Behavior Safety Assessment System (Threat-SIRC-Fire)

If you are concerned about a student being at risk to harm someone, or to harm themselves, the following resources can assist you. If this is an emergency dial 911 or 988.

Marion County

Law Enforcement

Department of Human Services (DHS)

Mental Health Services

If you are concerned about a student being at risk to harm someone, or to harm themselves, the following resources can assist you. If this is an emergency dial 911 or 988.

Polk County

Law Enforcement & Department of Human Services

Department of Human Services (DHS)

Mental Health Services

If you are concerned about a student being at risk to harm someone, or to harm themselves, the following resources can assist you. If this is an emergency dial 911 or 988.

Yamhill County

Law Enforcement

Department of Human Services (DHS)

Mental Health Services

The Oregon Model

A Behavioral Safety (threat) Assessment (BSA) helps identify situations that may pose a risk of violence or harm, determine the seriousness of that risk, and develop both safety and supervision strategies. BSA teams follow an assessment protocol based on the Salem-Keizer Cascade Model, developed from evidence-based research, while also ensuring issues of bias and equity are addressed throughout the process. 

The initial assessment of concerning statements or behaviors is addressed at the school level.  Most safety threats fall within the Level 1 protocol conducted by a school-based team composed of an administrator, school counselor and/or school psychologist. 

When a threat is determined to be viable, the assessment is then escalated to the Level 2 protocol which is carried out by a multidisciplinary, community based Behavior Safety Assessment Team. The school-based team needs to have completed all steps of the Level 1 assessment and determined a need for a Level 2 consultation before requesting the protocol. Schools can request assistance with Level 2 assessments at the district or county level or by partnering with their School Safety and Prevention Specialist.

WESD Staff RESOURCES

One of the toughest decisions you may face is whether to tell an adult you are worried about a friend or fellow student.  Friends often feel they should stay silent, but when it comes to the safety of your friends or the safety of others, you can tell a trusted adult. It is an act of care and concern for your friend.      

How do I know if I'm overreacting to the situation?  

You don’t know.  But if your feelings tell you that something is wrong, you should report it to your parents, school administrator, counselor, teacher or other trusted adult.  By speaking up you let adults trained in asking the right questions to become involved and provide the help needed.  

What if my friend is just blowing off steam?  

That may be true if they make a one-time comment and there are no other signs that make you worry.  If your friend mentions hurting themselves or others more than once, or there is a specific plan to hurt themselves or others, you need to tell a trusted adult.  

What about the "Code of Silence" at my school?  

It's always hard to tell an adult about one of your peers.  The most important thing is to always keep your friends and classmates safe.  Tell an adult you trust.  Students will often talk or use social media to share their fears or anger.  Often they really want help and support.  If no one listens and takes action they may feel they have no alternative but to act on their intentions.  

If I report it, will it ruin my friendship? 

It's certainly possible that your friend might be angry at first.  It might damage your friendship. But you report because you care about this person.  Their safety, and the safety of others, is more important than a tough spot in your friendship.    

What should I report? 

If you feel anyone is in danger, it should be reported.  Even if you're not sure someone would actually carry out a threat or act of violence you should tell a trusted adult. There may be more going on than you know, so it is very important to let trusted adults know of your concerns.

Report to SAFE OREGON TIPLINE

Risk Factors

• The child communicates about the intent to harm others or themselves.
• The child is focused on a specific person or group of people to harm.
• The child is making a plan for harming others or themselves.
• There is a perceived motivation or reason to harm others or themselves.
• There is a perception of no alternatives to violence.
• There is a willingness to accept the consequences of violence.
• The child has an abnormal fascination with weapons, violence, or violent people.
• Other people are expressing concerns about the student's potential for harm.

Even if you are unsure, or if you can't identify risk factors, your concerns are important and should be reported. 

If you have concerns of immediate danger, call 911 or 988.

Code of Silence Talking Points - English

Marion County Risk Brochure

Polk County Risk Brochure

Yamhill County Risk Brochure 

Developmentally Normative Guide

Grooming Behaviors

Dating Violence (Marion County)

NetSmartz - Internet Safety

National Center for Missing & Exploited Children 

Breakthecylce.com - Dating Violence 

Supporting Gender Expansive Students: Guidance for Schools