Lockdown Drill

Good afternoon,

As many of you are aware, we are consistently taking steps to ensure that our school is prepared for a variety of emergencies. This includes regular fire drills, review of evacuation procedures, and discussions and drills in the event of an intruder. Sadly, these are the times we live in, and, while we are confident and comfortable in the safety and security at UHS, it is important for us to review protocols regularly with staff and students.

This afternoon, in collaboration with our public safety partners and led by School Resource Officer Dan Deveau, we conducted a lockdown and intruder drill with students that included an evacuation or other step taken, based on where the threat to the building was hypothetically occurring. In providing a variety of scenarios, teachers will review proper responses while addressing circumstances unique to the classroom.

Because of the sensitive nature of these conversations, we do anticipate some students potentially struggling, and we have our counselors and staff members being vigilant in noticing when students may be responding with heightened anxiety. Those students will be directed to counselors for support.

This afternoon's drill started at 12:48 and conclude by 12:55. At home, while difficult dinnertime conversation, it may be worthwhile to discuss with students their perceptions and understanding of what took place, recognizing that there is no set playbook for these potential scenarios.

We thank you as always for the support. Feel free to reach out to me directly with any questions.

Sincerely,

Michael Rubin

Principal