To Prevent School Attacks, Researchers Recommend Threat Assessment

Dec 10, 2021, 1:56 PM

(from the Washington Post) Schools may be flummoxed about how best to prevent active shooter attacks in the wake of the recent tragedy in Oxford, Michigan, but researchers suggest using a threat assessment system may be the most effective strategy. Schools want to neither over- nor underreact to threats, and a trained team with diverse perspectives along with a research-based decision tree can help identify problems before they reach extremes. The Michigan state government recommends that the Oxford Community School District build a “screening and assessment system to ensure the early identification of learners with behavioral health needs,” according to a spokesperson for the state police.