A Peer-Led Journey to Building a Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP)
Instructor: Riley Williams
This course is designed for K–12 administrators and staff to strengthen school resilience during disruptions such as natural disasters, cyberattacks, and pandemics. Using Circles’ peer-based model, participants collaborate to create a role-specific Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP) section. Throughout the experience, they also build leadership and crisis response skills through scenario-based activities and shared reflection.
Course information
For school leaders and teachers
Duration: 12 hours
4 sessions
Live peer-to-peer learning
The methodology
Teachers will learn in small groups of 2-5 colleagues, meeting once a week for 4 weeks. Sessions are 1.5 hours and can be in-person or online.
Course syllabus
Session 1: Why Continuity Matters – Grounding in Purpose
- • Understand the purpose and importance of a Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP)
- • Identify gaps in existing emergency plans using the REMS framework
- • Reflect on personal leadership goals for responding to school disruptions
Session 2: What We Must Protect – Essential Functions & Risk
- • Define and prioritize essential school functions using a REMS-aligned approach
- • Analyze the impact of service disruptions on vulnerable student populations
- • Track personal growth in confidence around continuity leadership
Session 3: Making the Plan Real – COOP Frameworks in Action
- • Learn key components of COOPs, including succession, communication, and alternate delivery
- • Begin drafting a personalized COOP section with peer support
- • Shift mindsets around planning through collaborative reflection
The methodology
Teachers will learn in small groups of 2-5 colleagues, meeting once a week for 4 weeks. Sessions are 1.5 hours and can be in-person or online.
For school leaders and teachers
Duration: 12 hours
4 sessions
Live peer-to-peer learning