To many, the term Lockdown is a scary word. But in reality, the word lockdown should make us all feel safe as it means we have implemented our Emergency Operations Plan (EOP). Below is what is included in our EOP and our protocols.
A Lockdown is used to secure all building occupants against a possible or known immediate threat to the well-being of the students and staff. The steady state of a building requires that all exterior doors be Locked. Any failure to conform to visitor procedures should be viewed with suspicion until that person is identified as a non-threat to the school. Individuals may enter the school without following the school’s security regulations. They may gain entry to the building via unlocked or propped-open doors. A person may also be granted entry to the building but fail to report to the office and sign in as a visitor.
Lockdowns applied (but not limited) to below hazards:
Active Shooter / Active Threat / Reports of Weapon in the Building
Civil Disturbance
Hostage
Physical/Mental Health Emergency
Medical: Blood Borne Pathogen
Terrorism
Drug and Paraphernalia Search and Seizure
Weather Related Concerns
Lockdown Procedures
Initiation: Various levels of lockdown may be prudent depending on the situation. The Principal (or designee) will make an announcement declaring a level of lockdown using the public address system.
Level 1 – secured in the building - no admittance to or exit from the building.
Level 2 – secured in classrooms – no movement in hallways.
Level 3 - secured in place – no movement within the classroom. Employ a “NightLock” door-locking device. Await further instruction.
There are immediate and long-term decisions that must be made in every scenario. Initiating a lockdown puts students and staff in a position to mitigate safety risks. At the same time, each situation is fully assessed to ensure the best course of action moving forward. Once all facts are known and a course of action has been taken, stakeholders can be informed of the incident. Due to confidentiality concerns or ongoing investigations, many details may not be able to be shared. Sharing inaccurate or confidential information in situations that are often fluid could put students and staff more at risk as time goes on.
On another note, please understand that as a daily routine, all classroom doors are to remain closed and locked (by key) during instructional time. This is to mitigate the risk of random incidents making their way into unsuspecting classrooms.
If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact me.
Jason Snively - Superintendent