Quick step by step basics to immediately support students in an evolving virtual and distance learning landscape
STEP 1: Assemble Resources, Consult Colleagues, and Develop Triage Action Plan
Start with defining your team. Discuss with district and site leadership teams what staff is available and how you will triage students for check-ins and remote support.
Some helpful questions to consider when you are discussing with your colleagues how to best structure remote support during this time:
- What students are highest risk for triage?
- What order should remote support proceed in?
- What individual is responsible for which subgroups/ or classrooms?
STEP 2 – Establish your roles
Team Leader: convenes group, sets meetings, determines caseload and student assignments for each individual, monitors follow-ups, consults and advises on district and site procedures and protocols.
Support People: assist with sourcing and supplying resources and background info for check-in including district protocols, existing work-plans, student information. As well as obtaining consent, scheduling check-ins, being available to assist in check-in and or follow up activities to promote learning
Meeting Facilitator: primary individual with rapport with student who will conduct check-in.
STEP 3 – Collaborate with your district and site administrators regarding how parents and students can access remote supports and resources (e.g. landline, virtual platform)
Compile resources to have available for students including hotlines, psychiatric mobile response team contact info, district support guidelines, community health partners, psychiatric referral agencies.
When your team is ready, discuss and determine your messaging to parents. This might be a helpful time to review the basics of SEL to ensure your team can effectively communicate the importance of promoting mental well-being, even in a virtual environment.
Script the call and practice with your colleagues to make sure your message conveys the proper tone and information to parents. This includes discussing your plans for implementing supports, such as remote check-ins.
STEP 4: Make the calls!
Reach out, document progress, and support students with resources and other intervention, per your plan, accordingly.
Have a resource you want to share with our national community of CoVitality champions? Taking the charge with SEL and student wellness support in your school or district? Or, just want to get in touch to chat about our shared passion to support the next generation’s flourishing wellbeing?
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