What to Expect During a School Emergency

  • The first priority for school staff during an emergency is to ensure the safety of students, other staff members and any guests who are on campus at the time. Emergency situations can cause disruptions to regular communication, schedules and plans. We've provided information on what families can expect during an emergency situation and how to best support the safety of students and staff. 
     
    Schools work with students to prepare them for situations by conducting drills each year. Some may be as simple as the traditional fire and evacuation drill, while others focus on lockdown situations and intruders on campus. The purpose is never to scare students, or parents, but to give them the skills and knowledge needed to remain safe during an emergency situation.  
     

    Students' Role in an Emergency

     
    Students should understand and follow all plans applicable to the given crisis. 
    • Students should not panic. In the absence of adult direction, decide where it is safest to be and remain there.
    • If a violent situation occurs, notify the nearest school staff member.
    • Share all relevant information with law enforcement, teachers, and school staff.
    • During and after the crisis, to the extent that is safe, keep your belongings with you, do not pick anything up, and do not go back for anything until receiving clearance.
    • Calm and reassure fellow students.
    • Do not perpetuate rumors to others. This includes via text message or social media. We want parents and students to have accurate information, not rumors.

     Families' Role in an Emergency

    • Stay calm during a school emergency.
    • Your attitude/actions conveyed to students in person or by cell phone communication may be traumatic, especially to young children.
    • Make sure your emergency contact numbers are updated and on file in the office.
    • During a school emergency, listen carefully to emergency notification messages. Check district (https://www.sanjuan.edu) and school web pages as phone communication may be interrupted due to excessive calls.
    • Do not allow the media, against your will, to pressure you to be interviewed during a crisis.
    • Rely on factual information from the school district or law enforcement.
    • Frequently rumors may surface.
    • Recognize that crisis counseling services will be available for you or a child affected by a crisis. 
    • Please contact a school administrator or counselor about accessing counseling resources.
Last Modified on February 11, 2021