Code Red

For the first time in Fort Osage SD history Code Red was called today. Can’t say that I feel lucky to be a part of the experience.

My kiddos had just begun Writer’s Workshop (their absolute favorite part of the day) when our secretary almost frantically called out “Code Red- this is NOT a drill” over the intercom. I don’t know if my heart has ever stopped beating that quickly. My first thought was “crap, I’ve never looked at the procedure for Code Red”. Then I pulled it together turned off the light, locked my door and rushed my kiddos into hiding.

They are smart kiddos. They picked up on the “this is not a drill” and although some were reasonably frightened did an amazing job crowding behind our bookshelf where they couldn’t be seen from the hall OR the windows.

So after they were all settled (19 kids in about a 5 foot hiding spot), I was able to explain (whispering) that it is probably no big deal and everything was going to be OK. I even added “ya know, this probably IS a drill and they’re just making sure we know what to do”. Although I knew that wasn’t the case and it’s hard to tell them not to panic when the curiosity and not knowing are starting to get to you.

So after about 45 minutes we, needless to say, realized it wasn’t a drill. Want a challenge? Hide with 19 kindergarten kids and keep them quite/calmed down and still for 45 minutes.

Apparently there was an assault at nearby apartments (note to self: don’t choose to live at those apartments) and the men were on the loose with at least one gun.

I can definitely say it was probably the most eventful day I’ve experienced as a teacher at this point. And I thank God it wasn’t a more serious Code Red (ie School Shooting, intruder, etc.).