New AAP Policies to Promote School Readiness
Disaster Planning for Schools
This statement is intended to stimulate awareness of the disaster-preparedness process in schools as a part of a global, community-wide preparedness plan. Pediatricians, other health care professionals, first responders, public health officials, the media, school nurses, school staff, and parents all need to be unified in their efforts to support schools in the prevention of, preparedness for, response to, and recovery from a disaster.

Medical Emergencies Occurring at Schools
The goal of this statement is to increase pediatricians' awareness of schools' roles in preparing for individual student emergencies and to provide recommendations for primary care and school physicians on how to assist and support school personnel.

Information for Teachers, Schools, and School Nurses
The American Academy of Pediatrics has identified a variety of resources to assist caregivers, teachers, and their colleagues in preparing for emergencies and disaster situations. (Click here to view a list of resources for early education and child care programs.)

US Department of Education, Readiness and Emergency Management for Schools Technical Assistance Center
This Web site offers a variety of resources to support disaster planning for schools, including:

	Helpful Hints for School Emergency Management – This colorful, easy to read 2 page handout aims to help schools prepare for disasters by creating "GO-KITS" that contain essential emergency supplies (2006).
	Office of Safe and Drug-free Schools resources on emergency planning (Practical Information on Crisis Planning Brochure and Practical Information on Crisis Planning: A Guide for Schools and Communities)

National Center for School Crisis and Bereavement
This Web site offers comprehensive resource materials and training/consultation services to support schools during and after times of crisis and loss. Key resources include:

	Psychological First Aid Brochure
	Guidelines for Responding to the Death of a Student or School Staff

National Association for School Nurses, Disaster Preparedness
This Web site includes the following resources:

	School Nurse Role in Bioterrorism Emergency Preparedness & Response (position statement)
	Disaster Preparedness: School Nurse Role (position statement)
	Disaster Preparedness Guidelines for School Nurses (resource manual)
	Disaster Preparedness for School Nurses (live continuing education program)

California Department of Education, Safe Schools, Crisis Preparedness Web Site
This Web site includes the Crisis Response Box Guide.

United States Government Accountability Office Resources
Visit this Web site to access the following key reports:

	Report to Congressional Requesters. Emergency Management: Most School Districts Have Developed Emergency Medical Plans but Would Benefit from Additional Federal Guidance
	Testimony Before the Committee on Homeland Security House of Representatives. Emergency Management: Status of School Districts' Preparedness