Resources to Support Schools Following Today’s Active Shooter Threats

School leaders, educators, and public safety officials worked heroically today to keep students, staff, and schools safe, provide clear communication to families, and follow emergency preparedness plans in response to the active shooter threats that occurred at multiple schools across Maine.

Today’s school threats caused fear and uncertainty across our state, and we know that many students, staff, and school communities may need additional supports to help process the experience. Reassuring students, staff, and families that school is a safe and supportive environment is an important step after any event like this.

The Maine Department of Education continues to offer support and resources to promote the safety and wellbeing of students, families, and educators and we urge you to reach out to us for assistance.

• The Office of School and Student Supports (O3S) understands that as parents, educators, students, and concerned community members, the intensity of emotions related to these incidences can become obstacles in engaging in everyday activities. O3S offers resources and trainings to bolster connectedness and safety. You can contact DOESchoolandStudentSupports@maine.gov for assistance.

Resources for Parents:

• • National Child Traumatic Stress Network responding to child trauma reactions
  • Assisting Parents/Caregivers in Coping with Collective Traumas
  • Creating Supportive Environments When Scary Things Happen

Resources For Educators:

• • Supporting Our Schools Modules for Staff Support
  • Psychological First Aid for Schools (PFA-S) Field Operations Guide
  • Helping Youth after Community Trauma: Tips for Educators
  • Providing Psychological First Aid: Teachers

• The Positive Behavioral Intervention System (PBIS) Team has a collection of resources for supporting schools during and after crisis, coping tips for traumatic events, and materials to support educators and parents in supporting students after an incident of violence and talking to children about violence. You can find those resources here.
• The Maine School Safety Center (MSSC) can support schools with their emergency planning needs to address preplanning, response, and recovery. The MSSC is available to assist with behavioral threat assessment and mental health trainings. You can learn more about MSSC’s services and contact staff here.

We are grateful to all of you for your efforts today, and every day, to make all Maine schools the safe and supportive environments our students need to thrive.