1,267 bomb threats during the 2015-2016 school year—a 106 percent increase compared to the same time period in 2012-2013. “I honestly think that with the news headlines of late, having an organized plan to educate the early childhood community just as the school board does, is vitally important,” says Sammons. “We must be prepared to protect our children under these catastrophic conditions. The more teachers know and train, the more con��dent they will be carry out a plan of action should they need to do so.” Prioritizing Safety So, how can Manatee County families get involved with PEARLS? “The Early Learning Coalition and local law enforcement strongly encourage Manatee County families to become involved with the PEARLS program by thoroughly embracing the concept of preparedness and helping their children understand the possibility of emergency situations,” O’Connell says. “It is important that they prepare their children by reinforcing that their teachers will give them proper instruction to safeguard them in the unfortunate instance where there is imminent danger. Encouraging their children to always listen to their teachers and quickly follow their instructions when an emergency arises is the best possible support that families can provide to this program.” “The safety of our children is high priority, and being able to get preschools on a safety standard plan is incredible,” says Lt. Perez. “I am sure that all parents who have children in one of these early learning centers would appreciate them taking these extra steps to ensure the safety of their children.” Sammons added: “It is the desire of the ELC that every early childhood teacher in Manatee County have the opportunity to be exposed to the information PEARLS can provide, therefore making the safety of children our top priority.”
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