Another spate of bomb threats and hoaxes last week and another several days of education lost responding to this thoughtless routine. When you consider the time and effort that is expended by emergency responders and school officials, you understand that this is a colossal waste of money. Add to that the aftershocks that often accompany hoaxes, the result of miscommunication or misguided fear, and it becomes clear that more must be done to react properly and maximize the consequences of these actions.
In August, I was joined by the Department of Education in the Freehold Regional School District to discuss with nearly all of the school districts and law enforcement branches in the 12th Legislative District best practices regarding threats to schools, real or fake. Knowing that the first priority is to protect students and staff, Scott Kisch, Chief of Staff for the Office of Homeland Security, was also on hand to provide insight for the group.
In immediate response to some of the concerns that were discussed, I am drafting legislation to maximize the potential use of drills in schools. This legislation will alter the current codes which require two fire drills a month, instead calling for one fire drill and one school security drill a month. While the thought of conducting active shooter, reverse evacuation, shelter in place and other exercises may be daunting, recent events (like the lockdown at St. Johns this week) and the annual rash of false threats tells us more must be done to prepare and prevent.
Parents, teachers and others must regularly emphasize the harm and the consequences of such negligence. I support legislation that will increase the potential penalties for individuals who cause false alarms. This, along with preparation and education will help educators and administrators focus on the task at hand, teaching.