St. Ignace Area Schools had a "lockdown" drill at 8:30 a.m. Monday, January 25, as part of a twiceyearly exercise to prepare staff and students for the possibility of a dangerous or violent situation.

Superintendent Mike Springsteen said the district cooperated with State Police and St. Ignace City Police to drill the schools. The exercise lasted about 15 minutes.

"The police are involved, along with the principals," Mr. Springsteen said. "They go around and inspect and see what procedures have been followed."

There are set procedures in place to deal with a number of possible situations, he said, and the district plans different types of drills each time to help everyone prepare for various crises.

Monday's drill went well, Mr. Springsteen said, and the practice helps students and teachers see the procedures as routine.