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Safety, Self Defense, and Building Confidence

By Heath Halley on November 14, 2018

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News reports of the abductions of teenagers such as Molly Tibbetts just a few hours away from us have us all concerned. Our job is not only to provide a safe environment in which young people can learn but to make sure they leave our buildings with the skills to be safe in the world in which we live. Recently, on a voluntary basis after work, a group of female staff took a self-defense course offered by Midwest Martial Arts Academy here in Unionville. It was a very positive experience. We are pleased to offer that same opportunity to any high school girl, free of charge, on Tuesday, November 20th in the high school gym. Knowing what to do in a dangerous situation will give our young women the confidence they need moving on to all the challenges that lie ahead. Self-defense courses similar to this have been offered on college campuses for years; we believe it’s time to take the initiative to see that our girls have those skills as early as possible.

Faculty and staff in the high school will be offering various life skills courses on Tuesday before Thanksgiving break as well. Topics will include vehicle maintenance, interview skills, budgeting, and home ownership issues versus renting. There will also be a section on the importance of voting and how to keep up on current events. Again, building confidence is our goal. Here’s wishing you all a safe and happy Thanksgiving.

Dr. Heath Halley Ed. D.

Putnam County R-I

Office 660 (947) 3361 ext. 301

Cell 660-216-1437

"Creating Opportunities Through Quality Education"