Department of Operations
-
In accordance with the Asbestos Hazards Emergency Response Act (AHERA), all Charle City schools have been inspected by a firm using accredited inspectors identifying all known and assumed asbestos-containing building materials. This inspection, required every three years, was performed in November 2025 to meet required compliance.
The findings of the inspection, re-inspections, surveillance reports, and laboratory analysis of samples are categorized in the district's Asbestos Operations and Management Plan. -
-
Hold
Used when there is a need to remain in a classroom or area, even during class transitioning. Can be used for such events as a medical emergency, unruly students in the hallway, or whenever an incident requires all students and staff to remain in their current positions.
- Students will clear the hallways and remain in a room or area until the “All Clear” is announced.
- Teachers will close and lock the doors to rooms or areas (if possible).
- Teachers will account for students and adults.
- Classroom activities will continue uninterrupted.
Secure Lockout
Directed when there is a threat or hazard outside the school. Whether it is due to violence or criminal activity or a dangerous animal on the playground, a lockout uses the security of the physical facility as a protective measure.
- No students allowed outside of buildings and/or portable classrooms (no P.E., recess, etc.).
- All building exterior doors are closed and locked.
- Where possible, classroom activities will continue uninterrupted.
Lockdown
Directed when there is a threat or hazard inside the school building. From serious altercations to intruders to active shooter situations, lockdown uses classroom security to protect students and staff from the threat.
- All students stay in place with a teacher or staff member.
- Students and teachers remain in locked classrooms, locating “safe zones” within each classroom.
- No one enters or exits the school, except law enforcement or incident response personnel.
Evacuate
Implemented when there is a need to move students from one facility to another.
- Officials conducting or supervising evacuation will vary based on the school and incident taking place.
- Students will proceed to designated evacuation area. If separated from their class, students should join any evacuation line and identify themselves to the teacher in their group after arriving at the evacuation site.
Shelter
Shelter is called when the need for personal protection is necessary. This may include events such as a tornado, earthquake or hazardous material spill.
- Shelter strategies may include evacuate to a shelter area, seal the room or drop and cover.
- Schools will identify potential shelter situations and designate specific responses, as appropriate.
-
A lock-down drill is required at least once during the first 20 days of each school session, and at least one additional after the first 60 days of a school session. Every public school is required by Virginia Code to provide parents of enrolled students with at least 24 hours’ notice before the school conducts any lock-down drill.