Handle with Care for Schools

• When a child is exposed to violence or trauma, a law enforcement officer will contact the identified school personnel who will take the initial information.
• The school personnel will then ensure notification is provided to appropriate teacher(s).
• Teachers will observe the child’s behavior/academic performance and utilize trauma sensitive interventions as appropriate.
• If a child exhibits problems (emotional/behavioral/academic, etc.), the teacher will refer the child to the school counselor.
• The school counselor will assess the child’s needs to determine if counseling/services are needed and make a recommendation to the parent/guardian.
• The counselor or social worker will refer the caregiver/child for follow-up services as deemed appropriate.
• The school will attempt to obtain written consent from the parent/guardian for care providers and school staff to communicate about the best interest of the child.
• The school is encouraged to provide trauma sensitive training to ALL school employees within a year. A process will be developed to alert appropriate school staff of the child’s exposure to violence.
• The school will provide space for specialized trauma therapist as needed.
• The school will designate appropriate staff to attend the Handle with Care Core Team meetings.
• At least quarterly, key HWC stakeholders will review and evaluate HWC at Core Team meetings and any pertinent data in order to make recommendations for improvement as necessary.