School Safety

Evacuation Procedures

For the protection of all occupants of the building, it is important that everyone is informed and understands what to do in the event of a fire, severe weather, or other types of threatening situations that would necessitate the evacuation of the buidling.  The following evacuation procedures should be discussed with all classes.

1.  The purpose of an evacuation drill is to be able to clear the building in case of a fire or other emergency.

2.  Drills should be silent.  If teachers or students are talking, directions and other information will not be heard.

3.  Everyone should clear the building immediately as instructed.

4.  Appoint one student to close the door and see that everyone is out of the area or class.

5.  Get as far away from the building as possible in a designated area.  Take a roster to check roll outside.

6.  Exit according to the instructions that have been issued to you.

7.  A principal will give the "all clear" to return to the building.

8.  In an area is barricaded, the next nearest exit should be used.

In the event of a natural or man-made disaster that necessitates evacuation of schools, local school authorities will work closely with local civil defense and law enforcement authorities to insure a safe and orderly evacuation of students.  It shall be the responsibility of the district transportation director to coordinate evacuation procedures with local authorities.  DeSoto County School officials will meet with local authorities to update procedures.

Fire and Tornado/Severe Weather Safety

All areas of the building have designated areas for seeking safety in the event of a fire or severe weather emergency. Periodic drills are conducted to ensure students are aware of the procedures in case of an emergency. 

Emergency Early Dismissal Procedures

It is not uncommon for a situation to arise during the course of a school year that requires early dismissal without any prior notice.  Such would be the case in times of anticipated bad weather, crisis, unrest, disaster, and chaos.  The following procedures should be followed in such cases.

1.  The decision to dismiss school early would come from the Central Office to the principal.

2.  The Central Office will notify the local news media of the decision to dismiss.  Parents who call the school will be encouraged to listen to local radio and television.

3.  Early dismissal falls into two stages:  students whose parents come to school to pick them up and students who ride the bus.

4.  At the earliest possible point in time, a decision will be made to dismiss school early.  The following instructions are to be given:

      a. Teachers are not to dismiss any students unless instructed to do so by the office.  All students must remain in class unless their parents/designee come to the school to get them.  Students whose parents/designee come to school to pick them up will be called.  Students who ride the bus will be dismissed when their bus arrives on campus. 
   b.  All school telephones are to be used only for authorized calls.  The telephone lines must remain clear.  Students will be allowed to use phones at the discretion of the principal.
   c.  All school personnel who are unassigned should report immediately to the office for assignments.

5.  All students dismisssed to parents/guardians must be signed out at the office.

6.  Students and teachers should be very careful and listen to local news media for instructions as to when to return to school.

7.  Staff will be advised when buses are ready to load.

8.  Regular bus loading procedures will be followed as much as possible.

9.  Stranded students should be sent to the office.  Office personnel will attempt to notify their parents.

10. Any problems during this time should be reported directly to the principal.  The principal will report any problems to the Superintendent.