Crisis Response Information
The primary purpose of the Volusia County Schools crisis response team is to prepare for and respond to a crisis with a goal of helping individuals and the school community to cope and begin the healing process after a tragedy. The District Mental Health Team consists of licensed and registered mental health/marriage and family counselors, social workers, and addictions professionals.
To effectively manage grief and/or trauma responses, following a death/crisis, Volusia County Schools utilizes the PREPaRE School Crisis Prevention and Intervention model developed by the National Association of School Psychologists. The model provides schools with guidance regarding best practices in the areas of crisis prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery. It focuses on addressing the emotional and mental health needs that an individual may require following a traumatic event. Since each crisis is different and should be treated with care and consideration regarding its unique circumstances, each school should incorporate the PREPaRE model with their individual safety and security plans when handling a crisis.