As previously released by your Garrett County Public Schools Safety & Security Department, our standard response protocols have been updated for the 2023-24 school year. Directives may include one of the following actions in our facilities: HOLD, SECURE, LOCKDOWN, EVACUATE, or SHELTER. As drills are being conducted in our schools, some of which begin this week, we will examine each protocol closer. This week’s focus is on the HOLD protocol.
HOLD, in a classroom or other area of the building, is a result of a situation that requires students and staff to remain in their classrooms or stay out of access areas. For example:
- An altercation in a hallway;
- A medical issue that needs attention; or
- Unfinished maintenance operation in a common area during class changes.
Depending on the situation, SchoolMessenger may be used to alert parent(s)/guardian(s) of the HOLD status. This may happen during the current time or after the HOLD has been lifted, perhaps receiving notification after the school day has ended.
A HOLD drill will be conducted in each school no less than twice per year. While A.L.I.C.E. training has occurred previously, this training will still be implemented if warranted. These protocols will be used as “another tool in the box.”
If you have questions about a drill happening at your local school, please contact your school office or the Office of Safety & Security at 301-334-8900 ext. 1361. As a reminder, in the event of an emergency, please contact 9-1-1 immediately. To report a tip anonymously, contact MD Safe Schools at 833-MD-B-SAFE (833-632-7233).
