Crisis Response Information
The primary purpose of the Volusia County Schools crisis response team is to prepare for and respond to a crisis with a goal of helping individuals and the school community to cope and begin the healing process after a tragedy. Research shows the value of effective preparation and response to a crisis. Dealing with a crisis effectively protects the emotional and physical well-being of individuals. Preparing for a crisis ensures an effective and well organized response to a school crisis. While there is no crisis response plan that will work best for all situations, the District Mental Health Team collaborates directly with school administrators and other district professionals to adapt services and supports to meet unique needs and the situation.
The District Mental Health Team consists of licensed mental health counselors, licensed marriage and family counselors, licensed social workers, and substance use professionals. This team is used when resources of the school-based mental health team (i.e. School Counselors, School Social Workers, or School Psychologists) are not sufficient to handle either the number of students impacted by a traumatic event or the magnitude of the trauma. Members of the crisis team will coordinate with the school to determine the best method(s) of support. In most cases schools will send a message to parents sharing that these team members will be made available to students and staff to assist students and staff in the grieving processes at school. School staff will also plan to assist parents in contacting the District Mental Health office if they feel that their child(ren) may be in need of additional assistance.
To effectively manage grief and/or trauma responses, following a death/crisis, Volusia County Schools utilizes the PREPaRE School Crisis Prevention and Intervention model developed by the National Association of School Psychologists. The model provides schools with guidance regarding best practices in the areas of crisis prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery. It focuses on addressing the emotional and mental health needs that an individual may require following a traumatic event. Since each crisis is different and should be treated with care and consideration regarding its unique circumstances, each school should incorporate the PREPaRE model with their individual safety and security plans when handling a crisis.
Helpful Links and Resources:
- National Association of School Psychologist – PREPaRE model
- SMA Healthcare 24/7 Mobile Crisis Response Team
- Florida Department of Health - Mental Health Links
- 988 Lifeline