Safety, Security and Preparedness

Preparedness & Training 

Throughout the school year, Olentangy Schools conducts regular safety drills and preparedness exercises to ensure students and staff are familiar with emergency procedures. Each building completes required fire drills, tornado drills, and additional state-mandated safety drills, including age-appropriate lockdown scenarios. 

These efforts are strengthened through our ongoing partnership with the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office, which provides training, safety education, and regular assessments of our school buildings and procedures. 

Proactive Safety Measures 

In addition to emergency response planning, the district prioritizes prevention through layered safety practices, including: 

• Secure building entrances and visitor management procedures 
• Ongoing staff training on safety protocols and threat awareness 
• Collaboration with law enforcement and emergency responders 
• Building- and district-level safety teams that monitor and respond to concerns 

These proactive measures help us identify and address potential issues early and maintain secure learning environments. 

Supporting Student Well-Being 

Safety includes both physical and emotional well-being. Our school counselors, mental health specialists and student support teams are available to assist students before, during, and after challenging situations. We are committed to creating an environment where students feel safe, supported, and connected. 

All safety drills and conversations are conducted in an age-appropriate and supportive manner to help students feel prepared and confident—not alarmed. 

Reporting Concerns 

We encourage students, families, and community members to speak up if they see or hear something concerning. 

Through the Stay Safe. Speak Up! anonymous reporting system, individuals can confidentially report potential safety concerns, bullying, or threats. Every report is taken seriously and reviewed by trained staff. 

In the Event of an Emergency 

In any emergency, the district follows established protocols in coordination with local first responders. 

Families will receive timely updates through official communication channels, which may include phone calls, emails, text messages, and updates to the district website. 

To allow emergency personnel to respond effectively, families are asked not to come directly to a school building unless directed to do so. Clear instructions will be provided as soon as possible. 

Student Reunification 

If an emergency requires student reunification, the district follows a structured process to ensure safety and accountability. 

• Students will only be released to authorized individuals listed in school records 
• A valid photo ID is required 
• Families will receive specific instructions about reunification locations and procedures 

This process is designed to safely and efficiently reunite students with their families. 

Stay Informed 

Keeping your contact information up to date is essential for receiving emergency notifications. Families are encouraged to regularly review and update their contact details in PowerSchool, the district’s student information system. 

Partnering with Families 

Maintaining safe schools is a shared responsibility. Families can support school safety by: 

• Encouraging students to report concerns 
• Using the Stay Safe. Speak Up! system when needed 
• Keeping emergency contact information current in PowerSchool 
• Following school and district guidance during emergencies 

Together, we can continue to provide a safe, caring, and secure environment for all students. 

Learn More / Additional Safety Resources 

• Olentangy Schools Safety & Wellness Playbook (coming soon)
• Standard Response Protocol 
• PowerSchool Update Instructions