We know that any time we have to go into a lockdown it can be unsettling for all involved. We have two different “classifications” of lockdowns - "hard lockdown" and "soft lockdown."
Soft Lockdown:
- When there is potential for concern but not an imminent threat - example: police are on a chase in the area.
- When hallways need to remain cleared - example: medical emergencies and locker checks.
- When administration sees need for precaution
Hard Lockdown:
When there is imminent threat - example: intruder on campus, student with a weapon, active shooter.
As a parent, what should I do?
During a soft lockdown, parents may check out students and students will be escorted outside the building by an administrator. However, for safety purposes no one is allowed in or out of the building during a hard lockdown. As tempting as it is to come to the school during a hard lockdown, emergency personnel strongly recommend staying off campus as to not impede law enforcement efforts.
Communication
When one of our schools issues a lockdown, we will communicate as quickly as possible with our parent community. Notifications may be vague at first for the sake of getting the message out quickly and because we may not have all of the information available at that time. We will follow up with when the lockdown has been lifted and if permissible, more details may be shared. If circumstances of police involvement, information will likely be communicated by Neosho police.
