Deputy, SROs outline simplified emergency plan as Vermillion schools roll out Standard Response Protocol

Deputy Armstrong and SRO Officer Stanley briefed the Vermillion School District 13-1 board on the district’s adoption of the Standard Response Protocol on Feb. 12, saying the system uses five plain-language responses—Hold, Secure, Lockdown, Evacuate and Shelter—to help staff and students act quickly during emergencies.

Armstrong said the district sent SRP materials to faculty and that staff training was conducted at building-level meetings. Officer Stanley walked the board through each action and gave examples: 'Hold' to stop movement during on-site medical incidents; 'Secure' as a soft lockdown to limit movement inside the building; 'Lockdown' for active threats; 'Evacuate' for hazards that require moving people outside; and 'Shelter' for severe weather. "These are the actions that you take," Stanley said, describing how clear, repeated messaging builds muscle memory for staff and students.

Board members asked whether signage and classroom materials had been distributed; the presenters confirmed posters and larger hallway signs are in place. Deputy Armstrong and district staff said the South Dakota School Safety Center hosted training that district staff and local first responders attended. Armstrong noted the materials from the I Love You Guys foundation are provided free of charge.

District staff also described how they coordinate drills with EMS and fire departments and said Department of Homeland Security consults on safety features like door security when needed. Superintendent Dr. Alvey and board members thanked the officers and staff for implementing a user-friendly protocol and noted the SRP will be incorporated into ongoing emergency planning.

The board did not take formal action on SRP that evening; the briefing was presented during the 'Challenger Happenings' portion of the meeting. The district said it will continue building-level training and review as new staff arrive.