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July 5, 2023

It is time to update EOPs for the 2023-2024 School Year

Each year, all Emergency Operations Plans (EOP) for the previous school year expire and school districts across the nation are required to review their EOP to ensure it is up-to-date and in compliance with state regulations. Emergencies can occur anytime in an educational setting. This requires prompt and effective measures to protect everyone on campus. In such situations, schools with well-prepared and frequently reviewed EOPs can rapidly respond, prevent mishaps, and save lives.

Why are Updated Emergency Operations Plans Important? 

Enhanced Preparedness: An updated Emergency Operations Plan reflects the most current knowledge, best practices, and lessons learned from previous incidents. It allows organizations to incorporate new technologies, strategies, and resources that can enhance their preparedness and response capabilities. 

Compliance with Regulations and Standards: Each state has specific regulations and standards in place that require organizations to have updated Emergency Operations Plans. Staying compliant ensures that organizations meet legal requirements and avoid potential penalties or liabilities. 

Improved Coordination and Communication: An updated Emergency Operations Plan promotes effective coordination and communication among various stakeholders involved in emergency response. It outlines clear roles, responsibilities, and protocols, enabling different departments, agencies, and individuals to work together seamlessly during a crisis. 

Continuous Improvement: Regularly updating Emergency Operations Plans allows organizations to identify areas for improvement based on feedback, evaluations, and new information. It provides an opportunity to learn from previous incidents and incorporate lessons learned into future planning, leading to a more effective emergency management system. 

How nSide Can Help

As an nSide user, you can easily check to see if your school’s EOP is compliant or not or check in with our live chat. Our team of experts can generate a comprehensive report that compares your EOP against the state’s regulations, which enables you to identify areas that need improvement. This significantly reduces the time and effort required when updating your EOPs. If you need assistance with formatting your EOPs or are due for compliance monitoring in the upcoming 2023-2024 school year, we are here to guide you through,  every step of the way. You can rely on the nSide platform to provide a hassle-free and effective solution that ensures your school is in compliance with all the necessary regulations and your students and staff are safe. 

If you need help with your EOP updates or have questions about how to make the necessary changes, reach out to us!

Email us: help@nside.io

Call us: 1-800-604-1822

July 5, 2023
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The Effects of COVID-19 on Students Mental Health
May 10, 2022

The Effects of COVID-19 on Students’ Mental Health

For the last two years, nearly everyone has somehow been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. School-aged children are no exception. Studies have shown that mental health struggles brought on by the pandemic appear to be the most common affliction for them. 

LET’S DIVE INTO THE NUMBERS 

The American Psychological Association conducted a study of 107 high school students to assess the extent of any mental health struggles they may have experienced. This survey concluded that students of various ethnicities and socioeconomic backgrounds reported they had experienced some degradation in their mental health.

  • 77.4% of White students
  • 53.6% of Asian students
  • 50% of Black students

This data makes it clear that the impact of the pandemic has been far-reaching and unpredictable. 

WHAT ARE PARENTS NOTICING? 

In April 2022, NPR and Ipsos asked parents if they had seen symptoms of mental illness or other behavior changes in their child(ren). Parents reported they had seen an increase in anxiety, depression, learning disabilities, and attention disorders in their children.  

  • Increase in Anxiety: 19% 
  • Increase in Depression: 12% 
  • Increase in ADHD: 9% 
  • Increase in Another mental or emotional health issue: 6% 
  • Increase in A learning disability: 5% 

With the increase in symptoms parents are seeing, 73% of parents admitted that their child would benefit from mental health counseling and 78% believe social and emotional wellness programs are beneficial. 

WHAT SHOULD EDUCATORS BE LOOKING FOR? 

While specific mental health issues can present in various ways, many symptoms can overlay. Consult with a school counselor, nurse, or administrator and the student’s parents if you observe one or more of the following behaviors:

  • Feeling very sad or withdrawn for more than two weeks
  • Intense worries or fears that get in the way of daily activities
  • Extreme difficulty concentrating or staying still that puts the student in physical danger or causes problems in the classroom
  • Severe mood swings that cause problems in relationships
  • Drastic changes in the student’s behavior or personality

WHAT CAN SCHOOLS DO TO HELP? 

Educators can often be the first people to notice the signs of mental health issues. It is important that schools find ways to support the mental health of all students, not just individual students who may exhibit behavioral issues. In March 2022, the Department of Health and Human Services shared a list of School-Based Mental Health Services resources that included everything from early care to emergency response.  

By making a few changes and bringing awareness to teachers, staff, and administrators schools can create a space that cares for the emotional well-being of students that extends beyond the classroom. Here are a few things you can do to make that happen:

  • Educate staff, parents, and students on symptoms of and options for help with mental health problems
  • Teach and reinforce positive behaviors and decision-making
  • Promote social and emotional competency and build resilience
  • Help ensure access to school-based mental health supports 
  • Recognize when young people are at risk for or are experiencing mental health problems
  • Identify how to intervene early and appropriately when there are problems

It is evident that COVID-19 has had extensive impacts on so many of our lives. The upheaval of the academic structure has been difficult for kids, and as teachers and students return to the classroom, it is vital that awareness of these mental health issues and the indicating behaviors are at the forefront.

May 10, 2022
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