Response
when a report is made
After receiving a safety report, school officials act quickly while working to keep the information contained and confidential, including protecting the reporter's identity. We respect the need for anonymous reporting, and principals are mindful of this. We also acknowledge that mass panic caused by unverified reports only heightens fear and anxiety. When a report is received of a possible threat or contraband on campus, school administration, alongside law enforcement, act immediately to isolate the student in question.
Classrooms and office doors are locked, and instruction continues inside. No one is allowed to enter or exit the campus due to a potential threat. A secure campus is a precautionary response that allows the school to quickly transition to a lockdown if needed.
All students and staff remain in their classrooms or offices with doors and windows secured. This procedure is enacted to protect against external airborne contaminants, such as during a hazardous air quality incident.
Students and staff are secured in the closest building, doors are locked, windows are covered, and lights are turned off. Normal school operations are stopped due to a confirmed and immediate threat on or near campus.
Students and staff are relocated to a predetermined safe area. This safety action is taken when outside is safer than within the campus, such as during a fire.
Internal Emergency Management System
During drills and emergencies, school staff and district staff utilize an emergency management tool to communicate quickly with one another. This system provides clear steps for handling different emergencies, ensuring everyone knows what to do when it matters most. The system also allows for two-way communication with every teacher on campus for real-time updates and check-ins.
Site Safety teams
In an emergency, each school’s Site Safety Team—made up of teachers, administrators, and support staff—immediately activates to safeguard our students and staff. These dedicated teams are prepared to respond effectively, relying on their training and collaboration with the Department of Emergency Preparedness and Safety, local law enforcement, and emergency responders.
District Incident Command Team
During an emergency, the District Incident Command Team forms a Joint Information Center (JIC) to share timely updates among the team, law enforcement, and any other relevant public agency.
For example, a key member of the Incident Command Team is our Coordinator of Operations. If there is a winter storm and a tree has collapsed on a school campus, the Director of Operations sends a maintenance team within minutes.
how you can support
If you notice any suspicious activity, online or in person, report it to local law enforcement or school officials. Your vigilance is vital for our community's security.
Additionally, families should discuss the four key safety terms with their children—Lockdown, Secure Campus, Shelter-in-Place, and Evacuation. Understanding these terms and knowing what to do will help children be better prepared during emergencies.
We also encourage you to speak with your children or students about the priority of their safety. Reassure them that every adult on their school campus is trained and ready to respond should an emergency occur.