The Anna Independent School District is considering a new plan called the “Defender Program” that would arm carefully screened and trained staff and teachers against possible intruders.
The plan is still in development and must be finalized and approved by the school board.
“This is still in the planning stages,” said Anna ISD Superintendent Pete Slaughter.
According to Slaughter, the plan would be for staff to participate under a strictly voluntary basis. The staff member would go through extensive mental health screening, train with the Anna Police Department and likely provide his or her own weapon.
The district plans on allowing real firearms if the plan moves forward, but is taking input as to whether guns should be locked away, loaded or if pepper spray would be a good alternative.
Slaughter said growth in Anna has led to a population of about 3,000 students, but there is still only one school resource officer for the entire district. While they are seeking funding for more SROs, Slaughter said the Defender Program would help them provide “as much coverage as possible.”
Anna Police Lt. Jeff Caponera said his department would offer active shooter simulation training for any staff member who wishes to carry on campus.
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“What we’ve offered to do is send them through our use of force scenarios with our officers,” Caponera said. “I think the program could be very successful.”
Slaughter said the most important part of the process right now is gathering public input. The district is holding a town hall meeting for parents at Anna High School on Thursday at 7 p.m.
If the plan goes forward, Slaughter said the AISD school board could vote on the issue either later in February or March.
