SDLA Compliance Resource
Activate Instructional Continuity After an Emergency
Activate the instructional continuity plan promptly, establish two-way family communication and restore access to instruction using the correct two deadline clocks.
In Plain Language: Activate the instructional continuity plan promptly, establish two-way family communication and restore access to instruction using the correct two deadline clocks.
Why this matters
A one-way closure notice does not establish communication about pupil needs. Calendar days and instructional days produce different deadlines.
Primary ownership
Emergency operations and instructional leaders with student services, special education, technology, attendance and communications
Required distinctions and controls
- Within five calendar days following the emergency, the engagement protocol must establish two-way pupil/family communication and identify and support social-emotional, mental-health and academic needs.
- Within ten instructional days following the emergency, provide access to in-person or remote instruction. Both duties apply as soon as practicable; their outer limits are not waiting periods. Remote instruction must align with the independent-study provisions in EC 51747 and 51749.5.
- The ICP belongs in the Comprehensive School Safety Plan. For J-13A events on or after July 1, 2026, CDE requires the ICP and implementation certification, including an explanation of circumstances preventing implementation and what services were offered.
Recommended LEA workflow
- Open an event record with the emergency date, affected schools and the applicable instructional calendar.
- Assign separate five-calendar-day and ten-instructional-day targets and responsible staff.
- Use working communication channels and backups to contact families, log two-way exchanges, identify needs and follow up on nonresponse.
- Restore instructional access, address technology/accessibility barriers and coordinate special-education services and compliant remote study.
- Preserve event, outreach and instructional evidence and complete the applicable J-13A certification and supporting record.
Evidence to retain
- Emergency chronology and school calendar
- Two-way communication and needs-response record
- Instructional access start dates and service evidence
- Remote-study and student-support records
- Applicable J-13A certification and explanation
Official guidance and help
Return to the Annual Compliance Calendar
Reviewed October 21, 2026. Confirm the current agency instructions, applicable funding year, recipient scope, local policy and final submitted or approved state before acting. Recommended preparation steps support the named requirement and do not create an additional statewide filing deadline.