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Safety and Security

At Marion County School District, the safety and well-being of our students, staff, and visitors remain our top priority. We are committed to fostering a secure, supportive learning environment through comprehensive safety protocols and innovative technology. As part of this commitment, we have implemented the following district-wide safety measures:

  • CENTEGIX CrisisAlert System
    The CENTEGIX CrisisAlert system has been installed in every school and administrative office throughout the district. This cutting-edge safety solution empowers staff to discreetly alert school administrators and emergency personnel at the push of a button. The system ensures immediate response during emergencies—whether medical, behavioral, or security-related—enhancing both communication and coordination in critical moments.

  • Triton Vape Detection Sensors
    To support a healthier school environment, Triton vape detection sensors have been installed in all middle and high schools. These sensors monitor changes in air quality and detect vaping or other concerning activities in restrooms and unsupervised areas. Alerts are sent to designated staff members, helping to reduce incidents and promote student wellness and accountability.

These tools reflect Marion County School District’s proactive approach to school safety. By investing in advanced security technology, we aim to create an environment where students can thrive—feeling safe, supported, and ready to learn.

EMERGENCY SITUATIONS

If you learn of a school or an area emergency, please do not rush to school to pick up your child. Additional traffic will block any needed emergency vehicles. Your presence in the school building could delay the evacuation process. Each school’s emergency response plan includes procedures for protecting children as the first priority, followed by a system of reuniting them with you in a safe, orderly, and timely manner.  As parents, you play an essential role in keeping students safe during an emergency. Please know that our highest concern is your child’s safety. The district and each school have emergency response plans covering natural disasters and other emergencies. If you wish to discuss specific concerns or have any questions regarding our safety plans, call your school principal or the district’s emergency services manager at 843.423.1811.

What you should know:

Lockdown

This is a response to an immediate threat to the campus such as an intruder in the building. Classrooms and all entrances are locked. Students remain in their classrooms with their teacher and no one is permitted to enter or leave the building until the situation is resolved. Staff and law enforcement (school resource officer) will be in the halls.

A lockdown is usually for a short duration. The lockdown will be canceled as soon as it is determined the threat no longer exists.

Hold

This is in response to a general threat to the area or campus. All entrances are locked and no one is permitted to leave the building. Normal instructional activities continue. Staff and law enforcement (school resource officer) will be in the halls. Anyone entering the building will be required to state the reason they need to come in (pick up a student for a doctor’s appointment) and show a photo ID.

A hold may continue for an extended period of time and will be canceled when the threat no longer exists.

With both procedures, as parents, you should know that your student is in a secure environment with increased staff and law enforcement presence. We would ask that you not come to the school unless it is an absolute emergency. You are placing yourself and others in danger by entering the threat area.

 

    

RESOURCES

ILUG - Standard Response Protocol-ENG

ILUG - Standard Response Protocol-SP

ILUG - SRP - Public Address Poster