Standard Response Protocol: Information for Parents & Guardians

Piedmont Public Schools utilizes the Standard Response Protocol (SRP). Students and staff will be training, practicing, and drilling the protocols throughout the year. SRP utilizes clear and common language while allowing for flexibility in protocol.

SRP Actions

The premise is simple - there are five specific actions that can be performed during an incident. SRP is based on the following actions: Hold, Secure, Lockdown, Evacuate, and Shelter. Students and staff are given specific directives depending on the category of the incident. The SRP actions and examples are explained below.

Parent Notifications

In the event of a drill, district officials will make every effort to notify parents once the drill is completed and regular classroom activities have resumed.

In the event of a live incident, you will be notified of the category/status of your student's school. Specific information regarding the incident may not be communicated immediately, depending on the situation. PPS administrators treat all threats seriously. We strive to gather facts before commenting on individual incidents. Our first priority is always the safety of our students and staff.

HOLD

"Hold in your classroom or area. Clear the halls."

There may be situations that require students to remain in their classrooms. For example, a medical emergency in the hallway may demand keeping students out of the halls until it is resolved. There may be a need for students who are not in a classroom to proceed to an area where they can be supervised and remain safe.

SECURE

"Secure! Get Inside. Lock outside doors."

Secure is called when there is a threat or hazard outside of the school building. Whether it's due to violence or criminal activity in the area, or a dangerous animal on the playground. Secure uses the security of the physical facility to act as protection.

LOCKDOWN

"Lockdown! Locks, Lights, Out of Sight!"

Lockdown is called when there is a threat or hazard inside the school building. From parental custody disputes, to intruders or an active shooter, lockdown uses classroom and school security actions to protect students and staff from threat.

EVACUATE

"Evacuate! To...(a specific location)."

Evacuate is called when there is a need to move students from one location to another (fire, bomb threat, or other emergencies). The location for evacuation will be communicated.

SHELTER

Example: "Tornado Warning, evacuate to shelter area."

Shelter is called when specific protective actions are needed based on a threat or hazard. Training includes response to threats such as tornado, earthquake, or hazmat. The hazard will be communicated along with the safety strategy.

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