(Spirit Lake)– School safety is once again at the forefront with the start of classes now just a couple of days away. It was the topic of a special meeting Monday evening of the Spirit Lake School Board. Board members voted unanimously in favor of a proposal and policy revision that will authorize Superintendent Dr. David Smith to designate up to 10 staff members who are willing, none of them teachers, to carry a concealed weapon in school buildings. Those who receive the designation will be required to undergo a certified, licensed training program through Petersen Firearms Instruction. School attorney Steve Avery told board members state law granted schools the power to take such action a couple of years ago. Dr. Smith says this would serve as another important tool to assist in keeping kids, teachers, faculty and administrators safe…
Dr. Smith added the policy that was approved Monday evening comes after a substantial amount of research and meetings with law enforcement, including Spirit Lake Police Chief Shane Brevik and Dickinson County Sheriff Greg Baloun…
Sheriff Baloun was at Monday evening’s meeting. He commended the Spirit Lake School Board for taking the action…
Dr. Smith says the guns will likely be owned by the school district to ensure uniformity for training purposes and operations. Plans call for some of the armed personnel to also be present at home athletic events and other activities at the schools.
The board also Monday evening unanimously approved updated policies and procedures for emergency drills and active shooter training sessions.
In a written statement released following Monday evening’s meeting, Superintendent Dr. Smith added “Having this policy in place serves as a deterrent for anyone who might consider entering our schools with the intent to do harm.” It goes on to say “the enhanced safety policy will supplement the other safety features the district has in place, including, but not limited to, locked doors, security cameras, additional mental health supports, and a district resource officer. The district will also continue to utilize its comprehensive safety plan, provide staff and students with age appropriate training, and review other safety measures that add additional layers of security to its facilities.”
