Moorhead, MN (KVRR/KFGO) - Moorhead Public Schools are making changes to their lockdown policy.
A regional committee says keeping a classroom locked up in an active shooter situation could sometimes be dangerous. Supporters argue the current lockdown system limits their options since it forces them to stay inside the classroom.
Under the A.L.I.C.E. Schools Emergency Program, classrooms will be allowed to stay, hide, or even leave the building if they feel it’s the safest option.
Dan Bacon said if the classroom door is breached during an active shooter situation, all the lives inside are in danger.
“If it’s better to evacuate, they should evacuate,” Bacon said. “If it’s better to stay where they are, they should stay where they are. We want to give them the tools and some training to make it possible for them to make that decision.”
Bacon said the A.L.I.C.E. protocol is based on analysis of events like Colombine or Virginia Tech. It’s backed by the Department of Homeland Security and is already being used around the country.
The new protocol will start being used across Moorhead Public Schools when all staff members are trained in.