Viennese schools in crisis mode: emergency plans updated after the killing spree!

Viennese schools in crisis mode: emergency plans updated after the killing spree!

After the shattering events at a school of Graz, where on Tuesday morning a killing spree requested at least eleven lives, including the alleged perpetrator, Austria has been transferred to deep grief. The police have now secured the situation and sees no further danger to the population. But the bewilderness, anger and grief can be felt across the country. On the occasion of this tragedy, the Republic of Austria decided to mourn for three days and many events in domestic politics, culture and sport were canceled or painted. While the nation mourns the victim, the Vienna Education Directorate sees the need to become active and has sent a letter to all Viennese school management.

In this letter, it is urgently pointed out that existing emergency plans for crisis situations must be reflected and sensitized. The decree "crisis situations in schools" regulates how such extreme situations should be dealt with. Examples such as the death of a member of the school community, serious accidents or threats and implementation of amocates are listed. The aim of this decree is to convey stability and bring structure to chaos.

structures for coping with crisis

Immediate measures that are to be taken in the event of a crisis event include the profit of an overview, alarm emergency services and the provisions of help. However, there is also emphasis on medium -term measures such as coaching by school quality managers, supervision for teachers and care for students and advice from parents. In the long term, preventive and organizational development measures are to be taken to learn from such events and to develop suitable coping strategies. The complete document is available at bi.bildbildung-wien.gv.at

But what should be considered in emergency situations like amo -runs? Scientific knowledge shows that such events are often caused by a combination of disappointments, humiliation and the pursuit of recognition. Against this background, it is all the more important that school management, teachers and students are properly prepared for violence incidents. School violence prevention notes that the unpredictability and threat of life and well-being in such situations require a quick reaction.

emergency plans in the law

In Germany, almost all federal states have introduced emergency plans for schools that exist as administrative regulations. These plans aim to give the responsible instructions on the hand and show them how they can request help in an emergency. Even if you cannot prevent gauge, you should alleviate the consequences. The Brandenburg educational authority emphasizes that the clarification of responsibilities and a structured procedure are decisive in order to be helpful in acute stressful situations.

In emergencies, the formation of crisis teams in schools is necessary to ensure the implementation of the emergency plans. In addition, an emergency folder should be provided with essential information in order to coordinate the processes in such exceptional situations. This also includes a regular practice of such scenarios to avoid misunderstandings and prepare the staff for an emergency.

The last events warn us all: A common procedure and constant exercise are essential to be prepared if the unimaginable occurs. It is now up to all of us to react sensitively to the signs and to take the necessary steps for the safety of our school environment.