CRISIS RESPONSE PLAN: INFO FOR FAMILIES

During the 2021-2022 school year, RCS mental health team finalized a crisis response plan that addressed crisis situations in school. A crisis is defined as a situation in which an individual is expeirencing emotional distress that poses a risk of harm to themselves or others. This plan is aligned to state legislature, mental health best practices, and District policy and procedures.

To increase understanding between school personnel and families, the following is a comprehensive guide to understanding the process of action in the event of a crisis event at school.

Risk of harm to self:

Risk of harm to self is identified when a student expresses a desire to harm themselves. When this information is identified, the student is evaluated by the school social worker or other licensed mental health professional in the building. This process is implemented to identify the risk and severity of the concern at hand. Parent(s)/guardian(s) are contacted to alert them to the concern. If the student is deemed to be at an increased risk, it may be recommended that the student receive an additional evaluation at a local mental health facility. If a student is a moderate to imminent risk of self-harm, there are legal obligations to ensure the student receives the appropriate attention to this matter. Just as we would not leave a child with a broken bone to carry on with their day to day activities without care; we extend the same care and concern for medical attention to those experiencing a mental health crisis.

Regardless of the 'level of risk', parent(s)/guardian(s) are contacted for all minor children who are identified as having any self harm ideations or actions.

Risk of harm to others:

Risk of harm to others is identified when a student expresses, directly or indirectly, an idea, plan, or intent to cause harm to others. Like with harm to self concerns, a licensed mental health professional addresses the concern with the student to assess the level of risk associated with the matter. A team of trained professionals will approach the situation based on the facts at hand and proceed to ensure safety for all parties involved. Parent(s)/guardian(s) are contacted and made aware of the situation. School staff may recommend the student seek additional evaluation and observation. Upon the student's return to school, school staff will meet with parent(s)/guardian(s), the student, and any other involved professionals to develop a support plan that ensures necessary resources are in place.

Regardless of the 'level of risk', parent(s)/guardian(s) are contacted for all minor children who are identified as having any ideations or actions related to 'harm to others'.

In any scenario, the safety and well being of students is the number one priority. The same practices and approaches are taken with all students exhibiting concerns associated with risk of harm to self or others. Together, we can ensure safe and supportive learning environments where students thrive. It is through partnership in these matters that we can support students experiencing distress.