Tri-County Community College recieves timely safety grant from Homeland Security
By Lizz Harold Staff Writer

Tri-County Community College has recieved a federal grant from Homeland Security in the amount of $19,090 that will go towards bettering the school's safety procedures.

The grant, which was applied for on March 6th, 2007, will provide it's funds for equipment and several courses that range from handling multi-hazards in schools to mass fatality response on campus. The federal grant was sent to the State Board of Community Colleges in Raleigh and was competitive amongst other community colleges in the state.

Tri-County Community College was one of 43 community colleges in the state that recieved funds.

Many of the courses are available to administration, staff, first responders, and teachers while the Multi- Hazards in Schools course allows teachers, students, bus drivers, volunteers, and even parents to participate.

The training will be taught on both Cherokee and Clay County campuses.

In light of the recent massacre at Virginia Tech, the value of the classes available serve a purpose that is now at the forefront of consideration for school officials across the nation.

"I hope the grant helps us," commented Terrie Kelly, vice president for Institutional Advancement at Tri-County Community College. "School security is on everyone's minds."