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EDUGUIDES • PATHWAY 1

1B — Crisis Communication Scripts

Safe wording you can use immediately when speaking with a principal, teacher or school leadership during a suspension incident.

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In stressful school incidents, families are often pressured into responding quickly, agreeing to inaccurate information, or providing statements before seeing any documents. These scripts protect you from escalation, miscommunication, and accidental self-incrimination.

All language is neutral, factual and policy-aligned. You can use these scripts over the phone, by email, or during an unplanned meeting.

✔ Script 1 — When the school calls about an incident

“Thanks for the call. I’m taking notes. I’ll wait for the written documents and review everything before discussing the incident. Could you please send the required information today?”

This prevents you from confirming details prematurely.

✔ Script 2 — When asked to pick up your child

“I’m happy to come to the school. Before I do, can you please confirm whether this is a formal suspension under Ministerial Order 1125?”

This protects your child from an illegal “informal” or “soft” suspension.

✔ Script 3 — When the school wants your ‘side’ immediately

“I’m not able to respond to any details until I’ve reviewed all written information. For now, I’m only taking notes.”

This prevents you from making statements that could be misinterpreted.

✔ Script 4 — When pressured to agree with their account

“I’ll wait to review the incident report and any supporting documents. I’m not confirming anything verbally.”

✔ Script 5 — When staff seem defensive or escalated

“I’d like to keep this conversation calm. I’ll wait for the written information and then we can discuss next steps.”

✔ Script 6 — When you need to request documents

Use this to stay neutral:

“Could you please email me the required incident information today, including the investigation notes and supports considered?”

Why These Scripts Work

  • They avoid escalation.
  • They prevent parents from being misquoted.
  • They keep communication legally safe.
  • They maintain a documented, written trail.
  • They remove emotional pressure from the moment.

Related Guides

Advocacy Toolkit

Templates to support clear, documented communication.

Rights Glossary

Plain-language guide to key legal and policy terms.

Ready for the next step?

The next guide explains what documents the school must provide on the same day of an incident or suspension.

Continue to 1C — What the School Must Provide Same Day →