School administrators learning self-defense

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - After the mass murder at Sandy Hook Elementary School, teachers and administrators are looking for ways to ensure their safety and the safety of their students.

Several Springfield school principals and administrators teamed up for a lesson Wednesday night in self defense.

Michelle Heim, the Assistant Principal of the High School of Commerce, said, “Safety is on everyone's mind with the recent events and it's really important to be aware of your surroundings."

The massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School left many uncertain about their safety in the classroom.

Springfield Police Sgt. John Delaney told 22News, “It affected everyone and most of all it affects the school department and the police department."

Springfield Police analyzed the safety of Springfield schools.

Sgt. Delaney told 22News they have police officers assigned to the city's high schools and some middle schools and do periodic patrols at the others.

While they're confident they're secure, the risks remain both in and out of the classroom.

Sharon Ralls, the Asst. Principal of the Indian Orchard Elementary School, said, “It's something on my radar and something that I need to be aware of at all times so it's a risky situation where we are in the city that we live in."

These self defense classes are being offered to administrators now and will be open to all teachers in the city within the next couple of months.