Health and Safety
The health, safety, and well-being of every student and staff member is our highest priority. The Met is committed to creating a learning environment where students feel safe, supported, and ready to learn.
This section provides important information about school health services, emergency procedures, safety protocols, and how we communicate with families during emergencies. While we hope these procedures are rarely needed, practicing and understanding them helps ensure that everyone knows what to do when it matters most.
School Health
Our school nurses provide care for students during the school day, manage medications, respond to illnesses and injuries, and work closely with families to support students with ongoing health needs.
Families should notify the school nurse of any significant medical conditions, allergies, or changes in a student's health. Required health forms and medication procedures are available through the Health Office.
School Safety
The Met works closely with local police, fire departments, emergency management officials, and community partners to maintain safe campuses. Our schools regularly practice emergency drills and review procedures with students and staff throughout the year.
Our goal is always to respond calmly, communicate clearly, and return students to learning as safely and quickly as possible.
Emergency Response Protocols
HOLD
Clear the hallways and common areas.
There are situations that require students and staff to remain in their classrooms or stay out of access areas. For example, an altercation in the hallway may require keeping students out of the halls until it is resolved. A medical issue may require a room to be cleared and an exit route open and clear in case outside medical assistance is required. There may be a need for students who are not in a classroom to proceed to an area where they can be supervised and remain safe.SECURE
Get Inside. Lock Outside doors.
The secure action is called when there is a threat or hazard outside of the school building. Whether it's due to activity in the neighborhood or a dangerous animal in the area, the security of the physical facility acts as protection.
LOCKDOWN
Move quickly and quietly to a secure space.
Lockdown is called when there is a potential threat near the school building. Lockdown uses classroom and school security actions to protect students and staff from the threat.
SHELTER-IN-PLACE
Lock doors, lights out, get out of sight.
Shelter-in-Place is called when there is an immediate threat or danger to the school. During a Shelter-in-Place, students, staff, and visitors must take immediate action to protect themselves. Move quickly to the safest shelter location and remain hidden.
Evacuation
If it is safer to leave the building, students and staff will evacuate to a designated safe location under the direction of school staff and emergency responders.
Fire Drills and Other Safety Drills
Throughout the school year, students and staff participate in scheduled fire drills and other emergency preparedness exercises. These drills help ensure everyone understands the procedures and can respond quickly and safely if needed.
Emergency Communications
If an emergency affects school operations, families will receive information as quickly as possible through the Met's communication systems, which may include:
- Phone calls
- Text messages
- The Met website
- Official social media channels
Families are encouraged to keep their emergency contact information current so they can receive timely updates.
Wellness & Support
Safety also means supporting students' emotional and mental well-being. Advisors, social workers, school nurses, administrators, and support staff work together to help students navigate challenges, access resources, and stay connected to their school community.
If you have concerns about your student's health, safety, or well-being, please contact your student's advisor or school coordinator. We are here to help.