Emergency Preparedness

Schools face a wide range of potential emergencies, including natural disasters, safety threats, public health events, and other disruptions that can impact students, staff, and learning environments. Being prepared before an incident occurs is one of the most effective ways to reduce harm and ensure a coordinated response.

The Emergency Preparedness program exists to help districts build clear, practical plans and develop the confidence to act when it matters most. Strong preparation supports student safety, protects staff, and helps schools return to learning as quickly and smoothly as possible following an incident.

This work also strengthens partnerships between schools and local response agencies, ensuring that emergency plans align with community systems and resources.

Who We Serve

• School districts across Siskiyou County
• School administrators and site leadership
• Teachers and school staff
• Students and families
• Local emergency response and community partners

What We Do

Emergency Planning Support

• Assist districts with developing, reviewing, and updating Comprehensive School Safety Plans
• Support alignment with state and local emergency planning requirements
• Provide guidance on site-level and district-wide preparedness practices

Training and Exercises

• Facilitate trainings on emergency response, preparedness, and crisis management
• Help districts build staff confidence and readiness
• Provide ALICE training to school staff

Coordination and Collaboration

• Coordinate with local law enforcement, fire, public health, and emergency management partners
• Support schools and districts during real-world events
• Assist with communication and coordination between schools and response agencies when needed

We Commonly Help When…

• A district is updating or creating a Comprehensive School Safety Plan
• Schools are preparing for drills 
• Administrators need guidance during or after an incident
• Districts want to strengthen coordination with local responders
• Schools are planning for large events or activities with safety considerations
• Schools are seeking specific emergency preparedness training

How Districts and Partners Engage With Us

Districts typically engage with Emergency Preparedness through planning consultations, training requests, exercise facilitation, and technical assistance. We work collaboratively with district leadership and community partners to tailor support based on school needs, risks, and resources.

What Success Looks Like

• Staff feel prepared and confident responding to incidents
• Strong coordination exists between schools and local responders
• Students and staff experience safer learning environments

Our Impact in Action 

Our impact is seen in schools that feel more prepared and confident when facing emergencies. Through planning, training, and collaboration, districts are better equipped to respond calmly, support their communities, and return to learning as safely and efficiently as possible.