“Safety is not convenient” FCMS staff, teachers learn during active shooter drill

Fannin County Sheriff Dane Kirby, seated, right, and school resource officers and deputy sheriffs Anthony Walden, seated, and Jim Burrell, listen as Fannin County School System Associate Superintendent Darren Danner talks to Fannin County Middle School staff following the active shooter drill at the school. Kirby told the staff that, while there is no way to be prepared for every situation, “you’re training will kick in.”

School Resource Officer Commander and Fannin County Deputy Sheriff Lieutenant Darvin Couch talks about the importance of training with Fannin County Middle School staff members last week. Couch spoke following an active shooter drill. In back at left is Superintendent of Schools Dr. Michael Gwatney who took part in the drill.

News Observer photo/Glenn Harbison Shown following the drill are, from left, front, Scott Mathis, Lucas Roof, Connie Huff, Keshia Dover, Martha Williams, Shannon Miller, Gini Tipton, Sarah Rigdon; and back, Darren Danner, Darvin Couch, Jim Burrell, Matt Rosenberger, Charles Yannis, Mark Young, Anthony Walden, Sheriff Dane Kirby, and School Superintendent Dr. Michael Gwatney.