Leading Through Trauma: Strategies for School Leaders in Times of Tragedy

Session Submission Type: Alternative Session

Abstract

School leaders are often called upon to navigate their communities through times of crisis and tragedy. This presentation will provide individuals with an overview of the key strategies and concepts that school leaders need to understand when dealing with tragedy in a school setting. The improvement of practice within educational organizations can be enhanced through this session’s sharing of best practices gleaned from the Kentucky Center for School Safety and lived experience from a school administrator during a time of school tragedy. Through a chapter study and practical examples this presentation will explore multiple roles that school leaders must inhabit through various phases of a traumatic event, including crisis communication, emotional support, and community engagement. Participants will leave with a better understanding of the unique challenges that arise in times of crisis and practical strategies for leading through trauma in schools.

Sub Unit

• A – Administration, Organization, & Leadership

Individual Presentations

• Leading Through Trauma: Strategies for School Leaders in Times of Tragedy - Abbie Morris, murray state university; Stephanie D Sullivan, Murray State University; Patrica Greer, Kentucky Center for School Safety