A Behavioral Threat Assessment is used to identify how a student’s behavior and/or actions may lead to future conflicts on campus.

What Behavioral Threat Assessment protocols are used by BCSD?

BCSD has adopted the Comprehensive School Threat Assessment Guidelines (CSTAG). CSTAG is an evidence-based Behavioral Threat Assessment and is the most widely used Behavioral Threat Assessment system used by K-12 schools across the United States.

When is a Behavioral Threat Assessment initiated?

A Behavioral Threat Assessment is initiated when a student’s behavior and/or actions demonstrate the possibility of future conflict on campus.  The age and cognitive ability of the students are taken into consideration in every situation. A direct threat does not need to be made to begin the CSTAG assessment.  Examples include but are not limited to: a student making statements they want to fight another student, a physical altercation between students on campus, or a threat of targeted violence against a school and/or school stakeholders.

Who conducts a CSTAG assessment?

Every school has a Behavioral Threat Assessment Team (Team) trained in the CSTAG protocols. Team members include an administrator, school counselor, school social work, school psychologist, and a School Resource Officer.  BCSD also has a district advisory team to assist schools in CSTAG assessments.  At bare minimum, a CSTAG assessment is conducted by an administrator and a school mental health professional (counselor, social workers, psychologist).  Based on the nature of the incident, other team members may be brought into the assessment earlier in the process.

• How are concerning behaviors or threats reported?

Reports of concerning behavior or threats can be received several different ways.  Staff, students, parents/guardians, and community members can report threats directly to a school administrator via email, phone calls, or direct communication.  Other reports come through alerts through the BCSD Gaggle Safety Management software.

BCSD also offers non-anonymous and anonymous reporting options through the Speak Up for Safety system. Non-anonymous reports can be made through the Speak Up for Safety email at speakup@bcsd61.org. Anonymous reports can be made by phone call or text through the Speak Up for Safety Phone at 208-725-3211.

If staff, students, parents/guardians, or community members believe there is an imminent threat of violence, they should contact law enforcement by direct line or by calling 9-1-1 immediately.

• What happens after concerning behavior or a threat is reported?

The school Team will contact involved parties to include the target of the threat, subject making the threat, any witnesses, and individuals who may have further information. The Team’s first goal is to determine the credibility of the threat. The Team’s second goal is to evaluate the level of the threat.  The Team’s third goal is to implement support and intervention strategies.  The Team’s fourth goal is continued monitoring and check-ins with involved parties as necessary.

• What happens if a possible imminent threat is reported?

During incidents involving a possible imminent threat or harm to stakeholders on school grounds, staff and student safety is our number one priority.  The formal Behavioral Threat Assessment process begins after appropriate actions have been taken to keep staff and students safe.  This may include notifying law enforcement immediately to assist with the situation.

• Is a Behavioral Threat Assessment a punitive or criminal process?

No. While punitive actions may be taken by a school, or criminal charges brought by a law enforcement agency, the purpose of the Behavioral Threat Assessment is to provide support and interventions to prevent future conflicts.

• What happens if my student is the target of a threat?

Any threats of violence, or behaviors that could indicate targeted violence, should be immediately reported to the school and/or law enforcement.  Parents/guardians of students who are the target of a threat will be notified by school officials or their designee.

• What happens if my student is the subject making the threat?

Any threats of violence, or behaviors that could indicate targeted violence, should be immediately reported to the school and/or law enforcement.  Parents/guardians of students who are the subject making the threat will be notified by school officials or their designee and asked to come to the school for a parent interview.  Based on the nature of the incident, parents/guardians may be required to agree to a safety plan before a student is permitted to return to school.