Emergency Operations Plan – Standard Response Protocol & Reunification

An Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) had been previously referred to as an All-Hazards Plan, Crisis Plan, Safety Plan, and Safety & Security Plan. All terms pertain to an EOP which is a comprehensive plan for addressing prevention, preparedness, response and recovery to minimize the impact of a threat, hazard or incident on the safety and security of students, staff, and visitors. This also includes the effect on the school building(s) and property.

An Emergency Operations Plan is required by all accredited public and non-public schools. Unaccredited non-public schools should also have an EOP as a best practice. Under Rule 10 and Nebraska Revised State Statute the following is required from accredited schools related to an EOP:

• Each school system must have an EOP addressing the safety and security of students, staff, and visitors.
• EOP is required pursuant to rules and regulations of the NDE relating to accreditation.
• The EOP must be approved by the local governing body (school board).
• School system must have a safety and security committee with representatives of faculty, parents, and community partners.
• Safety & security committee must meet annually to prepare and/or review an EOP.
• EOP must be reviewed annually by one or more persons not on the local safety & security committee or an employee of the school district. The review should consist of the following:
  • A visit to the school facilities.
  • Analyze plans, policies, procedures, and practices.
  • Provide recommendations.
  • School head, safety committee, and governing body consider revisions and recommendations.
• School districts must provide the NDE Safety & Security Director with the EOP of the school district and any other security information requested by the director.

School Safety Committee’s or Teams can access guidance to prepare an EOP in NDE’s Canvas courses.