Since last school year, South Bend School District has been reviewing protocols and procedures related to student and staff safety. This process involved a review of current protocols, individual building reviews of procedures, and analysis of perceived needs based on staff feedback. As a result of this work, the district identified the need for a simple, yet standardized protocol that could be used in all buildings and grade levels.
Beginning this school year, we are implementing the
Standard Response Protocol (SRP). This program was developed by the
'i love you guys' foundation and is based on nationwide research into best practices in responding to school threats. The protocol consists of four components: Lockout, Lockdown, Evacuate, and Shelter. One of the positive effects of SRP is the common language and processes used throughout the grades. Students and staff learn specific commands and methods that carry through our entire school system.
Lockout
Lockout is initiated when a perceived threat is detected outside our buildings, resulting in locking and securing our building perimeter. Students are trained to return to the inside of our buildings where school continues as usual. Teachers and staff are trained to recover students from outside the buildings, account for all students and staff members, increase situational awareness, and continue school as usual.
Lockdown
While the Lockout component results in returning students and staff to the inside of our buildings and securing all exterior doors, the Lockdown is different. Lockdown results when a threat is detected
inside our buildings. The standard command that initiates the Lockdown is, "Lockdown! Locks, Lights, out of Sight!" During Lockdown, students are trained to move away from sight and maintain silence. Teachers and staff are trained to lock the classroom door, turn off all lights, and move away from sight.
Evacuate
When conditions require an evacuation of the buildings, an Evacuate command will be given. During Evacuate, students are trained to leave their things behind, bring their phone (if available), and form a single file line. Teachers and staff are trained to grab roll sheets (if available), lead students to the evacuation location, and take roll.
Shelter
The Shelter command will be given when conditions require staff and students to shelter in place. This could occur inside our buildings, at an evacuation point, or any other place requiring such action. Students are trained in various safety strategies. Teachers and staff are trained to assist students during a Shelter, account for students, and report injuries and/or problems to first responders.
Continuing Efforts
Part of being prepared for incidents is practicing various scenarios. So far this school year, we have conducted both a Lockout and Lockdown drill at all buildings. Each drill is followed by staff meetings to collect input and questions in an effort to increase efficiency. We are also in talks with the South Bend Police Department to communicate our efforts and to take any feedback or guidance on how we can more effectively execute our protocols.
As we further implement the Standard Response Protocol, we will continue to communicate essential information to parents. If parents have specific questions as to the SRP for a specific building, they should contact the building principal at 360-875-6041.
