👨‍🏫 As educators, we are responsible not just for the learning of our students but also for their safety and security. Sadly, we live in a world where emergencies such as natural disasters, pandemics, and violence are a reality. Therefore, it’s important to have a crisis communication plan in place. Here are some steps to help get you started.

Step 1: Identify Potential Crises

The first thing an institution should do is identify potential crises that might occur. Once they have been identified, you can begin to plan appropriate responses to each type of crisis.

💭 Think about the different types of emergencies that might happen. These could include natural disasters like earthquakes and floods, health crises like pandemics, and violent incidents like shootings.

Image of educators brainstorming potential crises

Step 2: Establish a Crisis Communication Team

The next step is to establish a crisis communication team that will be in charge of handling the situation when a crisis occurs. This team should include representatives from different departments within the institution.

👥 The team should consist of individuals who are trained to communicate effectively during a crisis. Make sure to include representatives from departments such as public relations, security, and administration, as well as local law enforcement or emergency management officials.

Image of a team meeting with members from different departments

Step 3: Develop a Communication Plan

Once a crisis communication team is established, it’s important to develop a communication plan. This plan should outline how the institution will communicate with students, families, and staff.

📝 The plan should include who will communicate what information, when they will do so, and through what channels. Communication channels may include text messages, email, social media, and phone calls.

Image of a communication plan document

Step 4: Establish Protocols

Having protocols in place can help ensure that everyone within an institution knows what to do during a crisis. Protocols can include evacuation procedures, lockdown procedures, and emergency medical procedures.

👉 Make sure to test these protocols regularly to ensure that they are effective and that everyone knows what to do. Regular testing will help identify any potential weaknesses in your plan and give your team the opportunity to improve it.

Image of a team conducting an emergency protocol drill

Step 5: Train Your Team

Another essential step in crisis communication planning is training your team. Make sure that everyone on the crisis communication team understands their roles and responsibilities and has the necessary training to handle a crisis situation.

🎓 Consider conducting regular training sessions for all members of the institution to ensure that everyone knows their role during a crisis situation.

Image of a team member training the rest of the team

Step 6: Review and Update Regularly

Finally, make sure to review and update your crisis communication plan regularly. Keep your plan up to date with the latest technologies and best practices for crisis communication planning.

✍️ Review your plan whenever changes occur within the institution such as new staff, enrollment increase, or any alteration in physical space.

Image of a team member updating the crisis communication plan

📝 In conclusion, having a crisis communication plan is essential in ensuring the safety and well-being of students, families, and staff members. By following these steps and regularly reviewing and updating your plan, your institution can be well-prepared to handle any crisis situation that may arise.

Image of a team posing with their successful crisis communication plan