How to Handle the Death of a Student, Faculty, or Staff Member

It's inevitable that a school administrator will have to deal with the death of a student, faculty, or staff member at some point during their career, and that each situation will be different in nature and scope. When that happens, there isn't much time to develop a plan or to research options for handling the often complicated situation. What do you do if the family makes a request to hold a service in the school and it has never been done before? How do you ensure that you are notified of the death early enough to adequately plan? What are some common guidelines for memorials, services, and involvement with the funeral director? What is the role of the administrator in each situation?

This booklet-style digital report is designed to give you simple guidelines that you can quickly refer to in times of need. It will provide:

(1) steps of action, lists of responsibilities for various staff members, a model policy, and a clear definition of what a school administrator should and shouldn't do.
(2) suggestions on how to be proactive with community services.
(3) information about dozens of other, important things.

In short, it will provide key information required to bring respect, closure, and comfort during the events surrounding that unfortunate passing.