The two-hour session was organized by Linden Athletic Director Mike Firestone and Security Director Keith Aslin and led by Sgt. Michael J. Cataline. Representatives from law enforcement, fire services, dispatch, emergency medical services, athletic training and district departments worked through scenarios intended to clarify responsibilities and strengthen communication.
Unlike a field drill, a tabletop exercise allows participants to talk through decisions as a situation develops. The format gave the group a chance to consider how each organization would respond, where information would need to move quickly and how separate roles fit into a broader response.
District leaders said the training supports Superintendent Dr. Atiya Y. Perkins’ priorities for collaboration and student safety. It also gave participants an opportunity to review existing plans and become more familiar with the personnel who would be involved if an emergency occurred during a school athletic event.
Cataline guided the discussion with questions and added details as scenarios unfolded, prompting participants to consider the value of timely, clear communication. The exercise emphasized preparation, teamwork and trust among school personnel and emergency responders.
By gathering at the stadium, the group could focus on the setting where students, athletes, families and community members regularly come together. The training was designed to strengthen the relationships and shared understanding that support a coordinated response when it matters.
