One of the first steps psychologists can take toward making themselves indispensable in the schools is to actively participate in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of crisis intervention teams. Unless effective crisis intervention strategies are instituted, the educational process comes to a standstill. School psychologists need to play a key role at the district level in developing the very important policies and procedures that will assist schools with restoring equilibrium following a traumatic event and by being involved with the development and operation of district/school site crisis teams. Preparation for crises is a process, not an event. Information needs to be gathered from many sources, and then tailored to fit a particular community, district or school. However, there are a number of basics that need to be considered when developing crisis intervention or emergency plans. In districts that have inadequate or nonexistent plans, school psychologists can provide an invaluable service by proposing the establishment of a District Crisis Committee to develop a district plan for crisis intervention. Four functions and five considerations of a District Crisis Committee are examined. Eleven principles of psychological first aid and 10 suggestions for how parents can help their children following a crisis are provided. (JBJ)