Instructions for assessing the situation.

Things usually go back to normal a few days after a death in a school.

It is sometimes destabilizing to revisit the event, since it generated so many difficult emotions.

However, not talking about the event, or acting as if nothing happened, will not allow you to properly handle the aftermath or consequences of the event. After the initial emotional period can come a longer period of mourning.

Here’s how to approach the topic:

• Email communication to teachers: “Nine weeks ago, we experienced what we feared most in our usually quiet daily life: the death of young Catherine. We implemented many interventions, and it is now time to discuss your experience during the event and what you may still be experiencing today. Please join us on (date and place) to discuss these matters. Although this meeting is not mandatory, your presence will be highly appreciated. Your Emergency Committee.”
• Teachers should have their students fill out a survey at a time chosen by the Emergency Committee. They could say something like “Today we are going to do a special activity. We will take a moment to complete a new survey related to Catherine’s death. It is important that you consider each question carefully. If you need support, please write your name. If you are not interested in answering, leave the questionnaire blank, but know that your answers are extremely important to us. The intention is to find out how you are doing now. Your feedback will help us better prepare should a similar event occur again. Thank you very much.”