Family Preparation Plan
At Southwestern, our students' safety and well‑being remain our highest priority. Most days go as planned, but unexpected circumstances can arise. A Family Preparation Plan helps your child know who to turn to and what steps will be taken if you cannot be immediately available due to illness, hospitalization, military deployment, arrest, deportation, natural disasters, or other emergencies.
Please note: Creating a Family Preparation Plan is not required and is entirely a family choice. Southwestern shares these resources to help families make informed decisions that work best for their unique circumstances. Southwestern does not provide legal advice. For legal questions, please consult an attorney.
How a Family Preparation Plan Helps
- Clarifies who can care for your child if you are temporarily or permanently unavailable.
- Ensures important medical, educational, and daily-care decisions can be made without delay.
- Reduces uncertainty and fear by involving your child in age‑appropriate conversations.
Tip: Talk openly with your child as you develop your plan. Involving them helps build understanding and security.
FORM: Designation of a Person in a Parental Relationship/Designación de una Persona en una Relación Paternal/Maternal (OCFS‑4940)
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- What it does: Authorizes a trusted adult to make educational and medical decisions for your child when you cannot.
- Not a guardianship: Does not create a legal guardianship or trigger a child welfare investigation.
- Duration: Temporary (typically up to one year) and renewable.