MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS PROTOCOL
Online Emotional Safety Monitoring
Teachers and staff must monitor for signs of emotional distress in online environments, including:
- Isolation or withdrawal
- Depression or anxiety indicators
- Visible distress on camera
- Concerning chat messages or disclosures
- Bullying concerns
- Indicators of unsafe home environments
Concerning signs trigger Student Support Team (SST) procedures and, if imminent risk is suspected, CRT involvement.
Suicide Risk / Self-Harm Response in Virtual Context
If a student expresses suicidal ideation, intent to self-harm, or severe emotional distress, staff must:
- Keep the student connected in the virtual meeting if possible while help is arranged
- Notify the CRT/administrator immediately
- Contact the parent/guardian promptly
- Contact local emergency services if urgent or imminent danger is suspected
- Document all actions taken
- Schedule SST follow-up and provide resources as appropriate
Confidentiality will be maintained except when disclosure is required to ensure safety or comply with law.
Identifying Distress in Remote Students
Staff are trained to recognize warning signs such as:
- Sudden changes in engagement or behavior
- Concerning written submissions
- Disclosures of harm or fear
- Visible physical signs of distress (when observable)
Upon identification, staff follow Student Support and Crisis Response procedures including documentation and referrals.
Mandatory Reporting (All Settings)
All staff are legally mandated reporters. Staff must report suspected:
- Abuse
- Neglect
- Sexual exploitation
- Threats of self-harm or violence
Reports must be made immediately in accordance with state law. Annual mandated reporter certification (including CP-MRC training as applicable) is required.