ABSTRACT
Development of a crisis plan is only part of what is needed for effective crisis response. Schools need to utilize the concepts, principles, and terminology consistent with the National Incident Management System and the Incident Command System (ICS). ICS can help to outline the role and functions of the School Crisis Team (SCT) and District Crisis Team (DCT). In some school emergencies additional support or response agencies need to be involved; therefore, the School Crisis Incident Command Structure must also link into the larger Unified Command System. The SCT and DCT are critical foundations to an effective crisis plan, and comprehensive preparedness efforts require that the SCT be organized, trained, and ready to respond in times of need. When city, county, or state response agencies are involved, or in an emergency with a community-wide response, the Unified Command will also include the Incident Commander established by those agencies.
