Editor,
So, Mr. Dobson, you think that “lockdown drills” at Carmel Elementary are “reactionary, ridiculous” responses to “a rare and horrifying occurrence?”
I suppose you think that a fire drill and a tornado drill are ridiculous and reactionary, also. Would you prefer that the children be unaware of what to do in the unlikely event that any of those situations occur? Do you realize what kind of chaos and possible serious injury would result in that case when the children would be running in many different directions unsure of what to do, screaming hysterically and frightened out of their minds? I am retired from the Carmel Clay Schools after 29 years with the elementary-age children. We practiced lockdown drills for several years, not just in response to the rare occurrence you alluded to. The children were always lovingly told that it was just a drill, much like a fire drill, and they did not need to be afraid. The teachers and support staff handled the drills with calm assurance, and the children took it in stride. Those in charge offered to answer any questions the children might have, so each drill was an educational tool used to help the students to “be aware but not wary.”
The school staff is trained by local law enforcement officials about appropriate procedures to implement in case of a “real” intruder. I can assure you that no adult in the school system intends to take away any child’s “beautiful and inspiring innocence.”
Karla Katterhenry
46032