CPS Uses Standard Response Protocol in Emergencies to Support Clear and Consistent Communication

Columbus Public Schools uses the nationally recognized Standard Response Protocol (SRP) developed by the “I Love You Guys” Foundation.  This framework improves safety, communication, and consistency across all our schools.  

The SRP is an all-hazards approach designed to provide a clear, common language that students, staff, teachers, and local first responders can instantly understand and execute during an emergency.  Rather than managing every unique scenario with a different plan, the protocol relies on five specific, action-oriented commands.

The five operational actions of the SRP are:

• HOLD (“In Your Classroom Area”)
  • When used: For minor incidents or medical emergencies in the hallway to keep walkways clear.
  • Action: Cler the hallways, lock classroom doors, and continue business as usual until an “All Clear” is announced.
• SECURE (“Get Inside. Lock Outside Doors”)
  • When used: For a threat or hazard located outside the school building (e.g., police activity in the neighborhood or dangerous wildlife).
  • Action: Bring everyone indoors, lock exterior doors, increase situational awareness, and continue regular classroom activities.
• LOCKDOWN (“Locks, Lights, Out of Sight”
  • When used: For an immediate threat or hazard inside the school building.
  • Action: Lock classroom doors, turn off lights, move away from sight, maintian absolute silence, and do not open the door until law enforcement or administration physically unlocks it.
• EVACUATE (“Evacuate to [Location]”)
  • When used: Whe students and staff need to move to a different locationd ue to an internal hazard such as a gas leak or fire.
  • Action: Leave non-essential items behind, follow designated paths calmly and take attendance at the safe meeting area.
• SHELTER (“Shelter for [Hazard] using [Safety Strategy]”)
  • ​​​​​​​When used: For environment threats such as tornados, severe weather, or hazardous materials.
  • Action: Follow specific safety instructions, such as move to designated tornado shelter spaces or sealing a room for hazardous spills.

Visit the I Love U Guys Foundaton official website to learn more about SRP. Click here to go to the i love you guys website.