Crisis Response Network

CRN services are designed to complement a school or district’s existing crisis response plans, personnel and resources. Support may include:

• Crisis consultation and response planning
• Incident leadership consultation
• Coordination of trained crisis responders
• School and district crisis team development
• Crisis communication and notification guidance
• Psychological education for students, staff and caregivers
• Support with identifying individuals and groups who may need additional assistance
• Individual and group crisis intervention
• Staff support and facilitated processing groups
• Guidance related to grief, loss, memorials and significant anniversaries
• Training and professional development
• Community resource coordination and referrals

The type and level of assistance provided are determined in consultation with school or district leadership based on the circumstances and identified needs.

Request information or consultation: 

CRN@ocde.us

949-706-4141

The Crisis Response Network is available 7-days a week between the hours of 6am-10pm to inform, address, respond, and/or consult districts on any crisis related needs. A CRN team member can be reached at 949-706-4141.

Professional Learning

CRN provides professional development designed to strengthen the ability of schools and districts to prepare for, manage and recover from crisis events. Training opportunities may be available for:

• School and district administrators
• Crisis response team members
• Incident leaders
• School-based mental health professionals
• Counselors, psychologists and social workers
• Campus safety personnel and supervisors
• Other professionals who support school crisis preparedness and recovery

Training topics may include crisis team development, incident leadership, grief and loss, psychological trauma, crisis intervention, communication, suicide postvention and recovery planning.

View current OCDE training opportunities HERE

The PREPaRE School Crisis Prevention and Intervention Training Curriculum was developed by the National Association of School Psychologists. It provides an evidence-informed framework for school safety and crisis preparedness, response and recovery.

CRN training emphasizes skills associated with PREPaRE Workshop 2, including:

• Understanding crisis responder roles and responsibilities
• Assessing the psychological impact of a crisis
• Identifying risk factors, warning signs and immediate needs
• Conducting psychological triage
• Providing developmentally appropriate crisis interventions
• Supporting short- and long-term recovery
• Evaluating the effectiveness of crisis response activities

The curriculum helps school professionals respond in a coordinated manner while promoting safety, stabilization, coping and resilience. Learn more from the National Association of School Psychologists.

Learn more about OCDE PREPaRE training: LINK HERE

CRN values strong partnerships with public agencies and community organizations that help Orange County communities navigate emergencies, traumatic events and recovery.

Orange County Sheriff’s Department — Coroner Division

The Orange County Sheriff’s Department Coroner Division conducts investigations of deaths that fall within the Coroner’s jurisdiction. Its responsibilities include determining the identity of the deceased and the cause, manner, date and time of death. CRN recognizes the importance of timley coordination among schools, districts and appropriate public agencies following a death that affects a school community.

Visit the Coroner Division website: LINK HERE

Trauma Intervention Program of Orange County

The Trauma Intervention Program of Orange County is a nonprofit organization whose trained volunteers provide immediate emotional and practical support to individuals affected by traumatic events. TIP volunteers are requested by law enforcement, fire and hospital personnel to assist survivors, families, witnesses and others during the immediate aftermath of a crisis.

CRN’s partnership with TIP helps strengthen the network of compassionate support available throughout Orange County.

Visit the Trauma Intervention Program of Orange County: LINK HERE

The following resources can help schools, families and community members learn more about crisis preparedness, grief, recovery and mental health support:

• CRN Brochure: LINK HERE
• Request CRN Consultation or Support: LINK HERE
• CRN Training Calendar: LINK HERE
• School Crisis Preparedness Resources: LINK HERE
• Grief and Loss Resources: LINK HERE
• Suicide Prevention and Postvention Resources: LINK HERE
• Resources for Parents and Caregivers: LINK HERE
• PREPaRE Training Curriculum: LINK HERE
• Orange County Community Mental Health Resources: LINK HERE

Crisis Response Network

Orange County Department of Education
Student Services and Programs
Mental Health and Wellness

CRN Coordinator
Jason Claros, LCSW, MS, PPS
JClaros@ocde.us

Program Support
Fatima Santiago: FSantiago@ocde.us 
Anicka Torres: AITorres@ocde.us 

Phone: (949) 706-4141
Email: CRN@ocde.us

General OCDE Information: (714) 966-4000

CRN assistance is coordinated with school or district leadership. Families and community members seeking support for a school-related concern are encouraged to begin by contacting their school or district.