Keep alert in the schools
Eight years ago, I was the student/family adviser for the Linton-Stockton School System.
I lived on N.E. 4th right across from the east wing.
It took me about two minutes to walk to my office. One morning I walked out the front door. I took notice of a strange car sitting on I Street with one person on the passenger side. As I swung my head back around I saw a male striding towards the school with a backpack thrown over his shoulder. He was too old to be a student, and I did not recognize him as an employee. I began walking quickly and followed him in the doors. He continued down the hallway. I had become a hyper vigilant person after being married to a police officer for many years. This kicked right in and I picked up my pace and walked passed him. I glanced at his face and did not recognize this individual. I immediately went to the office. I spoke to Mr. Brewer.
Bart Berns and he began to follow this person. They tracked him to the door of a second grade room and then confronted him. The police were called. Later, I was informed that this person was actually there to take his child out of school and then transport him out of state. The family was involved in a custody issue. Everything worked out and no one was hurt.
This seemed to be a pertinent story to relate at this time. The safety measures at all our local schools are so very much improved. Our employees and students are trained to deal with various situations. Continued training and educating everyone about emergency procedures that may occur should always be stressed in its importance. Through my experience, we seem to eventually forget tragedies and over time, let down our guard.
We cannot live in constant fear, but we can always be very, very aware.
Tawni is a former teacher at Linton-Stockton Elementary School and can be reached by email at tawniprudhomme@gmail.com .
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