Emergency Operations Planning

SCESD, through the Oregon Department of Education (ODE) has received a federal grant (GSEM) to provide training and technical assistance to school districts on the development and implementation of school emergency operations plans (EOPs). The primary objective of the work is to help schools better prepare for various natural and human-caused disasters and emergencies (earthquakes, fires, tsunamis, acts of mass violence, etc.).

In accordance with Oregon Revised Statute 336.071 and Oregon Administrative Rule 581-022-2225, all schools are required to instruct and drill students on emergency procedures and maintain a comprehensive safety program for all employees and students that includes plans for responding to emergency situations.

Our Project Manager for EOP implementation is Terry Plotz. Terry has been involved with emergency response since high school. His history includes: first responder, first-aid/CPR instructor, police chaplain, CISM responder, CERT trainer and other experiences. He is also familiar with schools as an instructor, coach, and school board member.

Terry Plotz
Project Manager
541-266-3903

The SCESD is responsible for helping its own districts as well as schools in Douglas ESD and Southern ESD. Over the course of the next three years, ODE and the partnering ESDs will be offering training and assistance to all schools and districts that need or want it.

  1. Districts will have the opportunity to attend training to support best practices and processes for developing and implementing school EOPs including utilization of the “Guide for Developing High-Quality School Emergency Operations Plans.”
  2. Following the training, SCESD, through in-person or virtual supports, will assist districts in evaluating their current situation and help them develop a 1-3 year EOP completion plan with actionable and manageable pieces.
  3. Supplemental training will also be available to support districts in implementing their EOP:
    • Developing or enhancing memoranda of understanding with community partners (e.g., local government, law enforcement, public safety or emergency management, public health, and mental health agencies)
    • Supporting the Implementation of the National Incident Management System (NIMS) in their district.
    • Addressing access and functional needs in the development and implementation of school EOPS.
    • Utilizing drills and exercises to reinforce EOP performance required in an emergency.
    • Site assessments: Taking a good look around.

Currently, one-time (while supplies last) EOP development grants of $1000 to $3000 are available to assist districts with substitutes, staff travel or stipends to develop an EOP. To receive the grant each district will develop a simple plan with the Program Manager to meet agreed upon deliverables toward completion of an EOP for their district. This plan will include a review of current plans, situational assessments, training and exercise calendars and the development of Functional and Threat/Hazard annexes that pertain to their district. Most districts are committing to quarterly meetings to complete these plans.