Shared by Christina Weeter, KDE via KYSAFE ListServ
We are aware that multiple schools across the Commonwealth recently experienced bomb threats, resulting in evacuations, lockdowns, and heightened concern among students and staff.
Even when threats are not substantiated, the experience itself can feel very real and distressing. It is important to recognize that both students and staff may be carrying heightened anxiety, fear, or stress as a result of recent events.
As you prepare for the remainder of the coming days, we encourage school leadership to take a trauma-informed approach in supporting your school community. This may include:
- Creating space for students and staff to process the experience in a safe and supportive environment
- Providing clear, consistent, and developmentally appropriate communication
- Monitoring for signs of distress and connecting individuals to appropriate supports
- Reinforcing routines while allowing flexibility where needed
Approaches such as Psychological First Aid can help stabilize and support individuals following events like this.
To support your efforts, the Kentucky Department of Behavioral Health, Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities (BHDID) is sharing the following resource collection, which includes tools and guidance for responding to incidents involving threats or potential mass violence:
These resources can be used to guide staff conversations, support students, and inform communication with families.
We recognize the impact that events like this can have on school communities and appreciate your leadership in responding thoughtfully and proactively. If additional support is needed, please do not hesitate to reach out to Luke Hamlin, who manages the Kentucky Community Crisis Response Team for BHDID (luke.hamlin@ky.gov).