Emergency Plan

Student safety is our top priority. We have developed an Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) reflecting our commitment to maintaining a secure environment. This comprehensive plan details our systematic approach to prevent, mitigate, respond to, and recover from potential incidents.

How We Prepare for Emergencies

  • Emergency Supplies: Our schools are equipped with emergency supplies, including food, water, first aid kits, and rescue equipment. These are regularly inspected and utilized during drills.
  • Emergency Drills: Regular drills are conducted, including fire, tornado, and law enforcement (lockdown) drills, to practice procedures.
  • Emergency Operations Plan: The plan is based on the Standard Response Protocol (SRP), encompassing five actions: Hold, Secure, Lockdown, Evacuate, and Shelter.

Difference between Secure and Lockdown

  • Secure: Formerly known as “lockout” or “soft lockdown,” Secure mode minimizes exposure to external threats by securing the perimeter of the building. No one may enter or leave during this mode. Classes continue as usual, and the mode ends when the threat has passed.
  • Lockdown: This response is for imminent threats inside the building. It may include running, hiding, or fighting, depending on the situation.

In both scenarios, schools coordinate with police and fire departments, focusing on student and staff safety. Parents are urged not to contact the school during these situations; communication will occur as soon as practicable.

Safety Measures

  • Our buildings undergo annual safety inspections.
  • There is one entrance for visitors during the school day.
  • Each school has trained personnel, including a nurse, and staff take courses in disaster preparation and emergency management.

Keeping Informed

Stay informed through parent meetings, student handbooks, school newsletters, websites, and asking your child about their school’s drills. Ensure your family is prepared and aware of the district-wide Safety Help Line.

Communicating During an Emergency

Ensure your contact information is up-to-date in PowerSchool, as we may use it to contact you by phone, text, and/or email. Please avoid calling the school during an emergency and keep your phone with you for updates.

Family Reunification

In emergency situations, students will only be released to the parents, guardians, and emergency contacts listed in PowerSchool. Please bring a photo ID to the school so that we may positively identify those who are authorized to pick up the students.

Pandemic Preparedness

The District is prepared to enact prevention and response measures for communicable diseases or pandemics, in collaboration with local and State health departments.

Additional Community Resources

Various community resources are available to extend support in crises or emergencies.