Indiana teachers could get shot with projectiles during active-shooter training, if they agree

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Indiana lawmakers discussed a proposal Wednesday that would allow teachers to have the option of getting shot with pellets during active-shooter training.

The proposal comes on the heels of a mandatory training session in Monticello that left some teachers hurt.

The White County Sheriff’s Department hosted that training earlier this year. The teachers said they were told to crouch down in a room, in groups of four. 

The Indiana State Teachers Association said deputies then shot the teachers “execution style” with “some kind of projectile.” 

Wednesday, while discussing a teacher handgun training bill, lawmakers passed a proposed amendment making it clear that pellets or projectiles might be used during active-shooter drills. 

“It’s got to do with reality and making sure they experience the emotions and adrenaline and everything that happens in the training,” State Sen. Jeff Raatz, (R), said Wednesday. “But, it’s not required for anybody to participate. Again, it would only be if the teacher, as you mentioned, if a teacher would desire to be part of the training first of all.” 

“Allowing the pellets, as an opt-in or opt-out…or projectiles…. that’s probably better than not having language at all about that,” added Sally Sloan, executive director of the American Federation of Teachers, Indiana.

Republican State Sen. Brian Buchanan explained Wednesday that he talked to the White County Sheriff after the incident.

“All teachers were told what was going to happen, and given a chance to opt-out and shown a video of what was going to happen.” Buchanan said.

The bill will head to the Senate floor for a vote.