Elwood Public Schools, (Brian Neben, Central Nebraska Today)
ELWOOD — Elwood Public Schools will conduct a lockdown, evacuate and reunification drill on Thursday, March 7.
Elwood Public Schools noted that in the past, staff and students have practiced a lockdown and evacuate drill, but this time parents will take part in a reunification drill.
“We feel it is vital to familiarize ourselves, our students and our students’ parents with this process in case it is needed in the future,” Elwood Public Schools stated.
Around 1 p.m., on March 7, the school will begin the lockdown drill at the school. The plan is to involve law enforcement and Elwood Fire Department EMS members.
Students will then take part in the evacuate drill and be transported via bus to Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, located at 704 Smith Ave. The students will enter the west side of the church, so the public is asked to avoid crowding that side.
Around 1:30 p.m., a notification will be issued via the school’s all-call system to notify parents that students have been evacuated to the church for the drill. At this time, parents may begin picking up their children.
Once at the church, the staff will direct parents to the east entrance. Parents must have a legal photo identification so the staff can verify their identity as part of the drill.
“This might seem extreme since we live in such a small town, however we want to do everything to make sure your children are reunited with the correct family member or guardian,” Elwood Public Schools stated.
Staff will then direct parents into the building and through the reunification process. When finished parents can exit the building to the north parking lot. Parents may then leave with their children.
“We hope you will make every effort to be a part of this process and pick your child or children up because this drill simulates an actual event. However, if your child rides a bus or van and you cannot pick them up, please contact Rhonda Schutz at the school prior to the drill to let her know and we will bus them home at the conclusion of the drill,” stated Elwood Public Schools.
The school also asked parents to update their emergency contact information, if needed and return it to the school’s office.
