Reunification
Circumstances may occur at a school that require parents/guardians to pick up their students in a formalized, controlled release. This process is called a Reunification and may be necessary due to severe weather, a power outage, hazmat or if a crisis occurs at the school. The Standard Reunification Method is a protocol that makes this process more predictable and less chaotic for all involved. Because a reunification is not a typical end of school day event, a reunification may occur at a different location than the school a student attends. If this location is another school, then those students may be subject to a controlled release as well.
Notification
Families will be notified of a Reunification situation via automated phone message and email from the district. If a family has opted to receive text messages, a text may also be sent. Information will also be posted on our district and school websites.
Reunification Expectations
When picking up your child at a reunification site:
- Bring a valid, state-issued ID.
- Students will only be released to individuals previously identified as their emergency contact. [Update emergency contacts in PowerSchool].
- Be patient. Reunification is a process that protects student safety and provides for an accountable change of custody from the school to a recognized custodial parent or guardian. It will take some time.
Instructions for Families During a Reunification Process
We ask for your patience and understanding as we work to safely reunite you with your children. Please understand that this process may take several hours to complete.
Here’s what you can expect during the process:
As You Arrive:
- Have your photo ID ready
- Take one Reunification Form for each of your children
- Be seated in the designated parent/guardian area
- Read and fill out both sides of the Reunification Card
- Follow those in front of you in an organized fashion
As You Wait To Check-In:
- Have your photo ID ready
- Line up single file
- Wait for the Greeter to admit you to the Check-In Area
As You Enter The Reunification Line:
- Stand in the parent/guardian line
- Wait for your child(ren) to appear
- Walk with your child(ren) to the Check-Out Table
- Hand your slip(s) to a Reunifier
- Exit at the door indicated
If you have questions throughout the Reunification process, please find one of the staff/volunteers wearing a vest.
Thank you for your patience.
Instructions for Students During a Reunification Process
We ask for your patience and understanding as we work to safely reunite you with your family. Please understand that this process may take several hours to complete.
As you arrive at the Reunification Site:
- Wait patiently while a staff/volunteer reviews the bus attendance sheet to confirm they have all of the information they need
- When you receive word that it is time to exit the bus, follow the adults to the secured facility
As you wait to be reunified:
- Be patient and remain calm
- Carefully follow the instructions provided by staff and other helpers
- Write your full name (first, middle and last) and birth date on the card provided
- Watch the screen for your name and/or listen for your name to be called
- When you see or hear your name, turn in your card to staff at the table by the exit
- Follow the instructions to exit and be reunified with your parent/guardian
Please check with an adult if you need anything, including:
- To use the bathroom
- Have a medical need or emergency
- Food or water
If you have questions throughout the Reunification process, please find one of the staff/volunteers wearing a vest.
Thank you for your patience.