Safety & Security at our Schools

Commitment to a Safe Learning Environment
Columbus Catholic Schools is dedicated to providing a learning environment where students, staff, and visitors feel safe, supported, and protected. Safety and security are foundational to our mission and are upheld through careful planning, ongoing training, and strong partnerships with families and local emergency responders.

Emergency Readiness and Response
Columbus Catholic Schools follows a Standard Response Protocol (SRP) to guide emergency preparedness and response across all schools. This protocol provides a consistent, easy-to-understand framework that helps students and staff act quickly, calmly, and appropriately during emergency situations. Training and practice drills are conducted throughout the school year to reinforce these procedures.

The SRP is build on an all-hazards approach, meaning it can be applied to a wide range of situations rather than reply in on separate plans for each type of emergency. By using clear, shared language, the protocol supports effective communication and coordination during critical moments.

Emergency Response Actions
During an incident, administrators may direct one or more of the following SRP actions:

• Hold – Classes continue as scheduled while movement in hallways is limited.
• Secure – Safety measures are taken when a potential concern exists outside the building.
• Lockdown – Immediate protective action is taken when there is a threat inside the school.
• Evacuate – Students and staff move to a safer location when remaining in place is not safe.
• Shelter – Protective steps are used during severe weather or environmental hazards.

Additional visuals and descriptions on this page provide further explanation of each action.

Guidance for Parents and Guardians
During and emergency, it is natural for parents and guardians to want to come to the school to ensure their child’s safety. However, arriving at campus during an active response can unintentionally create obstacles for emergency personnel and school staff.

When first responders are involved, access to school buildings or grounds may be limited. Extra vehicles, phone calls, or visitors can slow communication and response efforts.

Families are asked to support school safety procedures by

• Remaining Off Campus unless specifically instructed to report to the school or another designated location.
• Monitoring Official Updates shared by Columbus Catholic Schools through approved communication channels.
• Preparing for Instructions regarding reunification, transportation, or alternate locations if students are relocated.

School-to-Home Communication
Accurate and timely communication is a critical part of emergency management.

• Updated Contact Information
  Families should ensure their contact details on file with the school remain current so messages are delivered without delay.
• Emergency Notifications
  In urgent situations, families will receive updates through text messages, phone calls, and/or email.

Through preparation, cooperation, and clear communication, Columbus Catholic Schools remains committed to fostering a secure and faith-centered environment where students can learn and thrive.