School Safety at Union Colony Schools
Crisis Is Not a Choice. Response Is.
At Union Colony Schools, we believe in being prepared, not reactive. Our safety framework is built around a shared language, collaborative teamwork, and clear actions, so that in any situation, everyone — students, staff, first responders, and families — can act with confidence and unity.
We use a standardized protocol that is action-based, flexible, and designed for all hazards. This ensures that, regardless of the challenge, whether it's a fire, severe weather, an intruder, or a medical emergency, our community speaks the same language and moves together.
The Five Core Actions
We adopt a response model built on five core actions. Each carries a precise directive so everyone knows exactly what to do:
Hold – “In Your Room or Area”
Used when hallways must remain clear, but classrooms or areas stay in place temporarily.Secure – “Get Inside. Lock Outside Doors”
Brings everyone inside and locks external doors while operations continue indoors.LockDOWN – “Locks, Lights, Out of Sight”
Secures rooms, dims visibility, silences noise, and keeps occupants safe in place.Evacuate – “To the Announced Location”
Moves people safely from one place to another using preplanned routes.Shelter – “State Hazard & Safety Strategy”
Protects against environmental hazards such as severe weather or air quality threats.
These five actions are practiced consistently across drills, training, and real events so everyone can respond quickly and calmly. Like the SRP model, we review and update our safety procedures regularly in coordination with local agencies.
Why This Approach Matters
Collaboration at Every Level: Teachers, administrators, and staff work together to maintain readiness and ensure every student feels supported and safe.
One Shared Vocabulary: Consistent language allows quick coordination with first responders and across both campuses.
Predictability and Flexibility: Each action is structured yet adaptable to different contexts.
Muscle Memory: Routine practice fosters confident, automatic responses in emergencies.
Safety by Design: Our Broader Framework
Integrating this protocol with our broader safety and wellness measures ensures a well-rounded approach:
Physical Measures: Controlled access, surveillance, and visible staff supervision throughout hallways, playgrounds, and shared spaces.
Facility Care: Clean, well-kept campuses that support health, safety, and learning every day.
Emotional and Social Safety: Restorative practices, counseling support, and character education nurture empathy and accountability.
Health and Wellness: On-site health services and staff trained in emergency medical response meet students’ needs promptly.
Digital Safety: Filtered network access, digital citizenship instruction, and open communication with families promote responsible technology use.
Safety is a shared responsibility. At Union Colony Schools, we commit to proactive planning, regular practice, clear communication, and continuous improvement. Together with staff, students, and families, we build a community where everyone knows what to do and where learning happens in a secure, caring environment.