What are the Teachers' Rights & Responsibilities in School Violence?
In cases of school violence, teachers and administrators are the first responders, and must be prepared for this role. They should understand their rights and duties before facing this situation.
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Obtain training
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Knowing what to do in a situation helps reduce fear and improve response. At a minimum, teachers should be trained in CPR, first aid, and crisis prevention and intervention. Other useful training for violent situations includes disaster management, crime prevention and the incident command system.
Know your district's disaster plan
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Teachers should understand this plan thoroughly, including evacuation routes and alternatives, relocation sites and procedures for disseminating children following the event.
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Maintain situational awareness
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Learn to recognize signs of potential violence. Reporting suspicious activity to school authorities and following threat assessment protocols will help teachers protect themselves and their students.
Maintain a climate of security and safety
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Many activities are available to help teachers enhance a safe climate. Educate students on appropriate behaviors. Allow them to voice their concerns, discuss steps being taken to keep students safe, and provide counseling services following a crisis incident.
Know teacher rights
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Most states protect teachers from liability during violent incidents, and many districts allow personal leave after a disaster, which is not deducted from sick leave. Teachers must investigate the policies applicable to their locale. Be sure that your actions during a crisis will be protected.
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