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Student describes lockdown at Cabrillo; calls for clearer safety plans and immediate wellness support
Summary
A Cabrillo student told the board the school experienced an intruder lockdown on April 30, describing an hour of fear, low attendance afterward, and delayed access to the wellness center; she urged district‑wide security measures, immediate post‑incident supports, and more training/drills for staff and students.
A Cabrillo High School student recounted an April 30 lockdown during public comment and urged the district to adopt clearer, well‑publicized safety plans and immediate mental‑health supports after critical incidents.
Naomi Valenzuela told the board she and classmates were placed in lockdown after an announcement of an intruder: “Within seconds, everyone began running in panic… It was absolute chaos. We were in lockdown for an hour with minimal information and expecting the worst.” She said many students left campus the following day because of lingering fear and that the wellness center only became available the day after the incident.
Valenzuela asked the district to work with each school and law enforcement to create an all‑scenario safety plan, to require more training for teachers (including unexpected drills during passing periods, lunch and other times), and to ensure wellness centers are available immediately after traumatic events. She also urged hiring security guards for all schools and broader preventive measures.
Board members acknowledged the trauma described. The speaker emphasized that while school staff acted courageously, the district must clarify expectations and provide immediate debriefing and counseling after incidents.
Next steps: The commenter asked the board to adopt comprehensive safety plans, increase drills and staff training, and ensure immediate access to wellness supports; no formal action was taken during the meeting but the concern was recorded for follow up by district staff.
