Emergency Procedures

Crisis Communications Protocol for Staff

Crisis Communications Protocol for Staff

Crisis Communication Protocol

In case of any emergency at a school in Lawrence Public Schools, the process for contacting district support is to follow our crisis protocol for contact.

Lawrence Public Schools principals and administrators are very clear and well-practiced in this crisis communication process. We use this process successfully every day across our schools to ensure prompt awareness and direct, real-time support to school teams.

NOTE: These crisis contacts are to a designated crisis intervention group, not a call to an office number.

Everyone, as we do with all emergencies, should work directly with their administrator, OR in the case of a pressing emergency, utilize their Centegix system, or call 911 as appropriate.

Lawrence Board of Education Policy

EBBD - Evacuations and Emergencies

View Original Policy Document

If an emergency interferes with the normal conduct of school affairs, students may be dismissed from school only by the superintendent or the superintendent's designee. A plan for emergency dismissal of students during the school day shall be developed by the superintendent and approved by the board. A copy shall be filed with the clerk, and procedures for dismissal shall be given to parents and students at the beginning of each school year.

In an emergency when the safety of students and/or staff is better served by remaining at school, students will not be released, nor will school be dismissed early.

School-Closing Announcements

When the superintendent believes the safety of students is threatened by severe weather, health or safety concerns, or other circumstances, parents and students shall be notified of school closings or cancellations by announcements made over radio/TV station(s) and district communication tools.

Planning for Emergencies

Each building principal shall develop appropriate emergency procedures which shall be included in the district’s crisis plans. In the event of an emergency requiring evacuation, the principal shall follow the guidelines outlined in the district-approved crisis plan. As appropriate, portions of the crisis plan developed shall be held in strict confidence by staff members having direct responsibility for implementing the plan. Principals will be responsible for conducting emergency evacuation drills in accordance with Kansas State Fire Marshal guidelines.

Approved: August 26, 2024

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