Holyoke officials stress preparation, communication as part of school safety plans [Video]

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WGGB/WSHM) – Following the deadly school shooting in Wisconsin, one local school district explained how safety drills play a role in the community.

“Unfortunately, it happens way too often,” said Holyoke Public Schools Superintendent and Receiver Anthony Soto.

In the wake of the Wisconsin deadly school shooting, we got answers from Holyoke school officials on how a local school system prepares for the unthinkable. “Right now, we’re in the process of completing all of our lockdown drills,” Soto added.

Soto leads the district and his team said the response strategy is ever-changing. “We have a crisis team and it’s a collaboration between district leaders, we have a teacher, an administrator,” he explained.

Add in first responders and they all come together once-a-month. “They’re charged with making sure our crisis plans are up-to-date,” Soto noted.

We obtained template emails prepared to notify families of lockdown plans and what they …