Knowing nothing about the school, my first question on hearing the news was about the college (and agreeing with guest that the 'news' and 'situation rooms' don't have a clue).

Dawson is a relatively new institution (1969) and is the first English language school in Quebec's "Cegep."
The college offers some 25 pre-university programs covering many fields. It is somewhat similar to the 'community colleges' in other parts of Canada and the United States. It serves an important role in preparing students to make their choices for advanced education and career choices. Some 10,000 students (Mortreal is a large metropolitan center, mostly French-speaking but with a large immigrant population who must learn French if they are to live in Quebec.

I just renewed my 'gun' license, required (but only about 60% observed) here in Canada. It is a useless exercise, since the drug dealers and gangs have no problems in obtaining the latest in armament. Gangs here in Calgary are well-armed (members mostly SE Asian and Caribbean).

My offensive weapon is a rifle that belonged to a pioneer great-grandfather. It is kept clean, but if loaded with modern shells, it would probably explode.