Schools in the Dysart Unified School District conduct quarterly lock-down drills to prepare students and staff members for various emergency situations. Like fire drills, the goal is to make lockdown drills routine exercises which support safe, secure learning environments.

During a lock-down instruction will stop, windows will be covered and all doors locked, lights will be turned off, students will sit on the floor, away from doors and windows, and a quiet, calm environment will be maintained.

A lock-down can be called for a variety of critical situations, from suspicious people to chemical spills. In many cases, events in the neighborhood will cause a campus to lock-down. If you are on campus during a lock-down – whether a drill or actual emergency – please follow the instructions of the staff members and expect to be secured on campus for the duration of the lock-down.

When the news breaks that an emergency is taking place at a school, every parent’s first reaction is to rush to the campus to pick up his or her child. In fact, a horde of parents arriving at school can increase the risk to students. Here are some tips for parents when an
emergency occurs on or near a Dysart campus:

• During most critical situations, schools will not answer their telephones. Parents can call the Dysart District Office at 623.876.7000 for information on a campus’ status and basic information during an emergency.
• For critical events requiring an evacuation, local media will be asked to help inform parents of the location for parent-child reunification. During a large-scale emergency, tune to KTAR AM 620 for the latest information.
• Become familiar with the district’s emergency operations plans. School staff welcome your question regarding our emergency preparations.
• Ensure that your student’s Emergency Card is up-to-date and contains accurate primary and secondary contact numbers.
• To make a confidential report related to campus safety, bullying or other criminal actions, students and community members can leave a message 24/7 at 623.876.7009. Communication is key in ensuring safe schools. This Safe Schools Hotline is just another way to pass along tips or information.

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