Littleton Public Schools Regulation

Policy Code    KDE/KDEA-R Policy Name    Crisis Management/Crisis Management Communications Adoption            May 10, 2001 Revised

During a crisis, the following communication plan will be used to notify the media and public:

1. Attempt to define the type and extent of the crisis as soon as possible.

2. Contact the Superintendent or designee to inform him or her of the current situation, emerging developments, and to receive clearance for statements to the media and the public.

3. Use the District Security Office as the crisis communications center to coordinate information gathering and dissemination.

4. Notify the Board of Education.

5. Develop a uniform, concise, clear, and consistent message.

6. Release information when facts are verified and the District’s position regarding the crisis is clear.

7. Inform employees of what is happening as soon as possible.

8. Instruct employees to refer all information and questions to the District Security Office.

9. Remind employees that only designated spokespersons are authorized to talk with news media.

10. Take initiative with news media and let them know what is or is not known about the situation.

11. Assign sufficient staff members to handle phones and seek additional information.

12. Keep a complete log of all incoming and outgoing calls and personal contacts.

13. Have key people relieved from their normal duties so they may focus on the crisis.