Impact seen here in N. Mich.
MANCELONA -- Ten years ago Monday Columbine High School became synonymous with tragedy, as two students went on one of the deadliest school shooting rampages in United States history, killing 12 students and a teacher before taking their own lives.
It's a tragic reminder of what could happen in any classroom across the country; its impact has been a catalyst for change including here in northern Michigan.
"Things have changed pretty significantly because our number one concern in this building is the safety of our students," said Joe Clark, principal of Mancelona High School.
There are already a variety of safety measures in place within the Mancelona School District to ensure exactly that, that at all times students are safe.
Superintendant Jeff DiRosa says it's all about being diligent with their safety measures, knowing whose coming in and who is going out of their buildings.
The use of security cameras have also become more common place in schools.
"Just this year we've installed security cameras and it's been very helpful to us to keep an extra set of eyes out," Clark said.
No longer are students in northern Michigan classrooms just practicing tornado and fire drills. There are now plans in place, which are practiced as required by state law, for other scenarios that include intruders and armed gunmen.
Another safety measure is an ongoing relationship between the entire school community and local law enforcement.
"I think law enforcement in the schools have been working very well together, especially since Columbine," said Sheriff Dan Bean of Antrim County. "Years ago you had a police officer show up maybe once a year, but now with the DARE programs and others you're able to be in the schools longer and I think we've built that relationship, especially in Antrim County."
Unfortunately there is little truth to the thinking that "it could never happen here." That's why Clark says it's important that their approach, like many other school districts, is proactive rather than reactive for the event anything should ever occur.
"When you practice it, it becomes a part of what you do and the students know what to do and they know where to go to be safe and that is the number one priority here, the safety of the students," Clark said.
