Protocols and Tools
The San Mateo County Coalition for Safe Schools and Communities supports schools in creating safe, healthy, and supportive learning environments for all students.
Our suite of protocols and tools equips school communities with the guidance, best practices, and resources needed to respond effectively to a wide range of safety and wellness challenges. These tools are developed in collaboration with local education agencies, health and safety professionals, and community partners to ensure they are comprehensive, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive.
Explore some of our key resources.
Safe Schools Respiratory Illness Framework
This framework provides school administrators and staff with a clear, tiered approach to responding to respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19, flu, and RSV. It includes prevention strategies, outbreak response protocols, and communication templates aligned with state and county public health guidance. The framework supports schools in minimizing disruptions to learning while protecting the health of students, staff, and families.
Student Sexual Assault Response Toolkit
Designed for use by school staff and administrators, this toolkit outlines protocols for responding to student disclosures or reports of sexual assault—whether incidents occur on or off campus. The toolkit emphasizes trauma-informed practices, compliance with Title IX and state law, and coordination with law enforcement and victim support agencies. It also includes sample procedures, notification templates, and staff training resources.
CSEC (Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children) Toolkit
This toolkit helps educators and school personnel identify, support, and protect students who may be at risk of or experiencing commercial sexual exploitation. It includes early warning signs, response protocols, referral pathways, and resources for trauma-informed care. Developed in partnership with youth-serving agencies, this toolkit ensures school communities are equipped to respond with compassion and urgency.
Naloxone for Schools Toolkit
In response to the growing opioid crisis, the Naloxone for Schools Toolkit provides step-by-step guidance for schools to obtain, store, and administer naloxone (Narcan)—a life-saving medication that reverses opioid overdoses. The toolkit includes information on staff training, liability protections, policy templates, and partnerships with local health agencies. It empowers schools to be prepared and proactive in keeping students safe.