Each October, the Douglas County School District (DCSD) Security Team visits American Academy campuses to lead staff security training and schoolwide lockdown drills. To allow all staff to participate in this important training, each campus will have a delayed start on the date listed below.
Following the staff training, K–8 and KindiePrep students and staff will participate in a carefully coordinated, age-appropriate lockdown drill with guidance from DCSD Security. These drills help ensure our school community feels prepared, informed, and supported.
Delayed School Start Dates
Castle Pines: October 23, 2026
Lincoln Meadows: October 26, 2026
Motsenbocker: October 27, 2026
Grades K–8
- Carpool begins at 8:35 a.m.
- Classes begin at 9:05 a.m.
- All morning extracurricular activities, including Morning Club, will be canceled.
- All staff and parent meetings scheduled before 9:05 a.m. will be canceled. A staff member will contact you to reschedule.
- Lincoln Meadows: There will be no staggered carpool/start on this date.
KindiePrep (LM & MB)
- Morning KindiePrep ExtraCare (before-care) will be canceled.
- Doors open at 9:15 a.m.
- Classes begin at 9:30 a.m.
About the Lockdown Drill
With DCSD Security on site, students and staff will participate in an age-appropriate lockdown drill. The DCSD Security Team takes time to explain procedures, answer questions, and make the experience as reassuring as possible for students.
We know safety drills can affect students differently. Resources are available on our Student Support Services webpage to help families continue the conversation at home.
You know your child best, and we encourage you to talk with them before the drill and check in afterward, answering any questions in a way that feels appropriate for their age and needs.
Additional Safety Information
Information about school safety at American Academy is always available on our website.
In the event of an emergency, American Academy, DCSD, and local law enforcement work together using the Standard Response Protocol (SRP) so everyone knows how to respond.
If a safety protocol is ever enacted, families will be notified as quickly as possible, with follow-up communication provided as information becomes available. We encourage families to become familiar with the SRP and discuss it with their children in an age-appropriate way.
Student safety is always our highest priority. By working together with DCSD Security, local law enforcement, our staff, students, and families, we continue to strengthen the safety and preparedness of our school community.