Community at 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, August 21st. Benton Community employees will be participating in A.L.I.C.E. training during the afternoon. Below is information regarding the training.
The Benton CSD has adopted a new policy and procedure that
we as well as experts across the country believe will increase the chance of
survival during an active shooter incident in a school. This new procedure will
teach our staff and students the A.L.I.C.E. system. The training acronym stands for ALERT
/LOCKDOWN /INFORM /COUNTER /EVACUATE.
By using this procedure we will teach our staff and students how to
handle an armed intruder/active shooter if they are to enter the students
secure area by emphasizing the following:
- · Listen carefully to the location and type of event.
- · Get to and /or remain in a secure area until it is safe to evacuate.
- · Should an armed intruder/active shooter enter the student or staff area it is important to apply skills to distract, confuse and possibly gain control of the situation.
- · As soon as it is safe to do so, evacuate.
In no way are we asking or teaching our students and staff
to make any attempt to subdue an armed gunman outside of their secure
area. However, we will provide them the
knowledge that if faced with a life or death situation there are methods that
can be applied to greatly enhance their chance of survival. The training will emphasize that the best way
to survive an active shooter is to escape. When that is not possible, being
mentally prepared and having been given the authority and ability to act will
save lives.
The Benton Community Board of Education has endorsed this
training for staff and students. Sessions will be scheduled for
students during the school year in an assembly based format. Parents will be notified as these student
sessions are scheduled.
