Training Management Solutions

• NCJ Number: 203273
• Journal: Law Enforcement Trainer Volume: 16 Issue: 4 Dated: July/August 2001 Pages: 47-49
• Author(s): Laurie Austen
• Editor(s): Frank A. Hackett
• Date Published: July 2001
• Length: 3 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Training
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This article reviews pertinent issues relevant to the growing trend in school violence response programs and the need for law enforcement to be prepared in their response through appropriately identified training.

Abstract

In many States, there is an emergence of programs addressing the law enforcement response to school violence; the new “hot topic.” However, there is also a growing understanding of the importance of preparation and the potential for devastation in schools if law enforcement is unprepared. Training today has become a priority in the area of school violence response. Yet, when training needs assessments are conducted with law enforcement agencies, this type of training is not identified as an agency priority, which may be the result of the current approach being tactically reactive. Moving away from such tactically reactive responses, agencies should ask certain questions when hot topics, such as school violence arrive: (1) what is the source of the mandate; (2) are there funds available; (3) who is the target audience; (4) are there other entities training for response; and (5) would a partnership or cross-training be beneficial? In addition, when evaluating a training program several pieces of information should be included in the proposal, such as statement of purpose for course, time for completion, instructional methods utilized, methods by which students will be evaluated, and references for materials used. In addition, the question must be addressed as to whether an agency is training or educating. Many of the school violence response programs are seen as educational in nature with the emphasis on lessons learned. The responses being taught must be applicable to the agencies involved. Managing school violence response programs means determining whether to offer training or education and whether to incorporate school issues into regular training.