Frequently Asked Questions
This document has been developed to inform our parent community about our practices and procedures in the event of a school emergency or crisis. This list of FAQ’s is not exhaustive nor does it encompass all that the school has in place to deal with an emergency. If you have additional questions or concerns, please address them to your child’s teacher, Mrs. Hafez, or Mrs. Rydman.
How often does the school conduct drills to prepare students and staff for an emergency?
Emergency drills are conducted monthly.
Where will I be able to find with my child in case of an emergency?
Students will be gathered on the school field in class and/or grade level groupings. Staff is assigned to supervise students until they can be released to parents/guardians.
What is the procedure to collect my child?
Go directly to the Student Release center – a table will be set up outside of Dolphin Club Daycare Portable Classroom (adjacent to baseball backstop). School staff will confirm that the student is on the field and that the parent/guardian has the right to collect the child (this is done through information collected through parent portal account so be sure that yours is always up to date). A staff member assigned as a “runner” will be sent to locate the child and bring the child to the Student Release table. Upon confirmation of identity, the child will be released to the parent/guardian.
May I pick up children who are not mine?
If you are on the contact list and have written permission to take the child, and have been specifically asked to pick up a child other than your own, the Student Release Team may allow you to pick another child. However, in the event of an emergency or disaster, this will be considered on a case by case basis.
Why can’t I go directly to the field to find my child?
Our school is responsible for each and every student and we are required to verify identities of parents/guardians before we allow students to leave campus. Supervisory staff will direct parents looking for their children to the Student Release Center. Please respect the process and be patient as our staff works to reunite you with your child.
In the event of a Shelter in Place (Lock Down) incident, how will I know if my child is safe?
Students will be cared for by the classroom teacher and/or staff member in charge of them at the time of the lock down. The Irvine Police Department will organize evacuation of the building and reunification of children and parents when the area has been secured and deemed safe for exit. There will likely be notification sent out from either the Irvine Unified School District, the Irvine Police Department or both via email or phone, to provide information and directions to parents. Parents are encouraged to follow the directions provided by the authorities with regard to approaching the school and reuniting with their children.
What if I can’t get to the school to collect my child?
Our site is stocked with food, water, medical supplies, latrines and blankets. Staff is required by law to remain on site until all students are reunited with their families. Children will be cared for by trained staff until parents arrive.
What happens if my child gets hurt?
We have a trained First Aid team who will assess injuries, triage treatment and care for injured students to the best of their abilities. Authorities will be notified of serious injuries and will arrive at Eastshore as soon as they are able.
If my child is hurt and is in First Aid, will I be able to go to him/her?
Depending on the severity of the injury and the number of people in the First Aid area, you may be able to join your child. If the injury is minor, your child may be released to you. If your child has been taken to the hospital, you will be notified.
What if my child is missing?
We have a systematic method of determining and identifying missing students and staff. The Search and Rescue Team is the first to move into action once attendance has been taken. If a student does not exit the building with his/her class, we will find them, treat them for injuries and do everything in our power to reunite you with your child