“Beyond the Trigger: Gun Violence Intervention Workbook”

This curriculum provides trauma-informed guidance, conflict-resolution tools, emotional regulation strategies, and peer-influence awareness specifically for middle and high school youth. Some resources are also suitable for elementary and secondary education settings, and for students in special education. It is designed for use in school-based programs, community mental health settings, prevention initiatives, and youth-serving agencies, supporting compliance with school safety plans and procedures, and can be integrated into the process of maintaining and transferring student records.

1. “Teen Dating Violence Prevention Workbook”

This workbook helps teens build skills for healthy relationships, emotional safety, and early detection of abusive behaviors. It also equips facilitators with structured sessions that support students in developing self-awareness, empathy, communication tools, and safe decision-making. Both workbooks include group activities and structured modules that focus on:

· Youth violence prevention · Trauma-informed care · Community safety · Early intervention · Resilience and protective factor development · Behavioral health support for school-aged youth

1. Financially Lit: Middle School Financial Literacy Curriculum (Grades 6–8) Financial literacy is a key protective factor against poverty, crime, and negative life outcomes.

The Financially Lit Curriculum teaches middle school students how to understand money, build financial discipline, and create a path toward long-term success. While designed for middle class levels, it can be adapted for other class levels as needed. Curriculum Covers: 1. Financial Psychology 2. Budgeting, Saving, Investing 3. Income, Careers, Entrepreneurship 4. Credit, Debt, Loans 5. Risk Management & Insurance   Includes:  394-page Student Guide  318-page Instructor Guide  PowerPoint Presentation   This curriculum strengthens families, supports academic achievement, and prepares students for future economic stability. It is also relevant for secondary education and can be integrated into school safety plans and procedures.

4. Social-Emotional Learning Workbook for Parents & Teenagers The SEL Workbook for Parents and Teenagers is a high-impact family engagement resource that builds emotional intelligence, communication skills, and healthy decision-making in teens.

With over 100 pages of guided activities, the workbook helps families develop:

1. Self-awareness

2. Self-management

3. Relationship skills

4. Social awareness

5. Responsible decision-making

6. Mood management

7. Healthy communication

It can be completed independently, at home with a parent, or used in classrooms and counseling settings. This workbook strengthens family bonding—one of the strongest predictors of school safety and youth resilience.

5. “How to Be Successful With or Without a College Degree” Audiobook This motivational audiobook teaches teens and families how to build confidence, develop discipline, and create a path to success—regardless of education level.

Key lessons include: Overcoming fear and negative thinking Building self-esteem and healthy habits Identifying strengths and personal blind spots Setting realistic goals Achieving success through discipline and mindset

6. Gun Violence Warning Sign Video This short educational video teaches students, parents, and school staff the early behavioral warning signs that commonly appear before acts of violence.

The video highlights: Leakage (threats, hints, disturbing online posts) Obsession with weapons or past shootings Rapid emotional decline Retaliation fantasies or grievance-based thinking Attempts to access firearms Concerning digital behavior

The video encourages early reporting and helps schools intervene before a crisis escalates. It also emphasizes the importance of having clear procedures and processes for documenting and sharing records related to student behavior and safety concerns, supporting compliance with school safety plans.

7. School Shooting Warning Sign Checklist This downloadable checklist provides educators, counselors, administrators, and parents with a clear, research-based list of warning behaviors associated with targeted school violence.

The checklist covers: Direct or indirect threats Violent ideation or fixation Behavioral decline Social withdrawal or rejection Aggression and risk-taking Dangerous online activity Access to weapons Pre-attack planning behaviors Major life stressors

This checklist can be used as part of school safety plans and procedures for handling student records, including the transfer of records during enrollment or when students change schools. It supports the process of maintaining accurate records and ensures that critical information is shared in compliance with school policies and state regulations.

Introduction

The state of Georgia has taken significant steps to enhance school safety and student well-being through the implementation of House Bill 268, also known as the Comprehensive School Safety & Student Well-being Act. Passed by the Georgia General Assembly, this legislation became effective on July 1, 2023, as specified in code section 20-2-1185. This legislation aims to create a safer and more supportive environment for students, teachers, and school communities across the state. By providing funding for safety upgrades, implementing anonymous reporting tools, and requiring violence prevention training, Georgia is committed to addressing the complex issues surrounding school violence and student behavioral health. The benefits of this law include improved safety, more efficient emergency response, and enhanced student well-being for all members of the school community. As the “Peach State,” Georgia is dedicated to ensuring that its schools are a place where students can thrive and reach their full potential.

Understanding School Violence

School violence is a complex issue that affects not only the students and teachers directly involved but also the broader school community. It can take many forms, including physical altercations, bullying, and terroristic threats. Understanding the root causes of school violence is crucial in developing effective strategies to prevent it. Factors such as student behavioral health, social media, and community influences can all play a role in contributing to a violent school environment. By acknowledging these factors and working together, schools, families, and state agencies can collaborate to create safer and more supportive learning environments. The Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency is at the forefront of these efforts, providing technical assistance and guidance to local school systems. Having a comprehensive school safety plan is essential to effectively address and prevent school violence.

Addressing Student Behavioral Health

Student behavioral health is a critical component of overall well-being and academic success. Schools in Georgia are now required to implement Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and Response to Intervention (RTI) programs, especially in schools with low climate ratings. These programs are designed to improve discipline and foster a more supportive school climate. Additionally, the state has allocated $20 million for behavioral health programs and $7 million to hire new student advocacy specialists. These specialists will play a vital role in coordinating interventions for students with mental health concerns and providing support to teachers and families. These interventions also extend to students receiving special education services, ensuring that behavioral health supports are accessible to those with additional needs. By addressing student behavioral health, Georgia aims to reduce the incidence of school violence and improve student outcomes.

Role of Specialists in School Safety

Student advocacy specialists are a key part of the school safety equation in Georgia. These professionals are responsible for coordinating interventions for students with mental health concerns, documenting and evaluating behavioral health training programs, and attending school safety and behavioral health training provided by the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency. By working closely with teachers, families, and local units of administration, student advocacy specialists can help identify early warning signs of violence and provide critical support to students in need. Their role is not only to respond to crises but also to prevent them by fostering a culture of well-being and safety within the school community.

Identifying Early Warning Signs

Identifying early warning signs of violence is crucial in preventing school violence. Teachers, parents, and students themselves can all play a role in recognizing these signs, which may include changes in behavior, increased aggression, or expressions of hopelessness. Schools in Georgia are now required to provide violence prevention training to students and teachers, which includes identifying these early warning signs. By creating a culture of awareness and vigilance, schools can intervene early and provide support to students before situations escalate. This proactive approach is a key component of Georgia’s comprehensive strategy to enhance school safety and student well-being, reflecting the state’s commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment for all students to thrive.

Student Support

Student support stands at the heart of the Comprehensive School Safety & Student Well-being Act, reflecting Georgia’s commitment to nurturing the behavioral health and overall well-being of every student. Recognizing that a safe and supportive environment is essential for learning, the law dedicates $20 million to student behavioral health initiatives and an additional $7 million to hire student advocacy specialists. These specialists will collaborate with local school systems to ensure that students—especially those in schools with lower climate ratings—receive the resources and support they need. Through the implementation of positive behavioral interventions and response to intervention programs, schools can improve discipline, foster a culture of respect, and create safer spaces for students to thrive. By prioritizing behavioral health and well-being, Georgia’s schools are better equipped to address challenges early and support students on their path to success.

Reporting and Responding to Threats

A cornerstone of the new law is the requirement for schools to implement robust, anonymous reporting tools that connect directly to 911 and law enforcement agencies. This empowers students, parents, and staff to quickly and safely report any concerns or potential threats, enhancing the overall security of Georgia’s schools. To further strengthen emergency preparedness, schools must also create detailed maps to aid first responders and improve safety planning. The Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency will provide technical assistance to help schools develop these maps and integrate the new reporting systems. The law also takes a firm stance on terroristic threats, with students as young as 13 facing felony charges for such acts, underscoring the seriousness with which Georgia treats school safety and security. These measures ensure that schools are prepared to respond swiftly and effectively to any threat, protecting students and staff across the state.

Collaboration and Partnerships

Effective school safety relies on strong collaboration between local school systems, law enforcement, and state agencies. The Comprehensive School Safety & Student Well-being Act encourages these partnerships by facilitating joint training and support for school staff and students. The Georgia Department of Education, in partnership with the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency, will provide technical assistance and resources to help schools implement safety protocols and respond to emergencies. By working together, state agencies and local school systems can share best practices, coordinate responses, and ensure that every school in Georgia is equipped to maintain a secure and supportive environment. This collaborative approach strengthens the safety net for students and reinforces the state’s commitment to their well-being.

Community Involvement

Community involvement is a vital element of the Comprehensive School Safety & Student Well-being Act, ensuring that the voices of parents, students, and local residents are heard in the pursuit of safer schools. The law requires schools to actively engage with their communities, including the creation of student-led prevention clubs that empower students to take an active role in violence prevention efforts. Parents and community members are also invited to participate in school safety planning, fostering a sense of shared responsibility. Additionally, the law mandates that parents disclose any serious discipline or criminal history when enrolling students in grades 4-12, allowing schools to better assess risks and provide targeted support. By building strong partnerships between schools, families, and the broader community, Georgia is creating a foundation for lasting safety and well-being.

Parental Engagement

Parental engagement is recognized as a cornerstone of student success and well-being under the Comprehensive School Safety & Student Well-being Act. The law requires schools to keep parents informed about their child’s behavioral health, well-being, and any disciplinary actions or concerns. Parents are also encouraged to participate in the development of student support plans and are provided with access to resources and services that promote their child’s health and safety. By fostering open communication and collaboration between schools and families, the law ensures that parents are active partners in supporting their child’s educational journey. This shared commitment to behavioral health and well-being helps create a safe, nurturing environment where every student can flourish.