Dear Families and Salem Public Schools Community,

At Salem Public Schools, the safety and well-being of our students, staff, and community are our highest priorities. To ensure a secure environment, our school system utilizes a comprehensive process for assessing potential violent threats. We want to keep you informed about how we handle these situations to maintain a safe and supportive atmosphere for all.

Threat Assessment Process:

  1. Identification: Any verbal, written, or behavioral threat made by a student or towards the school is taken seriously. This can include threats made in person, online, or via other communication channels. Staff, students, caregivers and community members are encouraged to report any concerns immediately.
  2. Immediate Response: Once a threat is identified, our first priority is to ensure the immediate safety of everyone involved. This may include securing the area, notifying law enforcement, or taking other precautionary actions.
  3. Threat Assessment Team: A trained Threat Assessment Team—composed of school administrators, counselors, mental health professionals, and law enforcement—will quickly convene to evaluate the seriousness of the threat. They assess the situation using established guidelines, and consider the context, intent, and capability of the individual to carry out the threat.
  4. Investigation and Evaluation: The team conducts a thorough investigation, which may include interviews with the student(s) involved, witnesses, and reviewing evidence. They consider the student’s history, mental health status, and other relevant factors to determine the level of risk.
  5. Intervention and Support: Based on the assessment, the team decides on the appropriate actions, which may range from disciplinary measures to mental health support and counseling. In cases where the threat is credible, law enforcement may be involved. Our goal is not only to address the immediate concern but also to provide support and resources to prevent future incidents.
  6. Communication with Families: Parents or guardians of students involved in an incident will be informed and involved in the process. Additionally, if there is a broader safety concern affecting the school community, we will communicate with all families while maintaining the confidentiality of individuals.

We understand hearing about potential threats can be alarming, but please be assured that our district has robust procedures in place to handle situations with care, professionalism, and a focus on maintaining a positive and secure learning environment. We want to emphasize to you that Salem Public Schools are not facing these challenges alone. Our protocols are aligned with national best practices, ensuring that we address risks effectively and in accordance with the highest standards.

You can find an overview of our protocol here.

Thank you for your continued support in keeping our schools safe.