Safety & Security
Safety Information for District Families
- Executive Director of Safety & Security
- Letter to Families: Safety & Security in District 95 Schools
- Standard Response Protocol (SRP)
- Reunification
- Emergency Alert Notifications
- School Violence Reporting
- Traffic Safety & Parking Lot Safety
- Human Trafficking
- Firearm Storage Safety
- Past Safety Presentations
- Cardiac Emergency Response Plan
- Visiting District 95 Schools and Buildings
- Additional Resources
Executive Director of Safety & Security
Danielle Stevens
Executive Director of Safety & Security
Ms. Stevens is the 2023 National Safety Director of the Year through Campus Safety Magazine. The same year, she was awarded with Lake Zurich Community Unit School District 95’s highest honor, the Gary W. Robillard Award, for being a visible, approachable, and growth-focused member of the school community who is highly responsive and willing to listen to concerns and feedback from all stakeholders. She works with other agencies and partner organizations on new and innovative safety measures, and additionally serves on the National Center for Spectator and Sports Safety and Security (NCS4) Advisory Committee.
Email Director of Safety & SecurityMs. Stevens Professional Biography
Letter to Families: Safety & Security in District 95 Schools
Dear District 95 Families,
Student, staff, family and community members’ health safety are a top priority within Lake Zurich Community Unit School District 95. Many initiatives and enhancements are in place and in progress as the District examines safety components of our school district’s safety and security planning. The following are some of the most significant:
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Secured entry, several layers of physical barriers at all schools are in place as a portion of a total “target hardening” approach directed at denying or limiting access.
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Raptor Visitor Management both registers and screens every campus visitor, volunteer, and contractor so that school officials know precisely who is entering their buildings.
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Custom ID Lanyards allow staff to recognize staff and students immediately and thus enables us to recognize any person who should not be on our campus.
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Card Access Control Security Systems protect our buildings from intruders both during the school day and after hours.
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A web based, confidential Safe2Help “Tip Line” provides an opportunity for reporting of concerns regarding bullying, harassment, weapons, drugs and other potentially dangerous issues. While this is not intended to replace 9-1-1 calls or face-to-face contact, it does afford another option to our students and their families.
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School Resource Officer (SRO) is a vital part of school-based security. With an officer assigned who is available to quickly respond as needed throughout our district.
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Emergency preparedness is essential for schools to be safe. Staff and students are trained in uniform classroom responses. Weather events, fires, accidents, intruders, and other threats to student safety are scenarios that must be planned and trained for by school and district administration and staff.
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AED’s (Automatic External Defibrillators) and Bleeding Control Kits are installed in all school facilities to provide emergency aid to students, staff, and visitors.
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Threat assessment protocols are essential so that schools have specific procedures in place to determine the appropriate reaction and safeguards, if any, for any reported danger.
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Partnering with community, law enforcement and other emergency services and a well-conceived School Emergency Crisis Plan is perhaps the most important consideration in any school safety program. District 95 is fortunate to have the support of outstanding and advanced services delivered by highly qualified personnel.
This webpage contains safety information and resources for our families.
Sincerely,
Kelley Gallt
Superintendent
Danielle Stevens
Executive Director of Safety & Security
Standard Response Protocol (SRP)
Standard Response Protocol
Lake Zurich Community Unit School District 95 values the safety and well-being of students, staff, and visitors. A uniform, planned, and practiced response to any incident is the foundation of a safe school. In 2022, District 95 adopted the Standard Response Protocol (SRP). The SRP is based on an all-hazards approach - as opposed to individual scenarios - and utilizes clear common language while allowing for flexibility in responses during a crisis situation. There are five specific actions that can be performed during an incident: Hold, Secure, Lockdown, Evacuate, and Shelter.
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Hold is followed by the Directive: "In Your Room or Area" and is the protocol used when hallways need to be kept clear of occupants.
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Secure is followed by the Directive: "Get Inside. Lock Outside Doors" and is the protocol used to safeguard people within the building.
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Lockdown is followed by "Locks, Lights, Out of Sight" and is the protocol used to secure individual rooms and keep occupants quiet and in place.
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Evacuate may be followed by a location, and is used to move people from one location to a different location in or out of the building.
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Shelter and state the Hazard and Safety Strategy for group and self protection.
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The SRP’s development is ever-evolving, created with extensive collaboration between experts such as first responders, public safety, schools, districts, and communities. Its tactics are data-driven, researched and based on experience and best practices.
More SRP Information at the I Love U Guys Foundation Website
Additional Resources
Reunification
Information
In 2022, Lake Zurich Community Unit School District 95 adopted the Standard Reunification Method (SRM). Recovery starts before the crisis begins. Reunification is the first step. It is critical to have a plan in place to reunite students and parents in order to lessen the stress and potential trauma of a crisis situation, as well as to account for each student in our care. No school is immune to emergencies such as fires, floods, tornadoes, blizzards, power outages, bomb threats, or acts of violence. This is just a short list of events that could initiate a release and reunification process for a school or district.
If a parent or guardian is notified that a reunification is needed, it is important to bring identification to the reunification site to streamline the process. Additionally, it is important to remember to be patient. Reunification is a process that protects both the safety of the student and provides for an accountable change of custody from the school to a guardian – and can take time.
Please take this opportunity to update your emergency contacts using the ParentVUE portal (button below), and consider including trusted neighbors or others who can respond to reunification sites in case your response is delayed by other emergencies in the area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are commonly asked questions about a Reunification Process:
What is the Standard Reunification Method (SRM)?
The Standard Reunification Method (SRM) is a proven and structured process used to safely reunite students with their parents or guardians following an emergency. It was developed by the "I Love U Guys" Foundation to create a consistent approach for schools across the country to handle reunifications in a calm and organized manner.
When would the SRM be used?
The SRM is used during emergencies that require students to be evacuated from their school and to be placed in a secure location. This could include events such as natural disasters (tornadoes, floods), security incidents (lockdowns, active threats), or any situation where it’s unsafe for students to remain in the school building.
How will I know if a reunification is happening?
Notification will be made as soon as possible using mass phone calls, text messages, voice messages, and other means such as the District and school websites, and social media sites. Here is a sample message you may receive:
Hello, this is Dr. Kelley Gallt, Superintendent of Lake Zurich Community Unit School District 95. Due to an incident at your student’s school, we are initiating our reunification process. Please pick up your student at [Reunification Location and Address]. Bring your ID card. A student may only be picked up by a parent, legal guardian, or the emergency contact listed. When you arrive on site, you will be directed to the check-in location. Safety is our priority, and this process to reunite each student with their family takes time. We thank you for your patience and partnership as we work together during this process.
Where will reunification take place?
Reunification locations may vary depending on the nature of the emergency and the safety of the area. Parents/guardians will be informed of the specific reunification site through the communication channels listed above. It’s important to wait for instructions and to not report to the school, as the reunification site may be different from the school’s regular location.
What should I bring to the reunification site?
The approved pick-up person should bring a valid form of identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, to the reunification site. This will help expedite the process and is required for staff to release a student to you.
Can someone else pick up my child if I’m unable to?
Yes, but the person must be listed as an emergency contact in the school’s system. It’s important to keep your emergency contact information updated and to notify those individuals that they may be required to assist in case of an emergency. Without proper identification or prior authorization, we will not release your child to someone else.
How long does the reunification process take?
The length of the reunification process can vary depending on the scale of the emergency and the number of students involved. Reuniting every student with their parent or guardian takes time. We ask for your patience during this process, as the safety of everyone in our care is our top priority.
What are some things I can share with my student if they are communicating with me during a reunification?
The most important thing is to reassure your child that the school has a plan and practices it to be prepared. You can help your child understand the importance of staying calm during an emergency and following instructions from teachers and staff. Let them know that the reunification process is designed to keep them safe, and that you or another trusted adult will come to pick them up. Be sure to tell them who that trusted adult might be. Also, let them know it's okay to ask questions at the reunification site—everyone there wants them to feel safe and supported.
How will I receive information about my child’s whereabouts during a reunification event?
During a reunification event, the District will use multiple communication channels to keep parents informed about the process and the location of their children. This may include: using mass phone calls, text messages, voice messages, and other means such as the District and school websites, and District social media sites. It's important to remember that the information provided directly by the District is the most accurate and reliable. We encourage you to avoid relying on unofficial sources on social media, as these can often lead to confusion. Additionally, information will be provided at the reunification site, where staff will assist in matching you with your child. It's important to follow any instructions provided by the school and please make sure that your contact information is up to date so we can reach you quickly and efficiently during such an event.
What is the role of law enforcement or first responders in the reunification process?
If you see first responders on-site during reunification, please understand that this is part of the plan. Law enforcement and first responders play a critical role in maximizing the safety of students, staff, and parents during the reunification process. They may help secure the reunification site, manage traffic and crowd control, and assist with overall coordination. Their presence contributes to maintaining order and safety.
What happens after reunification?
After students are reunited with their parents or guardians, follow-up communications will be sent to inform families about the next steps, including counseling or support services, schedule changes (if applicable), and any additional resources available to support students. If there is a serious and traumatic event, the District will work closely with local, state, and federal partners to determine the next steps based on the specific situation faced at the time. This approach is part of our comprehensive school safety planning process, which includes recovery efforts. Many supports and resources are available that align with leading practices to provide comprehensive care for students and families.
Additional Information
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For students with specialized medical or other needs, school officials will work to coordinate accommodations during the reunification process in order to meet these unique needs.
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For families in need of language supports (i.e., interpretation services) during the reunification process, school officials will additionally work to coordinate accommodations in order to meet family language/communication needs.
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Following the event, as was shared above, resources for support (including resources to support families) will be shared - relative to the event.
If you have any additional questions about the SRM, please contact your building principal or the Executive Director of Safety and Security at Danielle.Stevens@lz95.org.
Emergency Alert Notifications
Emergency Alert Notifications
Lake Zurich Community Unit School District 95 communicates regularly with parents using a mass electronic messaging system. Parents will receive automated phone calls, text messages, and emails during school emergencies. If families are not receiving messages, check to ensure that the correct phone and email address are on file. It is critical that the District has correct contact information for families during an emergency; please make sure to update any school emergency contact information for each child each time the information changes.
Please do not attempt to call the school during an emergency, the District will contact families with the information as soon as possible. Although there are people assigned to answer phones at school, these lines are likely to be overloaded during an emergency and are not the best source of information. Keep your phone with you during emergencies to receive updates.
For school emergency information, check the district website and watch for communications from the district to your phone or email.
Depending on the emergency, families may not be able to get close to the school and may be asked to wait in a safe area. If it is hazardous for students to be released, everyone will be kept inside the school until notified by the authorities that it is safe outside. Schools will act with the safety of students in mind, and school officials will always follow the directives of the police department and the fire department.
School Violence Reporting
School Violence Reporting
A student or parent should report potential crimes, acts of violence, weapons, or other serious violations of school policy immediately to a trusted adult in the school, or in the case of an emergency, by reporting it to 9-1-1. A trusted adult may be a teacher, dean, school counselor, school resource officer, or principal. Calling 9-1-1 or confiding in trusted adult are the best ways to share information about school violence.
Safe2Help Illinois: 24/7 Helpline
Call (844) 472-3345 OR text SAFE2 to 72332
Safe2Help Illinois features a 24/7 helpline (1-844-4-SAFEIL), a free mobile app, a text feature, and a dedicated website (www.Safe2Helpil.com).
A QR code for Safe2Help is available on the back of student ID cards in grades 6-12. The Safe2Help program offers students, teachers, staff and parents a safe and confidential way to share information that may help prevent suicides, bullying, school violence, and other threats to student safety. The helpline is staffed by specially-trained safety professionals, and students can use the helpline to share concerns about themselves or others.
Safe2Help SMS Terms and Conditions
- The State of Illinois has developed a school safety program called Safe2Help Illinois to raise awareness of 21st-century threats facing school children in Illinois. Safe2Help Illinois is a 24/7 program where students can use a free app, text/phone, website (Safe2HelpIllinois.com) and other social media platforms to report school safety issues in a confidential environment.
- You can cancel the SMS service at any time. Just text "STOP" to the short code. After yuo send the SMS message "STOP" to us, we will send you an SMS message to confirm that you have been unsubscribed. After this, you will no longer receive SMS messages from us. If you wan to join again, just send us a text on SAFE2(72232) as you did the first time, and we will start responding to your SMS messages again.
- If you are experiencing issues with the messaging program you can reply with the keyword HELP for more assistance, or you can get help directly at (844) 4723345.
- As always, message and data rates may apply for any messages sent to you from us and to us from you. If you have any questions about your text plan or data plan, it is best to contact your wireless provider.
- If you have any questions regarding privacy, please read our privacy policy.
Traffic Safety & Parking Lot Safety
- Drop-off and Pick-up by Car
- Walking to School
- Bus Safety for Students
- Biking to School
- Additional Resources
Drop-off and Pick-up by Car
Please remember the following guidelines when dropping off or picking up students:
- The curb is a place to drop-off and pick-up only. Do not park and leave the car at the curb.
- To drop-off, please pull forward in a single line until arriving at the curb in front of the building.
- To pick-up, please stay in the vehicle and move forward to the curb when the car(s) ahead in line advance. Students may enter their cars when they arrive at the curb.
- Please follow the directions of building staff.
- Do not drop students off or pick them up in the lane farthest from the curb or behind parked cars. This prevents students from crossing traffic or being hidden behind cars.
- Always cross at a crosswalk when available.
- Please stay off the phone during drop off and pick up times.
- Maintain a slow speed.
- Designated handicap spaces need to be available for those who truly need that special access. Do not park there unless a state-approved permit is displayed. It is a violation of the law and subject to a fine.
- Most importantly, pay attention. It is critically important to always drive with care.
Please contact the building principal with any questions about the existing drop-off/pick-up systems organized by the school.
Walking to School
Pedestrian Safety Tips:
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Make sure students have a safe route before allowing them to walk to school.
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Always cross at a crosswalk when available.
- Avoid darting out between cars.
- Stop at the curb before crossing the street.
- Walk, don’t run, across the street.
- Look LEFT, RIGHT and LEFT again before crossing.
- Walk facing traffic.
- Make sure drivers see all pedestrians before crossing in front of them.
- Cross at least 10 feet in front of a school bus.
For more resources and information on safe routes to school, visit the National Center for Safe Routes to School.
Bus Safety for Students
- Be at the bus stop at least 5 minutes before the assigned pickup time. Never run in front of, next to, or behind the bus.
- Wait in line for the school bus on the sidewalk.
- Keep hands and feet to self at the bus stop.
- Wait for the bus to stop completely and the door has opened before approaching the bus. Always stay away from the wheels. Get on the bus in a single file line and hold onto the handrail.
- Students should report to their assigned seat quickly. While riding the bus, face forward and keep the aisles clear. Talk quietly.
- Always listen to the bus driver.
- Keep head or hands (and other body parts) inside the bus at all times.
- Know where the emergency exits are, but do not play with them.
- Wait for the bus to stop completely before leaving the seat. Then, get off the bus in a single file line. Use the handrail when getting off the bus.
- When getting off, students should take five (5) giant steps away from the bus to ensure the driver can see them/is aware of their presence. (If students can’t see the driver’s eyes, they cannot see the student.)
- NEVER run back to get a forgotten item on the bus or pick up something dropped under the bus. NEVER bend down near or under the bus.
- If students must cross in front of the bus, they should always cross at least 10 feet (5 giant steps) and make sure that the driver can see them. Students should wait for the driver’s signal to cross, look both ways, and then cross the street carefully. Do not run.
For more resources and information on safe routes to school, visit the National Traffic Highway Safety Administration and District 95 Transportation:
Biking to School
Bike Safety
For those who bike to school, below are several resources with important messages on bicycle safety.
| The Federal Highway Administration |
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Bicycle Safer Journey |
| National Center for Safe Routes to School |
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| En Español – Ayudando a su hijo a ser un ciclista seguro |
| Ride Your Bike to Safely |
| En Español – Andar en tu bicicleta con seguridad |
| National Highway Traffic Safety Administration |
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| ABC Quick Check |
| Ideas to Promote Bicycle Safety |
| Bike Safety Resources |
Additional Resources
Promoting school safety creates an open space for kids to explore, learn and grow. Please see below for additional teen driving resources.
| National Highway Traffic Safety Administration |
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| Teen Driving Safety Materials |
| Teen Driving Road Safety |
| Railroad Safety |
| Centers for Disease Control & Prevention |
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| Risk Factors for Teen Drivers |
| Illinois Secretary of State |
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| Graduated Driver's License |
Human Trafficking
What Is Human Trafficking?
Human trafficking occurs when a trafficker uses force, fraud or coercion to control another person for the purpose of engaging in commercial sex acts or soliciting labor or services against his/her will. Force, fraud, or coercion need not be present if the individual engaging in commercial sex is under 18 years of age.
More Information and Access to the National Human Trafficking Hotline
Firearm Storage Safety
At Lake Zurich CUSD 95, the safety and well-being of our school community is our top priority. In collaboration with local first responders, the district is committed to delivering essential information regarding safe firearm storage.
Families interested in learning more about this topic may visit Project ChildSafe (button below). This initiative is committed to providing educators (including firearm instructors and K-12 teachers) and students with the resources they need to spread the message.
Past Safety Presentations
Cardiac Emergency Response Plan
Visiting District 95 Schools and Buildings
District 95 is committed to maintaining safe and welcoming learning environments for all students, staff, families, and visitors.
- What should I expect when arriving at a District 95 school or building?
- What is the Raptor VisitorSafe system?
- What is the visitor check-in process?
- What is the Raptor VolunteerSafe system?
What should I expect when arriving at a District 95 school or building?
All visitors and volunteers are required to enter through the main office and follow district check-in procedures. Visitors will be asked to present a valid government-issued ID, sign in through the district’s Raptor VisitorSafe system, and wear a visitor badge while on campus. Volunteers are required to complete the district’s Raptor VolunteerSafe screening process prior to participating in volunteer activities. These procedures help support the safety and security of students, staff, and visitors across all District 95 schools and buildings.
What is the Raptor VisitorSafe system?
Raptor VisitorSafe is a visitor management system used to support school safety and visitor accountability. Visitors are asked to present a government-issued ID, which is compared against sex offender registries and district-defined alert databases. If a match is identified, designated school personnel and the school resource officer (SRO) are notified. Once approved through the system, visitors receive a badge that includes their name, photo, date, time, and destination within the building.
What is the visitor check-in process?
Upon arrival, visitors will:
- Use the exterior video doorbell for initial screening and entry into the secure vestibule
- Check in at the Raptor Visitor Management kiosk
- Present a valid government-issued photo ID
- Have their photo taken for identity verification
- Select the purpose of their visit
- Receive and wear a visitor badge while in the building
Visitors are required to sign out when exiting the building.
What is the Raptor VolunteerSafe system?
Raptor VolunteerSafe helps schools manage volunteer applications, background screening, approvals, and communication. VolunteerSafe conducts a comprehensive background screening. Volunteers are also screened against the sex offender registry and district-defined databases prior to approval. District 95 utilizes the system to help maintain safe school environments while supporting volunteer participation in schools and activities.