Standard Response Protocol

January 9, 2025

Good morning, DPS 109 families,

We are writing to share important information about new terminology that District 109 is adopting for emergency responses this school year. This initiative is called the Standard Response Protocol (SRP), which we have implemented to prioritize the safety and security of our students and staff.

The Standard Response Protocol was developed by the "I Love U Guys" Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing school safety. The foundation was established by Ellen and John-Michael Keyes after the tragic loss of their daughter, Emily, during an active threat incident in 2006. Since its founding, the organization has worked tirelessly to improve safety protocols in schools nationwide. The SRP has been widely adopted by school districts across the country.

The SRP offers a clear, consistent, and easy-to-understand framework for responding to various emergencies, including severe weather, fires, and potential threats inside or outside the school. It is based on five key actions: Hold, Secure, Lockdown, Evacuate, and Shelter.

To help familiarize you with the new terminology, I have created a short video explaining the SRP. You can watch it below:

Below is an example of the signage that will be displayed in classrooms and throughout our buildings.

Our school has implemented the SRP to ensure a unified and effective response during emergencies. Staff have recently been trained on the new protocol, and all students will receive training next Wednesday, January 15. The new terminology will officially go into effect that day. Throughout the year, schools will conduct regular drills to practice each action. These preparations are designed to reduce anxiety and confusion during real emergencies. Additionally, we have shared the SRP with our local police and fire departments to ensure they are familiar with our response procedures.

We remain committed to prioritizing the safety of our students, and adopting the Standard Response Protocol is an essential step in ensuring their well-being. For more information about the SRP and the "I Love U Guys" Foundation, please visit their website: I Love U Guys SRP.

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to me at sjurmu@dps109.org or contact your building principal.

Sincerely,

Solvei Jurmu
Director of Safety & Security
Deerfield Public Schools District 109