06-03-2025
Area schools practice tornado safety in statewide drill
JOPLIN, Mo. — Many storm sirens across Missouri sounded today for the statewide tornado drill.
At Kelsey Norman Elementary School in Joplin, kindergarten through 5th grade students joined the rest of the district in practicing what to do when that happens.
Severe Weather Preparedness Week: Have a plan
It's a chance for staff to evaluate what's working and what's not when it comes to keeping students safe during severe weather.
Plus, it helps students understand the process and feel more comfortable about what to do should the 'real thing' ever happen.
The district's director of safety and security notes the better facilities many of the schools have now, since the May 2011 tornado — like FEMA storm shelters or modern basements.
'You know, over time you become kind of lax in preparing if you've never really actually experienced the situation that you're preparing for. But, we've had that experience and we've learned from it. I don't think just as a district, but as a community,' said Jim Hounschell, Joplin Schools director of safety & security.
The goal is to make it to safety in less than five minutes, although students and staff usually make it happen in much less time.
Joplin schools are required to practice tornado drills four times a year — or two times a semester.
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