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School Safety and Security

School safety and security covers the steps schools take to protect students and staff from harm, including drills, building security, emergency plans, and health guidelines. Districts make most decisions, with states setting requirements and federal agencies offering guidance and some funding.

People usually ask what safety measures schools use, how lockdown and other drills work, and where to find official safety resources. They also ask how health and emergency guidance applies to schools, who is responsible for school safety, and how security measures are balanced with students' well-being.

3articles
June 7last updated

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All Articles on School Safety and Security

School Safety Drills in America: From Fire Alarms to Lockdowns

The rhythmic clang of a fire alarm, the urgent command to "drop, cover, and hold on," the quiet tension of a lockdown – these…

27 Min Read

School Health and Safety: CDC Guidelines

When your child walks into school, they're entering a building with hundreds of other kids who might be carrying flu viruses, stomach bugs, strep…

25 Min Read

School Safety and Security Resources

SchoolSafety.gov is a comprehensive website created through a collaborative interagency effort by the federal government. This platform serves as a one-stop access point for…

15 Min Read