Demonstrating an unwavering commitment to student safety, all schools within the Fallbrook Union Elementary School District (FUESD) took part in The Great Shake Out on Thursday, October 19th, as part of California’s largest statewide earthquake drill. With heightened focus this year, every FUESD school engaged in this critical event, ensuring that over 5,000 students and staff were thoroughly prepared to respond to an earthquake scenario.
The Great Shake Out, an annual event that emphasizes the importance of earthquake preparedness, saw students across the district practicing the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” procedure. Teachers and staff worked together to conduct detailed evacuation drills, fostering a deeper understanding of earthquake safety procedures. With increased participation, FUESD has gone beyond basic preparation, incorporating enhanced communication and post-drill evaluations to ensure readiness at every level.
“Our priority is always the safety of our students, and participating in The Great Shake Out is a key part of our efforts to create a culture of preparedness,” said Leonard Rodriguez, Senior Director of Student Services. “This year, we took additional steps to ensure that every student and staff member is not only equipped with the right tools for an emergency but also understands the importance of staying calm and acting swiftly.”
The district’s safety protocols are more comprehensive than ever, including updated emergency response plans, regular safety drills, and continued collaboration with local first responders. The Great Shake Out is one of several initiatives FUESD employs to reinforce the importance of safety and emergency preparedness across all campuses.