Standard Response Protocol

Following a Michigan state initiative, our Emergency Operations Protocol (EOP) now uses standardized language used by schools across the state. Royal Oak Schools has adopted the Standard Response Protocol (SRP) developed by the I Love U Guys Foundation in collaboration with the Michigan State Police.

This allows us to use consistent, clear terminology when responding to situations in our buildings. Our administrative team has been trained in the new system, and all staff members have participated in drills using these updated procedures. These improvements strengthen our ability to respond effectively and ensure the safety of our students and staff.

The SRP uses six clear “modes” to identify the actions we will take if a situation occurs. Below is an overview of what each mode means and how it may impact students and families.

 

HOLD

Hold – In Your Room or Area. Clear the halls.

This is the most common action used in our schools. A Hold is called when students and staff need to remain in their classrooms or avoid certain areas. Examples include providing privacy for a medical situation, addressing an altercation in a hallway, or cleaning up a spill or maintenance issue. Instruction continues as normal during a Hold. Because this occurs regularly and is not cause for concern, parents will not typically be notified unless the situation is prolonged or requires more significant action.

SECURE

Secure – Get Inside. Lock Outside Doors.

Secure is called when there is a potential threat or hazard outside the building, and students are safest inside. During Secure, no one may enter or exit the building. Instruction continues as usual. This may occur due to police activity in the area, an unauthorized person on school grounds, or a nearby dangerous animal. Parents will be notified if the situation is serious, prolonged, or affects arrival or dismissal.

LOCKDOWN

Lockdown – Locks, Lights, Out of Sight.

A Lockdown is called when there is a threat inside the building. Students and staff move into secured spaces, lock doors, turn off lights, and remain out of sight. Parents will always be notified of a Lockdown through our emergency alert system.

EVACUATE

Evacuate – To a Location.

Evacuate is used when students and staff must move from one location to another for safety reasons. This may be to another area within the building or to an off-site location, depending on the situation. An evacuation may occur due to mechanical issues, fire alarms, or other safety concerns. Parents will be notified of an Evacuate mode through our emergency alert system.

SHELTER

Shelter – For Severe Weather or Hazardous Material.

Shelter is called when specific protective actions are needed, such as during severe weather or a hazardous material situation. Depending on the circumstances, instruction may continue. Parents will be notified of a Shelter through our emergency alert system.

This ensures that the language we use is understood by the Royal Oak Police Department, Michigan State Police, and all emergency responders.

Our administrators and teachers use age-appropriate explanations when preparing for and running a drill so that we do not cause undue stress for our students, while ensuring they are prepared in the event of an emergency.

We will always inform parents of upcoming drills in the principal’s newsletter the week prior to the drill. For Lockdown drills, families will receive an additional reminder the day before the drill occurs, unless that day is a Monday immediately following a Friday newsletter notification.

To ensure you and all emergency contacts for your child receive notifications from our emergency alert system (including any trusted family member or friend who could pick your child up in the event of an emergency), please make sure your child’s MiStar Emergency Contacts are updated. Students will only be released to individuals included on their emergency contact list.

To update:

  1. Log in to MiStar
  2. Select “My Information” in the upper-right menu
  3. Select the photo of your child
  4. Select “Emergency Contacts” in the upper-left menu
  5. Add the contact name and phone number
  6. Select “Submit”

Please note that this process must be completed for each child. If you need assistance, please call (248) 435-8400 x1260 OR email [email protected]

We are committed to continuously improving our safety practices. By adopting standardized language and procedures, we are strengthening communication and ensuring a coordinated response in any situation.