A structured, multi-level response is critical for addressing crisis events effectively.
Levels of Response: The “Determining Level of Response Needed.pdf” document outlines three levels of response:
Minimal Response: For isolated incidents impacting a few individuals, handled by existing staff.
Building-Level Response: For incidents impacting a few individuals or school-wide but not overly traumatic, handled by the Building Crisis/Safety Team.
District-Level Response: For widespread impact affecting the majority of staff and students, requiring support from non-building personnel and the district response team.
Community-Level Response: When multiple buildings or the entire district are broadly impacted, necessitating support from external networks like the Lane Tragedy Response Network.
Psychological First Aid (PFA): An evidence-informed approach to help individuals in the immediate aftermath of trauma. Key factors adapted from PFA include practical assistance, connection with social supports, and psychological triage. (“After-a-School-Tragedy_FINAL040219_0.pdf”, “NASP_PREPaRE_GoKit.pdf”)
General Response Strategies
Maintain routine: “Maintain a normal routine in your classroom and engage students in activities they previously enjoyed.” (“Addressing_Grief_Tips_for_Teachers_and_Administrators.pdf”)
Encourage expression: “Provide the opportunity to talk and ask questions and use these questions to guide further discussion. Encourage students to share feelings, but in ways that are not disruptive to the class or hurtful to other students.” (“Addressing_Grief_Tips_for_Teachers_and_Administrators.pdf”)
Provide practical assistance: Offer help with immediate needs, problem-solving, and creating short-term plans to foster a sense of empowerment. (“After-a-School-Tragedy_FINAL040219_0.pdf”)
Connect with social supports: Help students connect with family, friends, and trusted school personnel. (“After-a-School-Tragedy_FINAL040219_0.pdf”)
Normalize reactions: Prepare students for crisis reactions by normalizing most responses and identifying pathological ones for referral. (“NASP_PREPaRE_GoKit.pdf”)
Offer comfort and practical guidance: Provide emotional assistance and practical guidance. (“NASP_PREPaRE_GoKit.pdf”)
Help with coping: Provide information and strategies for coping with distressing emotions like guilt and shame. (“InterventionSuggestions.pdf”)
Model support: Use reflective, clarifying, and empowering comments. (“After-a-School-Tragedy_FINAL040219_0.pdf”)