Hello School Safety Leaders.
As many of you are experiencing firsthand, flooding events can be disruptive, stressful, and deeply challenging for school communities. We recognize the impact these conditions have on students, families, and staff—whether through unsafe travel routes, damaged facilities, or the uncertainty that comes with rapidly changing conditions. Our thoughts are with the districts currently navigating these impacts, and we appreciate the care and leadership you are providing during a difficult time.
As we continue to monitor the potential for significant flooding across our region, districts are encouraged to take proactive steps now to protect students, staff, and families and to reduce operational disruptions.
Key Actions for School Leaders:
Review your Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP) and be prepared to activate it if needed.
Confirm roles and responsibilities so essential functions can be implemented quickly.
Verify communication readiness, including alternate work sites, protection of vital records, and delegation-of-authority documentation.
Remember, the purpose of a COOP is to maintain or rapidly restore essential functions—ideally within 12 hours of activation—and sustain operations for up to 30 days, or until full operations resume. A Google folder with COOP resources, templates, and checklists are linked here.
This is also a good time to reflect on whether your current COOP would be effective in a flooding scenario. We will revisit this topic in February with a webinar focused on reviewing and operationalizing COOP plans.
Please review the linked COOP Flood checklist samples for additional safety measures based on your district’s ability to return to school buildings.
If your school has been affected by flooding—whether through access routes, flooded playgrounds, or building impacts—the Washington State Department of Health has developed guidance in the linked resource: School Environmental Health and Safety Impacts of Flooding.
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Student Well-Being Before and After Break |
As school leaders, the days before and after a school break are critical times to actively monitor student well-being. Disruptions in routine, increased isolation, and stress at home can surface as withdrawal, irritability, conflict, or concerning statements in conversation, writing, or online activity. Leaders should ensure staff are attentive to these patterns, know how to report concerns promptly, and are supported in making early referrals. Proactive check-ins, coordinated follow-up, and close collaboration with counselors, behavior teams, and SRO/SSOs help create safety, reduce escalation, and ensure students receive support during these high-risk transition periods. Leaders who would like to prepare further are encouraged to review and use the resources in the linked folder, which are designed to support planning and help identify what to look for during this important week before and after break. Linked : Safety Considerations before and after break
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Closing the 2025 School Year with an Emergency Operations Review ! |
Winter Safety Check-In for School Leaders
As we move into the winter season and approach upcoming breaks, this is a timely moment for school leaders to complete a brief safety check-in. Transitions in routines, weather conditions, and campus activity can introduce predictable risks if systems are not aligned.
Emergency Operations Plans (EOP):
Consider a quick review of key procedures such as evacuation, shelter-in-place, and reunification. Ensure staff know how and where to report safety concerns before and after break.
Threat Assessment Readiness:
Confirm threat assessment teams are available for last-minute concerns and that staff understand escalation pathways. Plan for follow-up with students returning from crisis or instability.
Drills & Compliance:
Mid-year is a good time to verify required drills are complete and schedule any make-ups. Reinforce trauma-informed, inclusive practices.
Winter Weather & Operations:
Review early-dismissal procedures, communication protocols, and coordination with transportation. Ensure walkways, entrances, and parking areas are monitored for winter hazards.
Events, Facilities & Security:
As seasonal events increase, reinforce visitor management expectations and assign safety roles. Coordinate with custodial teams on pre- and post-break building checks to ensure a safe return.
Small, intentional actions now help maintain safe, calm, and well-prepared school environments throughout the winter months.
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I would also appreciate it if you could update your school safety contact information by clicking on the following link: Linked : 25/26 School Safety Contact List
Thank you for your time and support!
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- ICS Classes (ICS 100, 200 & 700)
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Interrupting Hate Speech Learning Series |
NWESD is proud to partner with Dr. Monica Meadows to offer a dynamic learning series focused on interrupting hate speech and strengthening school climate. Through expert instruction, applied case studies, and hands-on practice, participants build the skills to respond consistently, lawfully, and compassionately—supporting student belonging, civil rights protections, and safe learning environments in an increasingly complex social and digital landscape. School leaders and staff are encouraged to register as partners or teams to move together through shared understanding, policy alignment, staff training, and meaningful implementation at the school and district level.
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School Reunification Preparedness Bootcamp |
Preparing for reunification after an emergency requires more than a written plan—it requires practice. This engaging, full-day training brings school leaders and safety teams together for hands-on ICS for Schools instruction, scenario-based tabletop exercises, and a guided reunification drill using the Standard Reunification Method. Participants will leave with practical tools, increased confidence, and a clearer path to operationalizing their reunification plans—register early to secure your spot and bring a team to maximize impact.
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Emergency Operations Planning Support | |
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@SchoolSafetyGov is the official account of School Safety.gov. Likes, links, reposts, followers & endorsements.
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| Erum Mohiuddin she/her
emohiuddin@nwesd.org
Comprehensive School Safety Coordinator
Northwest Educational Service District 189
360-299-4006
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