Resources for School Safety

Hold - this safety protocol can be initiated when the hallways need to be kept clear due to a situation inside or outside of the building.  Students and staff are instructed to clear the halls and remain securely in a classroom or area until the situation is resolved. Behind Classroom doors, it's business as usual, although students may remain in the class longer than the dismissal bell.  Examples: A medical emergency or safety situation in the hallway where emergency responders or law enforcement need to address the situation. 

Secure - building is put in secure. School staff move all students and activities inside and ensure the building is locked while learning continues inside the school with minimal classroom interruption or distractions. Examples: Law enforcement activity such as serving warrants in the neighborhood; report of dangerous wildlife; dispute outside of the building

LockDOWN - building is put on lockDOWN due to perceived danger inside or very near the building. All students and staff are trained to get behind a locked door - Locks, Lights, Out of Sight. In the rare event that a student cannot get behind a locked door, they are trained in self-evacuation protocols. Examples: Threat inside the school; emergency or dangerous situation very near the building.

Evacuate - students and staff are moved to a new or safe location due to a situation in or near the school building. Examples: Gas leak in the school; unsafe situation near school affecting release times.

Shelter - students and staff are instructed to take safe shelter due to a situation in or near the school. Examples: Tornado, earthquake or other natural events.

While the names are very similar and are often confused, they differ greatly in their meanings, purpose and level of severity.