Gravette School District recently concluded a week-long safety training course that brought together local law enforcement and school administrators. School leaders from Gravette, Gentry, and Decatur, along with personnel from the Benton County Sheriff’s Office, gathered at the Lion Community Learning Center for training presented by the national School Shield program.
The event was hosted by the sheriff’s office in partnership with Gravette School District, and it centered around assessing safety protocols and reinforcing the relationship between educators and law enforcement. School Shield Safety Trainer Don Alwes explained, “Both sides learn from each other. It’s not just about what we’re teaching them, it’s about what they’re learning from each other throughout the week.”
Trainers with experience in school security assessments guided staff through structured evaluations of school facilities, emergency plans, and best practices. While the program emphasized the importance of preparedness, instructors also praised the strong foundation already in place at Gravette Schools. "The trainers were very complimentary of what we’re already doing." shared Taos Jones, Principal of Gravette Middle School, "That was one of my goals, I wanted them to leave here talking about Gravette and the work we’re doing."
Gravette Middle School Assistant Principal Cory Briggs receives safety certificate
Gravette School District remains committed to proactive safety measures, regularly conducting drills and evaluations to ensure students and staff are prepared. Last Wednesday, while administrators were training with law enforcement, the Transportation Department conducted a district-wide bus evacuation drill. Students practiced exiting the buses quickly and calmly, memorizing the procedure. These drills are part of Gravette’s ongoing commitment to preparedness, ensuring both students and staff know how to respond effectively in real-world scenarios.
The School Shield training and regular safety drills are only a few examples of our proactive approach to emergency preparedness. With a strong foundation already in place and a dedication to continuous improvement, our staff remains steadfast in providing a safe and secure learning environment where students can thrive.
