Due to a recent shooting on September 27, the West Allis Campus was put on a lockdown by Public Safety. Some concerns have been raised about the use of the RaveAlert system which was not activated.

According to the MATC website, “the RaveAlert system is to provide emergency and school closing alert messages to students, faculty and staff. It uses e-mail, cell phone, and land lines as a means of sending out alerts.”

Kate Foth of the History Department said, “The one thing that really bothers me is that I know I never received a RaveAlert system notice like we’re supposed to in an emergency situation. There were a lot of students wandering around outside trying to get into the building shortly after the lockdown notice came over the internal speakers. Had they been notified, they would have known it wasn’t safe to be in the area.”

When asked why the RaveAlert system wasn’t activated Kathleen Hohl, Public Relations, replied, “The lockdown was initiated at 6:07 p.m. Indoor and outdoor speakers alerted faculty and staff that the lockdown was in place. West Allis Police were on the scene securing the campus and informing people about the situation. As MATC staff continued to gather information, the all clear was given at 6:44 p.m.

Due to the short duration of the lockdown and contained effect on the West Allis Campus, the decision was made not to send a RaveAlert. In the interest of maintaining a safe environment for all students, faculty and staff, MATC would have issued a RaveAlert had the need existed.”