Effective school safety relies on robust and adaptable reunification plans. To achieve this, the Reunification Foundation has developed a dynamic training methodology that builds on the traditional “Crawl, Walk, Run” model. This enhanced approach, known as “Crawl, Walk, Run, Refresh,” transforms the linear progression of skill development into a continuous cycle of improvement, ensuring sustained proficiency and adaptability in reunification procedures.
The traditional “Crawl, Walk, Run” methodology has been utilized across various fields to establish a progressive framework for training. It is a simple, easy-to-understand model. The “Crawl” phase introduces fundamental concepts and skills, laying the groundwork for future development. “Walk” involves applying those fundamentals in controlled scenarios, allowing participants to gain confidence and experience. Finally, “Run” simulates real-world situations, pushing participants to integrate their knowledge and skills under pressure.
While effective in building initial competence, the traditional linear model lacks a mechanism for sustained maintenance, growth, and adaptation. Skills can degrade over time, procedures may become outdated, new staff will be assigned to the team, and new challenges may emerge that require adjustments to the reunification plan.
To address these limitations, the Reunification Foundation has added the crucial “Refresh” phase, creating a cyclical process. The “Refresh” phase involves a systematic review of existing knowledge and skills, incorporating after-action reviews (AARs) and feedback from training exercises and real-world events to identify areas for improvement. This leads to the updating of procedures, refinement of techniques, and further training to maintain competency and ensure the reunification plan remains current and effective.,
This cyclical “Crawl, Walk, Run, Refresh” methodology offers several key advantages:
- Sustained Proficiency: Regular refreshers prevent skill degradation and ensure that the reunification team stays proficient over time.
- Adaptability: The methodology facilitates ongoing improvement and adjustment to new challenges, best practices, and lessons learned.
- Enhanced Preparedness: By prioritizing ongoing review and training, schools can maintain a high level of readiness and respond effectively to a wide range of emergencies.
- Culture of Improvement: The methodology promotes a proactive approach to reunification planning, encouraging organizations to actively seek opportunities to enhance their capabilities.
In conclusion, the “Crawl, Walk, Run, Refresh” methodology offers a practical and effective framework for developing and maintaining school reunification capabilities. By transforming the traditional linear model into a cyclical process, it ensures that schools are not only initially prepared but also remain ready to protect and reunite students and families in any situation.
