Safety & Wellness Segment

Annual Review of Response Protocols for Budget Planning

Submitted by Barbara Grimm, Founder and President of School Responder, and C.J. Huff, Ed.D.

An annual evaluation of your school’s response protocols not only helps ensure you are prepared for emergencies but also allows you to plan effectively for the next year’s budget. By timing the evaluation in alignment with your budget cycle, you ensure that any necessary updates or investments—whether in training, technology, or materials—can be included in the upcoming fiscal plan. The following are key areas for review:

1. Crisis and Communication Protocols: Are all staff trained in the latest protocols for emergencies and mental health crises? Consider whether refresher courses or new training sessions might be needed, especially with staff turnover.

2. Mental Health and Wellness Support: Evaluate tools and resources available for mental health support, both for students and staff. Updating software or adding new wellness check-in systems can be budgeted to enhance the overall school climate.

3. Technology and Tools: For schools using response tools, it is important to assess the effectiveness of these systems. Are they providing real-time insights? If new features or updates are available, factor in potential costs for upgrading.

4. Budget Request Processes: Do you have a system in place that encourages, supports, and prioritizes budget requests related to safety and security concerns? Consider making safety and security a priority in the budget process by weighting those requests more heavily than other budget requests. Keeping detailed notes from your evaluation process is crucial. Document any unmet needs or challenges encountered, as these insights will guide decisions in allocating resources and planning professional development. This documentation can also support grant applications or other funding opportunities for specific needs, such as mental health initiatives or technology upgrades.