On February 13, 2025, Lansing School District officials gathered for a comprehensive reunification tabletop exercise to enhance crisis response planning. Led by Kenney Massey of Greenbush’s SLS/CRISIS Consortium, the session brought together key district leaders, including the superintendent, school principals, emergency preparedness director, mental health team lead, and representatives from student services, transportation, technology, and facilities.
The goal of the exercise was to refine the district’s reunification strategy in the event of a critical emergency, ensuring the safety and well-being of students, staff, and families.
Enhancing Incident Response and Communication
A key focus of the exercise was effective communication. The district’s Director of Communications outlined initial messaging protocols, emphasizing the importance of working with local agencies and school districts to manage social media and media inquiries. Participants also discussed the importance of law enforcement, fire, and EMS coordination to maintain clear and accurate communication during emergencies.
Strengthening Security and Staff Preparedness
School security remains a top priority. The discussion reinforced the importance of locked classroom doors, citing past incidents where secured rooms prevented attackers from entering. Staff preparedness was another major topic, with the district identifying alternate role assignments for personnel who may also be parents of students during a crisis. Additionally, the integration of school nurses and food services into emergency planning was highlighted as essential.
Mental Health Support and Community Partnerships
Recognizing the lasting emotional impact of crises, the district reaffirmed its commitment to mental health support. Plans include stationing a dedicated crisis response team at reunification sites to assist students, staff, and families. The district is also strengthening partnerships with external mental health organizations, including Greenbush, to ensure continued support following an incident.
Next Steps: Drills and Continued Training
Moving forward, the district plans to conduct staff-only reunification drills to ensure smooth execution in real scenarios. These training sessions will provide hands-on experience with reunification procedures, communication strategies, and crisis response protocols. Additionally, the district will update emergency flowcharts and training materials to ensure new staff are well-prepared for any potential crisis.
Commitment to Safety and Preparedness
Lansing School District remains committed to the safety and security of its students and staff. While no crisis plan is ever perfect, the district’s proactive approach to crisis management ensures that it is prepared to respond swiftly and effectively. Through continued training and collaboration with community partners, Lansing is taking critical steps to keep schools safe and families informed.