Active Assailant/Lockdown Drills & Exercises
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Training and emergency exercises are fundamental components of a comprehensive school safety preparedness program and should incorporate many activities. These activities should blend direct instruction (training and walkthroughs) and experiential learning (drills and exercises) methods. This blended approach helps develop the knowledge and skills necessary for a school’s response to all hazards.
In an effort to increase positive student and staff outcomes following training and drills, Maryland enacted legislation, Maryland House Bill 416, 2024 Session (Chapter 182), that specifically prohibits schools from using techniques that simulate an active assailant scenario. These banned techniques include simulated gunfire, explosions, and individuals acting as intruders. Additional MCSS requirements were enacted within the bill, which have led to the development of the following resources and initiatives.
MCSS Impact of Lockdown Drills 2025 Webinar
Information about year one survey results of the psychological impact and effectiveness of lockdown drills in Maryland public schools is shared during this one hour webinar.
Active Assailant/Lockdown Drill Documents
The best practice guidance is updated annually informed by results of the lockdown drill survey.
The Maryland Guidelines for Active Assailant Exercises and Training - PDF - 898.41 KB
The lockdown drill survey should be shared with students, caregivers, and school staff after a lockdown drill occurs.
MCSS Lockdown Drill Impact Survey - English - PDF - 456.62 KB
MCSS Lockdown Drill Impact Survey - Spanish - PDF - 292.4 KB
MCSS in collaboration with the University of Maryland School of Medicine, National Center for Schools Mental Health is conducting research on the psychological impact and effectiveness of lockdown drills.
Literature Review of Impact of Lockdown Drills - PDF - 7.29 MB
Lockdown Drill Impact Study Podcast
Listen in while Dr. Jerica Knox shares highlights from the 2024-2025 survey results about the impact on lockdown drills.
Lockdown Drill Impact StudyReport a Concern About a Lockdown Drill
The form linked below is intended to provide a means by which an individual can provide information to Maryland state officials related to a school active assailant drill or training that they believe is traumatizing.
Information provided will allow state officials to engage with local school personnel. As outlined in the statute, the Center, after consultation with the Maryland State Department of Education shall make the final determination as to whether the component complies with the requirements.