Emergency Preparedness and Response for Parents and Guardians

Before an emergency

• Be sure the school has the latest contact information for your child, including individuals authorized to pick-up your child. The school will not release students to unauthorized individuals.

• Talk to your child about what to expect during an emergency. Stress the importance of remaining calm and following the direction of school personnel. Instruct them not to use cell phones during an incident. Discuss plans for reunification, including to whom they may be released and how you will communicate.

During an emergency

• Do not go to the school unless requested to do so by the school. Doing so could hinder emergency response actions and place you or students at greater risk.

• Do not call the school. School personnel will not be able to answer phone calls, and you may tie up phone lines needed for communications by school and emergency personnel.

• Do not call or text your child. Doing so may place them at risk of harm and hinder response actions.
• Monitor information released by the school district. The district will provide updates and guidance for parents and guardians.
• If reunification is required, report to the reunification site and calmly follow instructions of school and emergency personnel. Have a state-issued photo identification and be prepared to wait patiently as we process the release of your child. We understand the safety of your child is your priority; it is ours as well.

After an emergency

• Talk to your child about what happened and observe for signs of trauma. Seek counseling or mental health assistance if needed.

• In an appropriate manner, share your thoughts about response procedures with school officials. Share what you believe were strengths and weaknesses in the response process.

• Assess your family’s emergency plans and adjust as needed.