Secure Schools Response
The safety and well-being of students and staff is our highest priority. HWDSB schools use several standardized emergency response procedures when situations affect the safety of the school community. These responses help schools and emergency responders act quickly, consistently and calmly.
Families may hear these terms below used during emergency situations or school communications.
Lockdown
What it means:
Used when there is an immediate safety concern inside or near the school requiring protective actions.
What families should know:
- Students and staff move to safe locations inside the school.
- Movement within the building is restricted
- Schools work closely with emergency responders.
- Families will receive updates when appropriate.
Hold and Secure
What it means:
Used when there is a safety concern in the surrounding community, but not inside the school.
What families should know:
- Exterior doors are secured.
- Students and staff remain inside the school.
- Learning activities may continue indoors.
- Families will be updated as needed.
Shelter in Place
What it means:
Used during environmental or weather-related situations that require everyone to remain indoors.
What families should know:
- Students and staff remain inside the building.
- Schools follow guidance from emergency services or local
authorities. - Normal activities may continue where appropriate
Privacy Hold
What it means:
Used when there is a situation inside the school requiring temporary limits on hallway movement.
What families should know:
- Students remain in classrooms or learning spaces temporarily.
- School staff respond to the situation.
-
Learning activities may continue where appropriate.
Privacy Hold is not a Lockdown.
Bomb Threat
What it means:
Used when information is received about a potential explosive device or suspicious item.
What families should know:
- Schools work closely with emergency services.
- Safety assessments are conducted.
- Evacuation decisions are made carefully and collaboratively.
- Families will receive updates when appropriate.
How Schools Communicate During Emergency Situations:
During emergency situations, schools and the Board may share information using:
• School Messenger notifications
• School and Board websites
• Official HWDSB communications channels
Families are encouraged to rely on official communication sources for updates and information.
To support emergency response efforts, students may be asked to limit cellphone use during active emergency situations
Supporting Student Well-Being:
HWDSB emergency responses are implemented using trauma-informed, student-centred approaches whenever possible.
- Staff work to support students calmly, respectfully, and safely during emergency situations, including students requiring accommodations or additional support.
- We appreciate your partnership and understanding as we work together to support safe, caring and inclusive schools for all