Resources for District Crisis Response Coordinators

"In time of crisis, people want to know that you care, more than they care what you know."

Will Rogers

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Gather your team and verify facts.
Make initial notifications (bus driver, teachers, close friends - anticipate those most highly impacted). Attempt to contact the family to offer condolences and determine their wishes. (To avoid unnecessary anxiety, the name of the deceased, once confirmed by authorities, can be released in announcement.)
Schedule in-person staff meeting prior to school if at all possible.
Distribute announcement (to be read in small, naturally occurring groups by a familiar person, avoid assemblies or using PA)
Distribute fact sheet and/or potential questions with sample responses for teachers. Plan to address rumors.
Arrange for crisis response room for students and separate room for adults.
Plan for "empty desk" and potential pop-up memorials. Arrange for someone to follow student schedule.
Schedule end-of-day staff meeting to debrief.
Keep as normal a schedule as possible. Avoid cancelations or closures. Return students to normal activities as soon as healthy.
Anticipate for and provide follow-up care as needed.

Resources