Each type of crisis can be unique and present its own challenges. These are the most common crises schools face.
- Natural disasters. Natural disasters like floods or earthquakes and wildfires may cause damage to schools. They can also disrupt education. The mental health and wellbeing of both students and teachers can be affected by such crises.
- Health emergencies. Health emergencies, such as pandemics or outbreaks of infectious disease can be dangerous to students and employees. In these situations, school may have to implement measures like closing for a short time, remote learning or infection control.
- Violence or threats: School crises may include incidents of bullying or harassment or even physical assaults. Students and staff can be traumatized by such crises.
- Student and Staff Accidents: Injuries and trauma can be caused by accidents involving staff or students, including car accidents, sports injuries, and falls.
- Events outside of school: Outside of schools, incidents such as violence in the local community, terrorist attacks or natural catastrophes may also impact the education process. When such a crisis occurs, the school may have to take security measures and provide counselling and support to both students and employees.
It’s important for schools to have crisis management plans in place that address each type of crisis and provide a framework for responding effectively to emergencies. The plans should be developed in collaboration with emergency services, community partners, and mental health specialists to provide a coordinated, effective response.