What behaviors initiate a student threat assessment?
A student threat assessment will be initiated for the following behaviors, including, but not limited to, serious violence or violence with intent to harm or kill, verbal/written threats to harm/kill others, online threats to harm/kill others, possession of weapons (including replicas), bomb threats and fire setting.
Duty to report
To keep our school communities safe and caring, staff, parents, students and community members must report all threat-related behaviors.
What is a threat?
A threat is an expression of intent to do harm or act out violently against someone or something. Threats may be verbal, written, drawn, posted online or made by gesture. Threats will be taken seriously and investigated. Based on the conclusions of the investigation, appropriate follow-up actions will occur, which may include the involvement of law enforcement, implementation of an intervention plan, and discipline.
What is a Site-Specific Threat Assessment Team?
The school has a site-specific threat assessment team that includes, at least, the principal(s), counselor(s), teachers and a member of law enforcement.
What is the purpose of a student threat assessment?
The purposes of a student threat assessment are:
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To ensure the safety of students, staff, parents and others.
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To ensure a full understanding of the context of the threat.
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To understand factors contributing to the threat makers’ behavior.
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To be proactive in developing an intervention plan that addresses the emotional and physical safety of the threat maker.
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To promote the emotional and physical safety of all.
What happens in a student threat assessment?
All threat making behavior by a student shall be reported to the principal who will activate the protocol for the initial response. Once the team has been activated, interviews may be held with the student(s), the threat maker, parents and staff to determine the level of risk and develop an appropriate response to the incident. Intervention plans will be developed as needed and shared with parents, staff and students.
Can I refuse to participate in a threat assessment process?
It is important for all parties to engage in the process. However, if for some reason there is a reluctance to participate in the process by the threat maker or parent / guardian, the threat assessment process will continue with the information available in order to promote a safe and caring learning environment.
Student Privacy Concerns
The School District complies with applicable student privacy laws. However, under the Federal Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), the School District may disclose information to appropriate parties when knowledge of the information is necessary to protect the health and safety of a student or other individual.