Safe Schools Workshop Held

August 15, 2011
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Safe Schools Association Conducts Workshop At Bellaire Elementary

Cumberland County, Pennsylvania- On August 9, the Cumberland County Safe Schools Association in conjunction with the Cumberland County Department of Public Safety held a school violence workshop at the Bellaire Elementary School. This workshop was offered to all school district employees in Cumberland County with 96 attending.

This workshop, unique to this area, placed participants in classrooms as an active shooter situation was simulated. While the workshop helped participants understand the actions they should take in an active shooter situation, the true purpose of the event was to help them understand the emotions and reactions they will have during and after an event. Workshop planners simulated the sounds, sights and smells of an actual event in hopes of better preparing teachers and administrators. After the simulation, mental health experts were on hand to discuss some of the emotions participants felt and offered information how they could assist fellow teachers and children after such an event.

The Cumberland County Safe Schools Association is a conglomeration of school district officials, emergency services personnel and county officials that work collectively towards a common goal of maintaining a safe and secure learning environment for students in Cumberland County. This group meets regularly and provides training throughout the year for school officials to meet their goal.

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