VCPE Threat Assessment Requirement for Schools

In the wake of the Uvalde tragedy, this is extremely important! This year, VCPE adopted a new state requirement for accredited schools.

Safe Schools Initiatives

All schools must have at least one person trained in K-12 threat assessment no later than July 1, 2023, with evidence of the creation and implementation of a school-based threat assessment team (more than 1 staff member), as well as evidence of training provided to school staff.

Access to more information regarding this training requirement may be found through the links below. The course is called “K-12 Behavioral Threat Assessment Basic Training” and can be taken in a virtual or in-person format.

Please note that the DCJS Threat Assessment training is just an example of one training option to fulfill this requirement however, if another vendor is used to train school staff you must ensure it is specific to THREAT ASSESSMENT and not active shooter.

VCPE staff will also provide this training after September 1, 2022. The VCPE Office will establish a training calendar soon which will be sent out to you.

Acceptable Training must address the following:

  • What is a threat? What is concerning/aberrant behavior?

  • Rationale for the threat assessment approach to violence prevention

  • The principles of threat assessment

  • Understanding the Pathway to Violence

  • Mandated roles and responsibilities of threat assessment teams

  • The importance of reporting, reporting mechanisms, and overcoming barriers to reporting

  • Investigating reports of concerning/aberrant/threatening behaviors

  • Assessing and classifying threats

  • The nexus between threat assessment and suicide risk assessment

  • Information sharing and confidentiality

  • Understanding the goals of threat management and interventions

Virtual Courses
In Person Courses