Calming the Storm: Natural Disasters, Crisis Management, and School Leadership

Abstract

Natural disasters can negatively impact students’ educational outcomes and well-being. After a natural disaster, families and communities often rely on schools to foster stability and serve as a conduit to resources. Yet, school principals face many challenges, often with little guidance, in how to best respond to natural disasters. This case demonstrates that, in the aftermath of a natural disaster, educational leaders may be required to communicate effectively with staff and media; make operational, managerial, and logistical decisions quickly and under immense pressure; efficiently assess families’ needs; manage the outpouring of philanthropy; and integrate parent and community voice in governance.