LockDOWN FAQ

A lockdown is a safety response used when there’s a confirmed or potential threat inside the school—such as a violent intruder or a volatile situation. The goal is to minimize visibility, noise and movement until first responders secure the building. 

• All classroom doors are locked. 
• Lights are turned off. 
• Students and staff stay quiet and out of sight. 
• Instruction and movement stop. 
• No one is allowed to enter or exit until law enforcement gives the all-clear. 

Anyone who sees a credible threat can initiate a lockdown. The goal is to act immediately. Staff, students or emergency dispatch can start the process using the school’s alert systems. 

• Family members should not go to the school. This creates safety and traffic concerns and interferes with law enforcement from responding.  
• Stay available to receive updates via ParentSquare or the Highline website. 
• Avoid calling your child or the school or district offices during the lockdown. 
• Wait for official instructions, including if and where to pick up your child. 

We will communicate through email, text messages phone calls, and the ParentSquare app. There may be multiple messages as the situation unfolds. 

Sometimes. In the initial moments of a lockdown, silence is critical. Later, teachers may allow brief texts home (e.g., “I’m okay. I’ll update you when I can”). This can help reduce stress for both students and families. 

It varies. Lockdowns may last from several minutes to several hours, depending on the situation and law enforcement protocols. 

In most incidents, law enforcement clears each room individually. Once the threat is resolved, families will be notified. If needed, evacuation and reunification plans will follow. 

Leaving a secure space during a lockdown can be dangerous. Remaining inside with the door locked is statistically the safest place to be until help arrives. 

Students are directed to find the nearest secure location or evacuate away from danger if needed. Staff are trained to help students in these situations. 

Yes. Schools practice lockdown drills at least twice per year to ensure everyone knows what to do. Drills are always announced and do not include simulated violence. 

All staff receive annual training on lockdown procedures, including how to secure classrooms, communicate with students, and respond calmly.  

Lockdown drills are age-appropriate. For younger students, we focus on listening to the adult, staying quiet, and moving to a safe spot. The tone is calm and reassuring—just like a fire drill.  

Counselors and support staff are available for students and staff after any lockdown or drill. We encourage anyone who needs help to reach out. 

Lockdowns are called whenever there’s a potential threat inside or near the building. The goal is always to act quickly and err on the side of caution. Even if the threat turns out to be a false alarm, we prioritize safety first. 

Dismissal may be delayed. We will communicate with families as soon as we’re able. Students will only be released when law enforcement gives the all-clear, and it’s safe to do so. 

Staff are trained to manage urgent medical needs during emergencies. If your child has a health condition, make sure their care plan is current and on file with the school nurse. 

If an evacuation and reunification are needed, we will follow our reunification plan. Families will receive clear instructions on where to go, what to bring and what to expect. 

We understand the instinct to check on your child. However, arriving at the school or overwhelming the phone lines can delay emergency response. Staying available for official updates is the best way to help. 

Visit iloveuguys.org to read more about the Standard Response Protocol and safety practices in schools.  

• Lock your classroom or office door. 
• Turn off lights. 
• Move students out of sight. 
• Stay silent. Do not open the door for anyone unless instructed by law enforcement. 

If it’s safe, quickly pull in nearby students or staff before locking the door. Once locked, do not open the door until law enforcement or an administrator gives the all-clear. 

Move quickly to the nearest room that can be secured. If you’re outside, get away from the building and find a safe place to hide or evacuate. 

Stay silent and off-screen at first. Once safe, you may use your phone to check for updates or reassure loved ones—if it doesn't compromise safety. Avoid posting on social media during an active event. 

Lockdowns can last anywhere from several minutes to several hours. Stay in place until law enforcement or administrators officially release your room. 

Only leave when an authorized adult (usually law enforcement) unlocks your door and identifies themselves. Do not leave based on announcements alone. 

We’ll debrief, check on staff and students, and offer support. Counselors will be available. Your principal or district leaders will share next steps. 

Yes. Lockdowns—even drills—can be stressful. Counseling and debriefing opportunities will be offered. You’re not expected to “just be okay.” We also have a free, confidential employee assistance program.   

Yes, but keep it simple and reassuring. Tell them you’re doing what’s needed to keep everyone safe. Stick to facts and avoid speculation. 

Notify your administrator immediately after the lockdown. We want to fix any safety issues and learn from the experience.