Over the years, many terms have been used to describe the status of our schools during an emergency. It’s essential that our students, staff, parents, and community understand the current terminology we are using to respond to various situations. Please note the following:
STAY PUT: (Movement is restricted within the building due to an unexpected event)
Classrooms are locked and secured, and access to the school is restricted. Students remain inside their classrooms, and all students must be accounted for.
Example: A "Stay Put" status may be implemented in the event of a disturbance, an individual requiring medical attention, or an urgent maintenance issue needing to be addressed. There could also be a Stay Put order in place if a threat is being investigated, such as if the school and first responders were evaluating a social media threat.
SECURED PERIMETER: (Movement is restricted outside the building due to a potential safety concern)
Exterior doors are locked, and access to the school is restricted. Regular school day activities will continue inside the building, but activities outside the building are not permitted. Until the school is advised by Law Enforcement, no one may leave or enter the building while a Secured Perimeter is in effect.
Example: A "Secure Perimeter" order may be implemented in the event of a suspicious person in the neighborhood or by order of law enforcement officials.
LOCKDOWN: (There is a risk of imminent life-threatening danger)
Classrooms are locked and secured, and access to the school is restricted. Classrooms must take appropriate actions based on the situation (including rapid evacuation, barricade, etc.). We only use the term, Lockdown, when there is a direct threat to the people inside the building.
SHELTER IN PLACE: (Movement is restricted within the building)
Move all students and staff inside the building to a secured area.
Example: A "Shelter in Place" order may be implemented during a severe weather incident, chemical spill, or crash scene near the school.