Emerson High School uses the Commissioned School Security Officer program

EL DORADO, Ark. (KTVE/KARD) — Emerson High School allows teachers to now be armed. This is the 2nd year that they decided to implement the Commissioned School Security Officer Program. The safety of the school is the main focus with the nearest police department being miles away. KTVE/KARD spoke with superintendent David Downs about why he felt this needed to be implemented.

Number one is just absolute safety of our students and our staff. That’s it, that’s it. We’re not going to. We’re not gone be. We’re not gone be activated I guess you’d say unless there is an event of an active shooter. We don’t, you know we’re not the police. We’re not. We are only going to be here for event. lord forbids of an active shooter. It gives us some response. That’s the. that’s the biggest reason

David Downs

Training can be very hard and difficult. Training needs to be efficient so proper safety can be maintained. Those who participate in the program train every year and also throughout the school year. Emerson High School takes this as serious as possible for the protection of the school. For any schools who may be interested but have concerns, Downs expressed what he feels schools should consider.

Look at the alternatives.. so, so look at the data. Understand that in the event that of a school shooter, if you don’t have anyone in your district or in your building that is armed, what are you really going to do to protect your students?

David Downs

Emerson High School plans to keep this implemented for years to come. There is no reason why that should change anytime soon.