|
Schools cannot wait until hate-motivated incidents become a concern before developing a media-response plan. Having clear procedures
in place before an occurrence will help avoid ill-prepared confrontations with the media. Preparing Before an Incident
-
Confer with district-appointed media spokes-persons
to develop a clear strategy. Document the plan and keep it accessible. Maintain an accurate list of media addresses so the appointed spokesperson can send a news release quickly to control rumors and calm the community. Remember to include the ethnic press and radio and cable television stations.
-
Designate a capable, accessible individual
and a back-up contact at each school site to field media calls. Name these contacts in written school procedure papers in case legal action is taken later.
-
Know state laws and district policies as they relate to hate-motivated behavior.
-
Have appropriate staff members attend a media-awareness workshop
and in-service training on the district's media guidelines.
-
Form cooperative working relationships with press
before an incident occurs. Be sensitive to the media's reporting deadlines and balance them against the need to gather accurate information. When prepared ahead of time, the district, not the media, will be able to take charge of the interview.
-
Prepare a boilerplate statement and news release
ahead of time. Take time to construct responses to anticipated questions. Think through answers carefully; get legal advice when possible.
-
Link with other "zones of influence," such as schools, churches, and YMCAs, to
share ideas.
Responding After an Incident
-
Maintain a professional tone
and take the time to thank the media for their concern. do not become defensive.
-
Set up a press conference
if warranted. this allows the district to answer all questions at one time, ensuring uniform dissemination of information.
-
Assign a district team to protect the victim
and perpetrator from the media. Meet with the families and assist them in dealing with reporters.
-
Invite the media back to the school
at a later date to observe positive campus activities.
Examples of these activities are:
- Curriculum instruction and activities that teach students about the importance of accepting and appreciating diversity among people
- School wide presentations or programs that highlight cultural pluralism
- School and community partnership activities that promote the value and importance of all children
This is part of a publication of the Alameda County Office of Education. 1997.
To obtain an copy of the full Hate-Motivated Behavior in Schools:
Response Strategies for School Boards, Administrators, Law Enforcement, and Communities
contact the Alameda County Office of Education - 313 West Winton Avenue, Hayward, Ca 94544; (510)6704156; fax (510)670-4161 or the Sales Office at (800)995-4099 |
