Dr. Tammy Champa

The district’s current strategic plan is available for your review at: https://core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4642/HPS/4176030/Hastings_Public_Schools_Strategic_Plan.pdf

Emergency Safety Response Protocols:

The safety of our students and staff remains our highest priority. We recently adopted the “I Love U Guys” program for our emergency response plan, a protocol that has been implemented by over 50,000 schools, districts and agencies. This all-hazards approach emphasizes clear, action-based responses—Hold, Secure, Lockdown, Evacuate, and Shelter—rather than focusing on specific scenarios. Below are the icons representing each of these responses, along with examples to help familiarize you with the procedures.

HOLD: The HOLD directive is used when it is necessary to keep hallways clear. This measure can be implemented for various reasons, such as a medical emergency, a student experiencing distress, or a significant spill. During a HOLD, classrooms continue normal activities, but movement in the hallways is restricted. It is important to note that a HOLD is typically not communicated broadly, as it is often a precautionary measure to manage internal situations efficiently.
SECURE: The SECURE directive is issued when there is a potential threat or concern outside the building. In this situation, everyone is instructed to move inside, and all external doors are secured to ensure safety. Activities within the building proceed as normal, maintaining a calm and controlled environment. Examples of situations that may prompt a SECURE directive include the presence of a dangerous animal nearby or an alert from law enforcement regarding external activity.
LOCKDOWN: The LOCKDOWN directive is activated when there is an immediate safety threat or concern within the building. During a LOCKDOWN, specific measures are taken to secure all areas to protect students and staff. Depending on the nature of the threat, an evacuation may also be required. To the extent possible, communication about a LOCKDOWN is shared as quickly and transparently as possible to ensure awareness and maintain safety.
EVACUATE: The EVACUATE directive is issued when an emergency within the building, such as a fire or chemical spill, requires everyone to exit promptly for safety. Each building has designated rallying points where staff and students will gather after evacuating to ensure accountability and safety.
SHELTER: The SHELTER directive is used when staff and students need to take cover due to specific threats, such as severe weather. In Minnesota, this would most commonly be initiated during a tornado warning. The directive ensures everyone moves to designated safe areas within the building to remain protected until the threat has passed.
To ensure that you are notified of any emergency situation or inclement weather, please review all your contact information.

Hastings Strategic Plan
Mark your calendars to share your insights as the Hastings School Board updates the district’s strategic plan. This input session, facilitated by Gail Gilman from the Minnesota School Boards Association, will guide the district's direction, incorporating feedback from the recent School Perceptions survey. Your voice is essential in shaping our district’s future!
DATE: Monday, November 18, 2024
TIME: 6 p.m.
LOCATION: High School Lecture Hall
The district’s current strategic plan is available for your review at: https://core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4642/HPS/4176030/Hastings_Public_Schools_Strategic_Plan.pdf