When Safety Meets Special Education: Threat Assessments and Suspensions

Navigating Threat Assessments in Special Education

Aleia Mastroianni and board members Kelly Mayr, Courtney Nangle, Meredith Daley, and Tashia White discuss the unique challenges that threat assessments pose within the special needs community. They cover how atypical behaviors associated with disabilities can be misinterpreted as threats, the lack of parental notification during assessments, and the potential negative consequences for neurodiverse students. The conversation touches on the need for clear communication with schools, proactive planning through IEPs and BIPs, and educating children about self-advocacy and understanding their own behaviors. The episode aims to provide insights and actionable steps for parents dealing with these complex issues.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introductions

00:24 Understanding Threat Assessments in Special Education

01:45 Personal Experiences with Threat Assessments

03:13 Challenges and Vulnerabilities in the Process

06:17 Parental Concerns and Recommendations

15:47 Alternative Approaches to Discipline

19:41 Final Thoughts and Resources

DCSD Safety and Security Forum

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LK4engtBFoI

ABC Behavior Tracking

https://www.educationandbehavior.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/ABC-Chart.pdf