Despite the wave of violence sweeping in schools across the country, the administration will keep Gunn security at the status quo. In other words, students and teachers will continue to follow Code Yellow lock-down procedures in any violent situation or emergency.

Code Yellow lock-down procedure is triggered by the signal “code yellow” over the intercom system. Teachers are to lock and close classroom doors, while students are to stay away from windows, turn of the lights and remain quiet. Yellow alert cards will then be placed on door knobs.

Students outside a classroom should immediately get into the nearest building or classroom and get under a desk or table. Students close to the area of emergency should move away from danger and take cover inside.

Students in the fields or away from the center of the campus will go to designated safe locations. In the event of communication failure, the administration has three alternative plans for communication.

Over the last four years, Gunn has gone into a Code Yellow on three occasions. Last spring, when a patient broke out of the Veterans’ Hospital, students who remained after school were required to follow basic procedure. “It didn’t seem really necessary, but I guess they just weren’t taking any chances,” sophomore Wesley Koo said.

Two years ago, a Russian group renting Spangenberg Theater left props and equipment, including prop guns. The school immediately responded by ordering a Code Yellow lock-down. “We realized what happened later, but the procedure worked well,” Principal Noreen Likins said.

Four years ago, a student brought a BB gun on campus, which caused yet another lock-down.

At a meeting in February, administrators and district officials will be deciding whether or not to add a “Code Red” procedure. “I can’t say that it is because of that recent violence that we are thinking about enacting a Code Red,” Likins said. “We have been planning this for a while now.”

Differences between Code Red and Code Yellow are basic. Code Red is only announced if an active shooter is on campus. Students will also build barriers around the doors to prevent entry.

Administrators know that the threat of school violence is possible, even at Gunn. “It could happen here, but it is highly unlikely,” Likins said. “Still, we have to be prepared for it.”