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A case study on how one school district navigated crisis response, mental health support, and community rebuilding after one of the most destructive wildfires in Colorado history.

In December 2021, the Marshall Fires devastated Boulder County, burning over 6,000 acres, destroying nearly 1,000 structures, and forcing the evacuation of more than 37,500 people. The impact on Boulder Valley School District (BVSD) was profound.

The district faced multiple challenges simultaneously:

• Ensuring student and staff safety
• Providing immediate support for displaced families
• Addressing trauma and grief among students and staff
• Maintaining educational continuity
• Balancing staff well-being with operational needs

BVSD's Comprehensive Approach to Crisis Management During a Natural Disaster

1. Establishing a Dedicated Trauma Response Team

Recognizing the growing need for mental health support following crises, BVSD created a specialized Trauma Response Team designed to provide immediate support to those impacted by tragedies.

Structure and Training:

• The district is divided into three networks, each with four specialized teams
• Each team includes mental health advocates, school counselors, school psychologists, school social workers, school nurses, and community liaisons
• All team members receive training in PREPaRE, an evidence-based trauma response curriculum developed by the National Association of School Psychologists

2. Immediate Crisis Response Strategies

When the Marshall Fires struck, BVSD implemented a three-pronged immediate response:

Communication and Safety Information:

The night of the Marshall Fires, we went from having a handful of homeless students to having more than 1,500.

• Activated communication systems including website and social media
• Provided real-time updates about the situation
• Created clear, consistent communication channels for families

Mental Health Support Mobilization:

• Quickly established counseling centers at the district office and 11 schools in affected areas
• Deployed trauma response teams to schools not directly affected
• Offered support for students processing fear and anxiety

Community Partner Coordination:

• Connected with Boulder County’s Office of Emergency Management
• Collaborated with local shelters and organizations like the American Red Cross
• Worked with Mental Health Partners (now Clinica Family Health and Wellness)

3. Supporting Students Through Grief and Trauma

BVSD recognized that addressing the emotional and psychological impact of disasters was essential for student recovery.

Multi-layered Support Framework:

• Immediate Counseling: Mobilized counselors and mental health professionals to meet with directly impacted students
• Safe Spaces: Created quiet, supportive areas within schools where students could retreat
• Peer Support Groups: Established trauma rooms and wellness centers where students could connect with others experiencing similar grief
• Family Support Services: Offered resources for parents on recognizing trauma signs and supporting family well-being

4. Balancing Academic Needs with Emotional Support

The district implemented a thoughtful approach to maintaining educational continuity while addressing emotional needs:

During a crisis, people need leadership more than ever. It takes extra energy, extra focus, extra care, extra attention to detail. As the leader, it is important to first mentally prepare yourself. When a crisis happens, steady yourself and get your team ready to respond.

Curriculum Adjustments:

• Modified academic demands to meet students’ emotional state
• Provided flexible transitions back to the classroom

SEL Integration:

• Incorporated Social-Emotional Learning into curriculum
• Focused on building resilience and emotional regulation skills

Gradual Re-entry:

• Implemented phased approach to returning to full academic tasks
• Offered flexibility for students most deeply affected

5. Leadership Principles and Strategies

Superintendent Rob Anderson emphasizes several critical aspects of crisis leadership.

Key leadership principles include:

• Communication and Empathy: Create a strategic cadence for information sharing and demonstrate genuine care
• Decision-Making: Develop clear plans and have the courage to stand behind difficult decisions
• Partnership Utilization: Reach out to trusted partners early and accept help
• Long-Term Vision: Recognize that recovery extends far beyond the immediate aftermath

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