Jefferson Schools Prepared for Critical Incident

The boy scout motto is “be prepared.” While most, if not all, school districts have some kind of emergency plans in place, it must be difficult to be ready for an incident like the one that happened in Chardon, Ohio. Student T.J. Lane admitted to firing 10 shots at a group of students in the Chardon High School cafeteria on Monday. Three have since died, one is in serious condition at an area hospital and one has been released from the hospital and is home with her family, according to news reports.

What would happen in if a similar incident were to occur? According to superintendent Dr. Kathaleen Fuchs, the district is as prepared as it can be for such circumstances.

“I believe we must all share the responsibility for maintaining a safe and secure learning environment for our students. It is a primary concern,” Fuchs said.

As such, the school has developed a Response to Critical Incidents procedure in consultation with the Jefferson Township Police Department and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office.

“We have numerous plans in place and have done drills at the schools,” said Jefferson police captain Eric Wilsusen. “We don’t publicize those plans, though, as we wouldn’t want a potential assailant to see them to plan an attack.”

“This effort was designed to enhance communication and to coordinate efforts—resulting in strengthened emergency responses to critical incidents such as an active shooter,” Fuchs said.

In addition, the district has school resource officers, so there is police presence in or around the buildings during the school day.

Fuchs said that teachers will discuss incidents like what happened in Chardon if they present a teachable moment in the classroom or if a teacher is approached by a student for a one-on-one discussion.

Jefferson also has a crisis response protocol in effect in the guidance department.

“This protocol response can range from counseling to meet the needs of an individual student to one that is more wide spread,” Fuchs said. “In addition, the district has county services available if a need arises and more resources are required.”

County resources include The Morris County Traumatic Loss Coalition, St. Clare’s Behavioral Health Center and Morris County Prevention is Key.