Family Preparation Plan

At Erie 2–Chautauqua–Cattaraugus BOCES (E2CCB), the safety and well‑being of our students remain our highest priority. While most days go as planned, 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. E2CCB shares these resources to support families in making informed decisions that work best for their unique circumstances. E2CCB does not provide legal advice. For legal questions, please consult an attorney.

• 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.

OCFS Designation of a Person in a Parental Relationship (OCFS‑4940)

• 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.

Designation of Standby Guardian – Surrogate’s Court

• What it does: Establishes temporary guardianship; parents do not lose parental rights.
• Filing: Requires filing a Petition for Appointment of Standby Guardian and a Designation of Standby Guardian with Surrogate’s Court.
• When effective: Petition should be filed and approved before the “triggering event” (e.g., administrative separation); guardianship takes effect when the triggering event occurs.
• Fees: A small filing fee applies.
• Documentation: You will need vital records (e.g., birth certificate).

Designation of a Standby Guardian – Family Court

• What it does: Establishes temporary guardianship; parents do not lose parental rights.
• Filing: File the petition with Family Court.
• When effective: Guardianship generally becomes effective upon the triggering event, after the petition is filed and approved.
• Fees: No filing fee.

New York State Power of Attorney (Short Form)

• What it does: Authorizes another person to manage property and financial matters (e.g., bank accounts, paying bills) that may support your child’s care.
• Combine with guardianship: Often used with a guardianship order to cover financial needs.
• Effective date: Takes effect upon signing unless otherwise specified—use care before any triggering event.