Safe Schools
The safety of our students and staff remains our highest priority. The “I Love U Guys” program is a key part of our emergency response plan, a protocol that has been implemented by over 50,000 schools, districts and agencies. This all-hazards approach emphasizes clear, action-based responses—Hold, Secure, Lockdown, Evacuate, and Shelter—rather than focusing on specific scenarios. Below are the icons representing each of these responses, along with examples to help familiarize you with the procedures.
To ensure that you are notified of any emergency situation or inclement weather, please review all your contact information in the Infinite Campus Parent Portal.
Safety Response Protocol
HOLD
The HOLD directive is used when it is necessary to keep hallways clear. This measure can be implemented for various reasons, such as a medical emergency, a student experiencing distress, or a significant spill.
During a HOLD, classrooms continue normal activities, but movement in the hallways is restricted. A HOLD is typically not communicated broadly, as it is often a precautionary measure to manage internal situations efficiently.
secure
The SECURE directive is issued when there is a potential threat or concern outside the building. Examples include the presence of a dangerous animal nearby or an alert from law enforcement regarding external activity.
During SECURE, everyone is instructed to move inside, and all external doors are secured to ensure safety. Activities within the building proceed as normal, maintaining a calm and controlled environment.
lockdown
The LOCKDOWN directive is activated when there is an immediate safety threat or concern within the building.
During a LOCKDOWN, specific measures are taken to secure all areas to protect students and staff.
Depending on the nature of the threat, an evacuation may also be required.
Communication about a LOCKDOWN is shared as quickly and transparently as possible to ensure awareness and maintain safety.
EVACUATE
The EVACUATE directive is issued when an emergency within the building, such as an intruder, fire, bomb threat or chemical spill, requires everyone to exit promptly for safety.
Each building has designated rallying points where staff and students will gather after evacuating to ensure accountability and safety.
SHELTER
The SHELTER directive is used when staff and students need to take cover due to specific threats, such as severe weather. In Minnesota, this would most commonly be initiated during a tornado warning.
The SHELTER directive ensures everyone moves to designated safe areas within the building to remain protected until the threat has passed.
Drills
As a school district, we are required to conduct five drills during the school year. These drills prepare students for a variety of scenarios and include hold, evacuations, secure, shelter, and lockdown. Note that Owatonna Public Schools does not conduct active-shooter simulations.
The school administration will send home dates and information about lockdown drills at the beginning of the school year. Please contact your principal with any questions.