Emergency Procedures

Student safety and security - A top priority

Bad weather: Is school open?

As we all know, weather on the Gulf Coast of Texas can be anything but predictable! In the event of inclement weather, listen to your local radio or TV stations for information about school closings or go directly to the district website: www.springbranchisd.com.

In the event of an emergency, Spring Branch ISD will also initiate an automated phone call alerting parents of school closures or delays. Please be sure to keep your contact information updated with your campus at all times. Spring Branch ISD will also post information on our main telephone number at (713) 251-2000.

Who provides district/school security?

The Spring Branch ISD Police Department oversees security for the school district. Full-time officers patrol schools and assist in investigations and provide security and law enforcement services at athletic and after-hours special events such as football games and graduation.

Westchester Academy for International Studies (WAIS) is committed to maintaining a safe and supportive learning environment for all students and staff. We regularly review campus safety practices and conduct required emergency drills to ensure students and staff are prepared to respond appropriately in the event of an emergency.

In all situations, our first priority is student safety, supervision, and accountability.

Campus Safety & Support

WAIS works in partnership with Spring Branch ISD Police Department and district safety personnel to support campus safety. Our campus also has designated safety staff who help monitor and support daily safety operations and emergency preparedness.

Emergency Drills

Students and staff participate in emergency drills throughout the year, which may include:

  • Fire Drills/Severe Weather Drills/Lockdown Drills/Evacuation Procedures
     

Drills are conducted monthly to ensure students understand expectations and staff can practice safety routines in a calm, organized way.

Fire / Building Emergencies

If a fire alarm or building emergency occurs:

  • Students will evacuate to designated safe areas
  • Staff will take attendance and confirm student safety
  • Emergency responders will be contacted as needed
  • Students will remain supervised until the campus is cleared

If a parent is picking up a student while a drill is being conducted, the parent will need to wait until the drill is completed. 

Emergency Communication to Families

WAIS and Spring Branch ISD will communicate emergency information through official district and campus channels. Depending on the situation, families may receive updates through:

  • SBISD messaging (phone/email/text)
  • District and/or campus website updates

Please note: During an emergency, communication may be delayed as staff focus on student safety and following emergency protocols.