Catholic schools in Fall River diocese enhance safety measures

Originally published on www.herald news.com

By Beth McDermott

Brian LeBlanc of the FBI’s Boston field office during his talk this week at Bishop Feehan High School in Attleboro.
Fall River Diocese

About 550 administrators, faculty and staff from 17 Catholic schools in the Diocese of Fall River attended a recent professional development day focused on strengthening school safety and preparedness, according to a community announcement.

The event took place at Bishop Feehan High School in Attleboro. While each school already has safety and emergency protocols in place, the gathering provided an opportunity for educators to deepen their awareness, share best practices and reinforce confidence in responding to potential emergencies.

The keynote address was delivered by Brian LeBlanc, a supervisory special agent with the FBI’s Boston Field Office. LeBlanc leads the Domestic Terrorism and Threat Response Squad and directs the MassBay Threat Assessment Team, a multidisciplinary initiative focused on preventing targeted violence.

During his presentation, LeBlanc discussed the importance of preparedness and proactive planning in responding to crises. He introduced the concept of “left of boom,” a security approach that focuses on preventative actions taken before a disruptive event occurs. The strategy emphasizes awareness, risk mitigation and strengthening safety practices to help prevent crises before they unfold.

LeBlanc explained that effective preparedness is built on a layered approach that includes clear procedures, strategic positioning, attentive observation and decisive action. 

“Preparedness builds confidence and clarity creates calm,” LeBlanc said. “Safe schools are built through people, culture, and decision-making. Early action is timely action.”

Participants were divided into three groups by school grade levels and rotated through three training sessions: Threat Assessment, Verbal Intervention Training, and Stop the Bleed: Emergency Bleeding Response for School Staff.

Sessions were led by Frank Matthews, a former Massachusetts state trooper, and John Reilly, former police chief of North Attleborough. Both now work with Matthews and Matthews LLC, a firm specializing in security, investigations and management consulting. Carolyn Shipp, director of Safe Environment and Victim Assistance; Christine M. Leeman, director of Safety and Security; and Anna Manny, school nurse manager, also led sessions.

The day began with a blessing and welcome from Fall River Bishop Edgar M. daCunha, S.D.V., who emphasized the diocese’s commitment to the safety and well-being of the students, staff and families served by its Catholic schools.

“You do more than teach; you are entrusted with the safety and well-being of the students in your care,” da Cunha said. “We are here not as a response to a crisis, but as a reflection of the Diocese’s ongoing commitment to creating a safe and secure environment for all.”

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