How to Create Reunification Plans for K-12 Schools

Effective reunification plans must consider the role of technology and communication as well as the emotional well-being of students, staff, and parents.
Published: May 29, 2024

One critical component of a K-12 emergency response plan is reunification. Reuniting K-12 students with their loved ones following a campus emergency is an extremely complex task and, if not done properly, can have a lasting traumatic impact on students, staff, and parents.

Kelly Martin, Lieutenant/Deputy Director of School Safety, Seminole County Sheriff’s Office/ Seminole County Public Schools, will present on the topic at the 2024 Campus Safety Conference.

At the national Campus Safety Conference, happening July 8-10 at the Omni Atlanta Hotel at Centennial Park in Atlanta, Ga., Kelly Martin, deputy director of school safety for Seminole County Public Schools and lieutenant for the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office, will present on the development and implementation of robust reunification plans.

This session will underscore the critical importance of reunification plans in the broader framework of emergency preparedness and response. By exploring real-world incidents and emergencies, attendees will gain valuable insights into the significance of having comprehensive and well-thought-out strategies in place to facilitate the safe and efficient reunification of students with their families during crisis situations.

The presentation goes beyond theoretical discussions, offering a comprehensive analysis of best practices in reunification planning. Drawing from case studies, participants will learn about the key components that contribute to the effectiveness of reunification strategies. From communication protocols and technological tools to collaborative approaches involving schools, families, and local communities, the session aims to equip attendees with practical knowledge that can be applied to their specific educational settings.

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The Role of Technology in K-12 Reunification Plans

An integral focus of the presentation is on the role of technology and communication in enhancing reunification efforts. Attendees will explore innovative tools and channels that streamline information dissemination, ensuring timely and accurate updates during emergencies. The session will also emphasize the importance of regular training exercises and drills to familiarize stakeholders with reunification procedures, fostering a culture of preparedness within school communities.

Furthermore, the presentation addresses the emotional well-being of students, staff, and parents during reunification and recovery processes. By acknowledging and addressing the emotional impact of emergencies, the session provides strategies to support the mental health and resilience of all individuals involved.

In conclusion, this presentation seeks to empower educators, safety professionals, and administrators with actionable insights to strengthen their school’s reunification plans. Attendees can expect to leave with a heightened understanding of the critical components of effective reunification, contributing to the overarching goal of creating safer, more resilient K-12 campuses.

What Else to Expect from the 2024 Campus Safety Conference

The Campus Safety Conference unites safety and security leaders for K-12 and higher education campuses to focus on intensive education, hands-on training, peer-to-peer networking, and product showcases over two-and-a-half days.

Now in its 11th year, CSC allows attendees to meet face-to-face with their peers and share lessons learned and promising practices. Our events are collaborative, innovative, and peer-driven, and offer resources and training needed to increase preparedness, communication, and response before, during, and after a variety of safety and security incidents.

Other topics to be covered at the conference include but are not limited to:

  • Lessons learned from recent campus protests
  • Expanding funding streams through security grants
  • Weapons prevention solutions
  • Accelerating emergency response times
  • The intersection of campus and municipal policing
  • The Clery Act
  • Redesigning the tabletop exercise
  • Media engagement strategies

We also have some exciting new add-ons for this year’s show, including:

  • Scholars Program: Designed for K-12 and higher education leaders who are actively sourcing products and solutions to improve the protection of their campuses. This program includes exclusive networking and tailored education, and qualified scholars will receive a comped full attendee pass as well as a one-night hotel stay.
  • Product Demonstrations: Taking place on the exterior show floor.
  • Grant Writing 1-on-1 Consultations: These 20-minute 1-on-1 consultations, led by the Grants Office LLC, are available with limited availability and require registration in advance.
  • Georgia Tech Tour: To conclude your Campus Safety Conference journey, join us for a tour of the prestigious Georgia Tech and the Georgia Tech Police Department campus! Chief Robert Connolly and his team will give a tour of the campus, focusing on access control, traffic flow, how technology keeps the campus running and more areas that keep Georgia Tech secure.

For more information or to register, visit www.campussafetyconference.com.

Strategy & Planning Series
Strategy & Planning Series
Strategy & Planning Series
Strategy & Planning Series
Strategy & Planning Series