Soft Lockdown: Not Your Average Netflix Chill
So, you've heard the term "soft lockdown" floating around, especially if you're a New Yorker or have kids in the NYC DOE. Let's clear up the confusion. It's not a fancy new yoga pose, and it definitely doesn't involve sweatpants and endless binging.
What's the Deal, Anyway?
Imagine your school is a fortress. A really chill fortress. A soft lockdown is like putting up the drawbridge but still letting people hang out in the courtyard. It's when there's a potential threat outside the school, like a nearby police situation or a suspicious package. The school goes on high alert, but classes usually continue as normal.
Key points to remember:
- No one's coming in or out: Think of it as a school-wide "Do Not Disturb" sign.
- Classes carry on: Unless your teacher's a drama queen, lessons should continue.
- Stay calm and carry on: It's more like a precautionary measure than a full-blown panic attack.
Soft Lockdown vs. Hard Lockdown: Not Your Average Sibling Rivalry
Let's be clear: a soft lockdown is not a hard lockdown. In a hard lockdown, it's like a zombie apocalypse. Everyone hunkers down, locks doors, and pretends they're not there. A soft lockdown is more like a controlled panic - everyone's on edge, but life goes on.
So, What Should You Do?
- Listen to your teachers: They're the captains of this ship.
- Stay calm: Panicking won't solve anything.
- Keep informed: Check for updates from the school or local authorities.
- Don't be a hero: Avoid trying to be a detective or a security guard.
Remember: Soft lockdowns are usually brief. It's all about safety first.
How To... Soft Lockdown Edition
- How to stay calm during a soft lockdown: Deep breaths, mindfulness techniques, and a good book can help.
- How to inform your parents about a soft lockdown: Quick call or text with basic info.
- How to behave during a soft lockdown: Follow school instructions and avoid rumors.
- How to prepare for a soft lockdown: Stay informed about school emergency procedures.
- How to differentiate between a soft and hard lockdown: Remember: soft = outside threat, hard = inside threat.