Positive Environments, Network of Trainers
Diagnostic Center, South
State Special Schools
Threat Assessment
It is essential that no one person conduct this inquiry alone. Rather, this is a team process under the leadership of the site leader, with various staff playing different roles in the process. Threat assessment is NOT risk assessment. Threat evaluates whether this is a substantive threat and what issues must be addressed. Often a threat is a "tip of the iceberg" on the variables affecting this student's behavior.
Bear in mind that a large number of students who make threats are being bullied and/or have suicidal thinking. A helpful website on suicide prevention and effective intervention is available at Guidance Channel Online.
After a student has been referred for a threat inquiry and any necessary referrals have been made, the team will wish to design a behavior support plan so all staff are aware how to best support this student and so that staff are aware of monitoring needs for this student.
- Description and Sample Behavior Plans for Carlie, Mitch and Ramon
There are extensive website links and PowerPoint presentations on this topic, all in accord with the Safe School Initiative. A key website helpful to schools is Virginia Youth Violence Project. At this website you can learn about a research-validated threat assessment protocol by Dr. Dewey Cornell and colleagues at the University of Virginia, published by Sopris West.
Threat Assessment Training - Table of Contents
