Developing School Policy

Developing School Policy

Choose a potential school crisis or problem. Research approaches and strategies for responding to such a crisis or problem in a school. For example, search the literature, inquire with schools about policies that may exist, review local, state, or federal related policy, and/or identify a situation/crisis reported in the media and use that for as an example of what to do and what not to do. Describe the important aspects and concerns in such a situation. Finish with a draft of a comprehensive policy focused on the school social work aspect of an effective response in such a situation that outlines a step-by-step response at the school and/or individual student level. School problems/crises that would be appropriate include: student suicide or suicide risk, suspected abuse or neglect, bullying, school shooting, school refusal/phobia, drug use/dealing, aggressive/violent student behavior, etc. Outline/Format of Paper:

1. Identify the Problem:

2. Describe the Problem: (Why is it a problem? How does it impact students/schools? How big is the problem? Provide evidence to support your statements.)

3. Background Information: (What policies and strategies currently exist to address this problem? What do research and/or experience tell us about what does and does not work in addressing this problem? Provide evidence to support your statements/conclusions.)

4. Important Aspects/Concerns to Consider: (What potential solutions/policies that must be considered to address this problem?)

5. Comprehensive Policy: (Step by step description of a response to this problem at the school and/or individual level. Envision this as a formal policy page within a school/district policy manual.)

Set each one as a header apa formate