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Standardized Response Terminology

Standardized Response Terminology

Standardized Response Terminology (Scroll down for resources)

The requirement for standardized response terminology in K–12 schools was established by the Michigan Legislature through an amendment to the Revised School Code (1976 PA 451):

  • Public Act 271 of 2024 added Section 380.1308c to the School Code, directing the Department of State Police—working with the School Safety and Mental Health Commission—to develop and promulgate standardized response terminology (including a color‑coding system) for use in both public and nonpublic schools in certain situations.
  • Additionally, Public Act 270 of 2024 added Section 380.1308d, mandating that, beginning with the 2026–2027 school year, the governing bodies of public and nonpublic schools must adopt and implement the terminology previously defined in Section 1308c.
  • Currently, the proposed rules are under review by the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules (JCAR). The expected date of September 15, 2026, for the rules supporting the Standard Response Terminology to become final was not met due to fewer than anticipated legislative session days. When the required number of session days have been met, the rules will be promptly filed with the Office of the Secretary of State and will go into effect. If the required number of session days is not met this year and the Michigan Office of Administrative Hearings and Rules does not grant a waiver, the rules will be resubmitted to the Legislature after January 1, 2027, and the 15 session days will start over. The OSS will continue to provide notifications on this website.
     

Public Act Summary of Approval Flow

Step Responsible Party Role
1 Executive Agency Drafts rule, conducts hearings
2 Michigan Office of Administrative Hearings and Rules Reviews and certifies compliance
3 Public Provides input via hearings
4 Joint Committee on Administrative Rules Reviews; may object or request changes
5 Secretary of State Files and publishes the final rule

> View the proposed rules

 

 

Old School Building outside with flag on top of building
Old School Building outside with flag on top of building

Michigan Standardized Response Terminology

Beginning with the 2026-27 school year, the following terminology must be utilized by public schools, nonpublic schools, and local law enforcement agencies in response to certain situations that occur in or at a school building operated by the public school or nonpublic school.

Review the Terms. Train Your Team. Be Ready.

Standardized Response Terminology Resources

This video introduces Standardized Response Terminology (SRT) though the voices of Michigan students, highlighting how clear, consistent safety language helps everyone prepare during emergencies. Students share what each SRT action means, why it matters and how using common terminology supports safer, more confident school communities.

Standardized Response Terminology Video from the Office of School Safety

This video introduces Standardized Response Terminology (SRT) though the voices of Michigan students, highlighting how clear, consistent safety language helps everyone prepare during emergencies. Students share what each SRT action means, why it matters and how using common terminology supports safer, more confident school communities.

Resources

  • The Standardized Response Terminology presentation slides offer a concise summary of the standardized response terms using definitions and examples. It is designed to supplement staff training and foster confidence in applying the terms. (Note: When opening the PowerPoint, select 'Read Only' to access the slides). 
  • The Standardized Response Terminology (SRT) FAQ provides clear, straightforward answers to common questions about SRT. It explains what SRT is, why it is important, and how consistent language supports safer responses to situations. 
  • A one-page reference document featuring the SRT symbols along with the legislated standardized safety terminology used in Michigan schools. 

SRT ID Card Template

The SRT ID Card template provides a quick, easy reference to the five SRT actions with simple images, actions, and reminders.

SRT ID Template