UPDATE: Springfield officials conducted a critical active shooter drill at Mary Dryden School on October 23, 2023, simulating a mass casualty situation to prepare educators, police, and medical personnel for real-life emergencies. This intense training event, involving over 100 volunteers, aimed to enhance response strategies in the wake of increasing concerns over school safety.
Participants experienced a scenario with no predetermined script, emphasizing the importance of instinctual reactions during crises. “The plan is there is no plan,” stated Police Captain Brian Beliveau, the event commander. His approach allowed volunteers to navigate their roles as victims, staff, and students without guidance, reflecting the chaos of an actual shooting.
Just after 9:15 a.m., a police officer portraying the shooter entered the school with a fake rifle, igniting panic as gunfire erupted. The first officers arrived within three minutes, confronting the simulated shooter, who was “killed” shortly thereafter. The urgency of the situation was underscored when an officer reminded his colleagues that victims were still in need of immediate medical attention.
This drill marks the third consecutive year Springfield’s police, firefighters, and dispatchers have collaborated with external agencies, including American Medical Response and Mercy Medical Center, to conduct full-scale training exercises. The focus has shifted to smaller schools this year, allowing for a more tailored response strategy.
Following a series of false alarms in local schools and a recent incident involving gunfire at the High School of Science and Technology, the drill comes at a pivotal moment. “We will roll out best practices and look at new tactics,” said Adam Fenn, director of safety and security for Springfield schools.
During the drill, first responders utilized the nearby Frederick Harris School as a reunification center for families seeking information about their loved ones. This realistic setup aimed to mirror the complexity of actual emergency situations, facilitating better preparation among first responders.
Participants engaged in a mock press conference where Ryan Walsh, police spokesman, reported that four individuals, including the shooter, had died, with eight others injured—seven of whom suffered serious wounds. These statistics highlight the potential gravity of real scenarios and the necessity of thorough training.
Volunteer staff, like special education teacher Marlene Gilling-Fong, emphasized the importance of being prepared. “I felt at least one staff member has to be empowered to take charge if something like this happens,” she remarked, reflecting the emotional weight of the drill.
The participation of 22 AMR staff members as responders and victims further illustrates the collaborative effort to refine emergency protocols. “Working with other public safety departments is not an opportunity we have often, so we appreciate being involved in this,” said Kim D’Angelo, a paramedic and operations manager.
As a critical follow-up, participants will review the responders’ actions and analyze the drill step-by-step, aiming to identify areas for improvement. This holistic approach to active shooter training underscores the community’s commitment to safety and preparedness in the face of evolving threats.
As discussions about school safety continue, this drill serves as a stark reminder of the importance of readiness in protecting students and staff in an unpredictable world. The Springfield community is urged to stay informed and engaged as they navigate these urgent safety concerns together.
