MS. Dept. of Education Examines Safety Policies

JACKSON, Miss. (AP) – The Mississippi Department of Education is reviewing its safety policies and training requirements.

December’s school shooting in Newtown, Conn., has put spotlight on those issues.

Shane McNeil, director of safe and orderly schools, tells the Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal that the state department is in the process of determining any changes that need to be made.

 McNeil says the state department conducts visits at schools to ensure compliance with existing policies, including emergency drills.

He says the state also will help local school districts with training and technical assistance to support a safe environment for the students.

 Several school districts are also reviewing their safety programs.