In light of recent concerns over school safety, schools in Altus remain vigilant and prepared for any possible danger that may arise.

“We have had security measures in place for years,” says Director of Public Relations, Valerie Roberts of Altus Schools.

Roberts explained that specific safety drills are a common practice in our schools throughout the district. Fire drills, bomb drills, and lock-down exercises are routinely performed.

“There are written safety plans for each building,” said Roberts. “Our policies are continually reviewed and updated.”

Even before the most recent school shootings in other parts of the United States, Altus Police have been involved and have practiced “Active Shooter Drill,” scenarios where there is a pretend shooter in a completely empty building. They do this to train in the event of a real occurrence. There are never any children or any public present at the time of these exercises.

School administration is also conversing with Altus Air Force Base for some sort of a cooperative effort.

Recently, doors in certain areas of local schools that were typically open, are now being locked as an added safety measure.

It was a little over a month ago that 20 children and six school staff members were killed in the events that took place at Sandy Hook Elementary School, jolting the entire nation into distress and concern for the safety of our children and teachers.

Current safety policies have been reviewed since, and our local school officials are confident they have effective preparatory measures in place.