In a proactive effort to enhance school safety and preparedness, Bartonville Police Department, in coordination with Illinois State Police, Peoria County, the U.S. Marshals Service, and Bartonville Fire Department, conducted an intensive Active Assailant Training at Limestone Community High School on August 5, 2024. All Bartonville Police Department Officers, including LCHS School Resource Officer, participated in the drill. This collaborative training exercise aimed to bolster the readiness and response capabilities of local law enforcement and first responders in the event of an active assailant scenario.
The LCHS administrative team observed and listened in on the training, underscoring the school's commitment to safety. The exercise included a series of simulated scenarios designed to test the coordination and effectiveness of the participating agencies. By engaging in realistic and high-pressure situations, first responders and law enforcement officers were able to refine their strategies, improve communication, and ensure swift and effective action in the face of potential threats.
Partnering with local law enforcement and first responders for trainings such as this is critical for Limestone Community High School. Student and staff safety is our top priority and drills like this reinforce our commitment to creating a safe and secure education environment where learning can thrive without the fear of violence or disruption.
In addition to training exercises, LCHS is steadfast in our mission to prevent acts which threaten school safety. The school’s Behavioral Threat Assessment Team works diligently to identify and mitigate potential risks. The school emphasizes the importance of community involvement in maintaining a safe environment. It is essential for anyone with information regarding potential threats to school safety report it immediately to the school directly or to local law enforcement. LCHS partners with Safe2HelpIL, a confidential reporting system that empowers students, staff, and community members to report concerns discretely and swiftly. All LCHS stakeholders are encouraged to embrace the need to, “see something, say something, and do something.” This collective vigilance is crucial in identifying and addressing threats before they escalate.
Together, we are committed to fostering a safe, supportive, and secure environment for all students and staff at Limestone Community High School.