SOP: Intruder or Dangerous Person on Premises

Our school prioritizes the safety and security of all children, staff, and visitors. This SOP outlines the immediate and coordinated response to an intruder or dangerous person on school property.

Who:

• All staff members

• Director and/or Assistant Director

• Law enforcement

When:

• An unknown or unauthorized person enters the building

• A person displays threatening, erratic, or aggressive behavior

• An intruder bypasses the front office or refuses to leave

Procedure:

1. Intruder in the Front Office Area

• Initial Response:

  • A staff member should attempt to calmly engage the individual and guide them away from children and classrooms.

  • Place yourself between the intruder and the children if it is safe to do so.

  • Another staff member must immediately contact the Director or Assistant Director.

• Director Response:

  • Assess the situation.

  • If the individual poses a threat, call 911 immediately and/or proceed with lockdown protocols.

2. Intruder Has Entered the Building or Passed the Front Office

• Communication Alert:

  • The Director/Assistant Director will use the “All Page” feature on the phone system to alert staff.

  • If unavailable, ANY staff member may notify others by verbal warning or cell phone communication.

• Lockdown Initiation:

  • All staff and children must:

    • Return to their classrooms immediately

    • Lock all doors

    • Turn off lights

    • Sit on the floor away from doors and windows

    • Remain silent and calm

    • Wait for an official “All Clear” from the Director or Assistant Director

3. Law Enforcement Notification

• Emergency Call Protocol:

  • If the Director or Assistant Director is not available or unable to call 911, YOU must call 911 immediately.

  • If there is any doubt about whether 911 has been called, call 911. It is better to duplicate the call than delay.

4. Confronting the Intruder

• The Director, Assistant Director, or designated staff member will:

  • Instruct the intruder to leave the premises

  • Maintain visual contact with the individual at a safe distance

  • Do not physically engage or attempt to restrain the intruder

  • Remain in a safe location while observing until law enforcement arrives

5. After the Incident

• Wait for law enforcement to give an “all clear” before resuming activities.

• Director or Assistant Director will:

  • Notify parents (as appropriate)

  • File an incident report including staff accounts and actions taken

  • Review and debrief procedures with staff

  • Offer emotional support to staff and children if needed