Dear Parents/Guardians,
At Shaler Area Middle School, ensuring a safe and secure learning environment for our students and staff is always our highest priority. One key component of maintaining that safety is routinely practicing our emergency procedures so that everyone is prepared to respond effectively if needed.
Throughout the school year, all Shaler Area schools conduct a variety of safety drills as part of our district-wide emergency preparedness plan. We utilize the Standard Response Protocol (SRP), a structured approach that provides clear and consistent procedures for different situations. The SRP includes five key actions: Hold, Secure, Lockdown, Evacuate, and Shelter. To learn more about this protocol and find answers to common questions, please visit the I Love U Guys foundation website.
As we approach the end of the school year, we want to make you aware of the following scheduled drills:
- Thursday, March 27, 2025 – Annual Lockdown Drill
- Between March 28 – June 2, 2025 – Monthly Fire Drills and our annual Shelter Drill for weather preparedness.
During the annual lockdown drill you may notice an increased police presence at Shaler Area Middle School. This is part of the standard protocol and procedures for running a lockdown drill.
We’re sharing this information ahead of time to ensure families are aware and to prevent any unnecessary concern if students mention a drill taking place. We also encourage you to have a conversation with your child about these drills, emphasizing that they are simply practice to help everyone stay safe. Reassure them that there’s nothing to worry about and being prepared helps us all respond calmly and effectively in any situation that may arise.
Your support and cooperation are greatly appreciated. While we hope to never face a real emergency, we know that regular practice helps us stay ready for an emergency we may encounter.
If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You can contact me at the Main Office at 412-492-1200, press 8, then 2506.
Thank you in advance,
Mr. Mitch Shaw
SAMS Assistant Principal
