Principal Group Released Updated School Safety Guide
New guidance helps school leaders manage the ongoing staff trauma following school shootings.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Administration
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The Principal Recovery Network has released an updated manual for school administrators navigating the aftermath of gun violence in schools. The new guide expands on previous resources to provide specific strategies for supporting staff mental health.
Why it matters
As school shootings increased to 19 incidents in 2026 from 18 in 2025, leaders face a growing need for established protocols to manage long-term staff trauma. This roadmap aims to help districts formalize support systems before crises occur.
The updated guide from the 19-member Principal Recovery Network builds on a 2022 framework. It outlines actionable steps for school leaders to address trauma and recovery efforts.
The players
Principal Recovery Network
A group of 19 current and former school leaders who provide peer support and crisis management resources.
Patricia Greer
The former principal of Marshall County High School who served during the 2018 shooting.
The details
The guide recommends that school leaders establish formal agreements with national school behavioral health organizations to ensure ready access to services. It also suggests that administrators proactively vet and organize counseling support through their districts to prepare for emergency response. These measures allow leaders to better account for the ongoing mental health needs of staff members following violent attacks.
Timeline
2018: School shootings occurred at Marshall County High School and in Parkland.
2019: The Principal Recovery Network convened for the first time for peer support.
2022: The original guide for school leaders was published.
2025: 18 school shootings were recorded throughout the year.
September 24, 2026: The updated guide was released at the annual meeting.
The Home Front
This manual marks a shift toward standardized administrative crisis responses following major school shootings. It follows the pattern set by recovery efforts after the 2018 tragedy at Marshall County High School.
Parents can review their local school district's public safety plans to see if they include provisions for mental health and staff support. Families should keep contact information for district-level counselors saved to help students navigate potential emotional distress.
The takeaway
School leadership teams are prioritizing staff mental health as part of a comprehensive crisis recovery plan. Parents can request information from their district about existing partnerships with behavioral health organizations to ensure support systems are in place.
Further reading
For more on how local schools prepare for emergency responses, read our guide on Administration.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Education Week.
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