Threat Assessment and Management

Behavioral Threat Assessment and Management (BTAM) is a systematic, evidence-based process used to identify, investigate, and assess concerning behaviors. Its primary goal is to distinguish between someone making a threat and someone posing a threat to the school community, and then to develop a management plan that supports the safety and well-being of everyone involved. The Idaho BTAM model is grounded in current research and aligns with the U.S. Department of Justice’s guidance and national best-practice recommendations. In addition, key national organizations—including the U.S. Secret Service National Threat Assessment Center (NTAC), the Association of Threat Assessment Professionals (ATAP), and SchoolSafety.gov—provide extensive research, case studies, and tools that further support schools in developing effective prevention and intervention strategies.

The Idaho Office of School Safety and Security (IOSSS) affirms that effective Behavioral Threat Assessment is multidisciplinary and community-based. Preventing acts of violence is a shared responsibility—schools, families, law enforcement, mental health providers, and community partners all play critical roles. IOSSS training provides an investigative protocol, an assessment framework, and guidance for developing effective and sustainable management strategies.

The Behavioral Threat Assessment Team Training is an eight-hour, in-person course designed for school staff and community partner agencies. If you would like to request on-site training, please contact our office for more information.

National Center for School Safety — Threat Assessment Toolkit

The Threat Assessment Toolkit from the National Center for School Safety provides schools with a comprehensive collection of evidence-based resources to support the full BTAM process—from identifying concerning behaviors to assessment, documentation, and ongoing management. The toolkit includes practical templates, role-based guidance, team training materials, and downloadable tools designed to strengthen multidisciplinary threat assessment teams and improve consistency across the prevention and intervention process.

The State of Behavioral Threat Assessment and Management in K-12 Public Schools

A new nationwide study by NTAC and RAND reveals that nearly all U.S. public K–12 schools now use some form of Behavioral Threat Assessment and Management (BTAM) — a major milestone for school safety. The report offers the most comprehensive look yet at how these programs are operating, what’s working, and where implementation gaps remain — serving as a critical roadmap for districts striving to strengthen prevention and early-intervention efforts.

National Center for School Safety — Threat Assessment Toolkit

Additional Resources