This section provides information and links from multiple agencies to trainings not only directly connected to the online course, but also additional suggested trainings. Unless stated otherwise, all trainings are free for school districts, open-enrollment charter schools, and public junior colleges to attend. These trainings can enhance your skills and knowledge of school safety.
TxSSC
Emergency Communications Toolkit
2.0 Trainings
Trainings for Emergency Communications Annex Development
IS-29: Public Information Officer Awareness (FEMA)
This online course is designed to provide administrators and Public Information Officers (PIOs) basic information concerning the responsibilities and importance of this district position. Numerous relevant topics are covered including techniques to use in preparing for press conferences and being interviewed by the media.
IS-42: Social Media in Emergency Management (FEMA)
This online course is designed to provide districts with an understanding of social media tools and techniques, as well as the best practices, opportunities, and challenges of using social media during the fives phases of emergency management.
Additional Suggested Trainings
IS-242: Effective Communication (FEMA)
This online course is designed to help you improve your communication skills during an incident.
G-290: Basic Public Information Officer Course (TDEM)
The Basic Public Information Officer Course (G0290) is designed to provide participants with the opportunity to start applying basic concepts underlying the Public Information Officer (PIO) role. This course can provide a basic understanding of the PIO function for those new to the position.
G-291: Joint Information System/Center Planning for Tribal, State, and Local Public Information Officers (FEMA)
This course is designed for PIOs with experience in the field who will be working in a JIS/JIC. This is the third course in the Public Information Training Series. This course is delivered at the state, local, tribal, and territorial governments. Other courses are conducted as resident courses at the Emergency Management Institute (EMI). The courses build on each other enhancing students' skills further at each level.
E/L-105: Public Information Basics (FEMA)
To equip participants with the skills needed to be full or part-time PIOs, including oral and written communications; understanding and working with the media; and basic tools and techniques to perform effectively as a PIO, both in the proactive/ advocacy times and crisis/emergency response.
E-0388: Advanced Public Information Officer (FEMA)
A five-day, on site, course offered by the Emergency Management Institute to provide you the opportunity to apply advanced public information skills during an incident. There may be costs associated with this training, and there are many required and recommended prerequisites.
Master Public Information Officer Program (FEMA)
A three-course series that prepares PIOs for expanded roles in delivering public information and warning. Acceptance to this 1-year program is highly competitive. Strict assignment deadlines are enforced and a Master Public Information Officer original paper is required. There may be costs associated with this training.