Emergency Information Guide for Parents and Guardians

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Be Prepared for a School Emergency

  • Ensure that your child’s emergency contact information is accurate, current, and updated as needed. To update this information, please contact your child’s school directly.

  • Become familiar with LCPS’s emergency communication procedures. The district is committed to providing accurate and timely information in the event of an emergency.

In Case of a School Emergency

Although your first reaction would be to call or rush to your child’s school, please follow the tips listed below:

  • DO NOT go to your child’s school.  Law enforcement will secure the campus perimeter, and no one except emergency responders will be permitted entry onto the campus.  Going to your child’s school will only hamper emergency response efforts and their ability to gain entry to the campus.

  • DO NOT phone or text your child.  This ties up critically needed cell towers during an emergency.

  • Listen to the message(s) you will receive via Apptegy Alerts.  This is the primary method LCPS will use to distribute critical information.

  • Check the LCPS website for updates.  Communications from LCPS and emergency services will have the most accurate and timely information

  • Rely only on official communications from LCPS school officials.  Do not rely on social media posts or rumors spread via posts, texts, or emails.

  • The Apptegy Alert will provide instructions on where to go for family assistance and reunification.  Remember to bring a state issued photo ID.  Students will only be released to parents/guardians and others who are documented as emergency contacts.

Please avoid contacting your child or encouraging them to contact you by cell phone during an emergency. This can overload the phone system, hamper the ability of responders to effectively handle the emergency, and cause delays in releasing official communication to parents, guardians, and the community

How will Family Assistance Work During an Emergency?

Parents/guardians will be directed by school or public safety officials to a family assistance center. This information will be distributed via the district’s emergency notification system, the district website, or local TV/radio. Students will be released ONLY to parents/guardians or other designated individuals who are documented as emergency contacts. All individuals will be required to present a valid picture ID such as a driver’s license, military ID, Permanent Resident ID card, or passport. Please remember to bring your ID with you, and inform your child’s emergency contacts that they will be required to show proper identification if they are picking up your child.

The family assistance and reunification process will be time-consuming, so everyone is urged to be patient.

Following an Emergency

  • Listen to and acknowledge your child’s concerns.

  • Provide reassurance that your child is safe.

  • Assure your child that additional prevention efforts are being put into place.

  • Seek help from school personnel or a mental health professional if concerns persist.

  • Should you or your child have serious concerns in response to an emergency or crisis, contact your child’s school directly for information and guidance.