ABSTRACT
Most schools are proactive about creating crisis plans. Unforeseen events, like natural disasters and inclement weather, warrant clear processes to keep students and faculty safe. Some crises require leaders to adeptly navigate situations the school may be unprepared to handle. A school leader is the face of the organization and thus is uniquely positioned to provide the community with a sense of calm in the midst of a crisis. A crisis requires a school leader who conveys competence, can engender trust, and promotes a clear path forward for the organization. A school leader is always expected to understand their school and community landscape, but this takes on critical importance in responding to a crisis. Most schools are proactive about creating crisis plans. The leader’s role on the crisis management team should not be to dictate the solution but rather to ensure the team works collaboratively and follows a disciplined, learning-oriented process.
