School Emergency Operations Plan

The safety and well-being of your children are our priority at St. Francis of Assisi School. We are committed to supporting safe and welcoming learning environments where your child can grow in their faith.

The school has a comprehensive emergency management plan focused on prevention, protection, mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery.

St. Francis of Assisi School has a crisis team that meets regularly to review plans, train staff, and coordinate emergency drills.

In addition to planning, we conduct emergency drills throughout the school year so that students and staff are aware of emergency protocols and procedures. St. Francis of Assisi School performs tornado, lockdown, and fire drills.

The Diocese of Des Moines Schools have also conducted tabletop exercises in partnership with police, fire, and emergency response services to test and improve our plans.

For several important reasons, many specific details about response plans are not shared publicly. However, we feel it is important for families to have an overview of our plan and how they can help during emergencies. Parents are able to view this overview here as a link or below.


Raptor Entry System – At SFA School we utilize a visitor system upon entry into the school called Raptor. As a visitor you will need to bring your driver’s license the first time each school year to become set in the system. Please see the video below for more information about Raptor.


ALICE Training – At SFA School our staff is training in ALICE protocols each year. The students also undergo active shooter drills during the school year so they are prepared. Please see the video below for more information on ALICE training. Visit alicetraining.com for further information.


Gun safety – SFA School is sharing information for all families to best protect all students from potential gun injuries and/or gun violence. Please see the video below for more information or visit besmartforkids.org.