Ken Ton implements emergency plan

TONAWANDA, N.Y. (WIVB) - Release from Ken-Ton Schools: Kenmore-Town of Tonawanda Union Free School District Superintendent Mark P. Mondanaro immediately implemented the District’s Emergency Plan upon learning from the Town of Tonawanda Police Department that at least five bottles believed to be homemade over-pressure devices were found at the Brighton Golf Course and three devices on the field at the District owned Green Acres Building.

The Superintendent immediately formulated an emergency action plan and ordered a “Shelter in Place” directive that essentially serves as a lock down to protect students and keep them in one location while schools were searched across the District.

Students who were in district buildings were ordered to remain at one central location within their respective schools. Kenmore-Town of Tonawanda Union Free School District Buildings and Grounds workers, district staff, and police performed sweeps and searches of buildings to look for more over pressure devices.

“It is better to be safe than sorry concerning the safety and well being of our students. As Superintendent I immediately implemented a short-term action plan, gathered most senior staff, and met with administrators on how to protect children from these crude and potentially dangerous devices. We do not want to spread panic in any way. But it is important to communicate with our families to make them aware of this situation,” said Kenmore-Town of Tonawanda Union Free School District Superintendent Mark P. Mondanaro.

An immediate sweep of buildings and grounds took place by Buildings and Grounds staff to search for any bottles, more often than not plastic bottles, especially those with tin foil and containing a cloudy liquid. Students were placed in a temporary lock-down while buildings were searched. All district staff was made aware of exactly what to look for and given the non-emergency number for the Town of Tonawanda Police Department.

If someone notices any type of plastic bottle or container that appears to have liquid in the community, police recommend to stay as far away as possible and to contact the Town of Tonawanda Police Department immediately at 876-5300.

“The safety and well being of students is our primary concern. It is better to be safe rather than sorry and to contact the police immediately. These crude devices can be dangerous. Police do not want students or staff to touch any unattended bottles,” said Mondanaro.

Supervisors of all internal and external district programs housed with youth have been notified of the safety procedures put in place by the Superintendent and Administrative team. All district owned properties and buildings are being searched. The Kenmore-Tonawanda UFSD will continue to partner, collaborate, and work under the guidance of the Town of Tonawanda Police Department, who is also being advised by the Erie County Emergency Ordinance Disposal Team.

“We feel children are safe and we will continue summer activities in schools across the District,” added Mondanaro.