Logic Model
Logic Model: Behavioral Assessment and Recommendation Team
Policy Document Educational Programs Intervention Activity
Annual Report to the VPSA
Provide a safe physical environment for members of the university community
Provide a safe emotional environment for the university community
Promote peace of mind for friends and family of the university community
Columbus State University understands that even with the best intentions, situations may arise that are unforeseen by any member of the university community.
The Behavioral Assessment and Recommendation Team is committed to operating with limited information while prioritizing the safety and well-being of both the university community and individuals involved.
The Behavioral Assessment and Recommendation Team receives information from students, faculty, staff, and other sources deemed appropriate by the committee.
The Behavioral Assessment and Recommendation Team acts as a central hub for collecting and managing reports regarding students, faculty, staff, and external individuals who may be concerning Their actions and recommendations are forwarded to the relevant offices or individuals for appropriate follow-up.
Columbus State University understands the climate that exists on college campuses in the post Virginia Tech era.
In addition, each public institution in Georgia has been directed by the Chancellor’s office to develop a plan and select a committee to address potential threats of this nature.
Action Plan for On-Campus Gatherings and/or Demonstrations
Columbus State University, as part of the University System of Georgia, is expected to host various student and public gatherings and demonstrations The University has established policies and practices for organizing these events Nonetheless, it is important to recognize that some gatherings or demonstrations may occur spontaneously or as planned acts of civil disobedience.
This Action Plan will be activated for gatherings or demonstrations that pose an unreasonable risk to the health or safety of both participants and non-participants, regardless of their origin or circumstances.
This Action Plan does not diminish or replace the University Police's responsibility and authority to respond to imminent threats to life, health, safety, and property.
The Action Plan is based on existing policy and procedures.
1 Student Rights statement from the Student Handbook 2
The Action Plan has no political intent or considerations.
The intent of the Action Plan is to:
1 protect the rights of the students,
2 protect the mission integrity of the University, and
3 protect the health and safety of the campus community and visitors.
The Behavioral Assessment and Recommendation Team 4 (BART) is responsible for monitoring ongoing gatherings or demonstrations To assess these events effectively, the BART chair may convene preliminary meetings with selected team members.
If a gathering or demonstration poses an unreasonable risk to the health or safety of participants or bystanders, the BART chair will convene a full Team meeting to assess the situation and decide whether a recommendation is necessary.
If BART determines that no recommendation is warranted, BART will simply continue to monitor, as needed.
BART will make necessary recommendations to the relevant University personnel if it deems them appropriate These recommendations may encompass various actions or sanctions aligned with the guidelines outlined in the Student Handbook, Faculty Handbook, and Staff policies.
2 Columbus State University, Student Handbook
3 Columbus State University, Student Handbook
4 Columbus State University, BART Policies and Procedures
RED FLAGS, WARNING SIGNS AND INDICATORS
Virginia.gov (2008) Report of the Virginia Tech Review Panel, Appendix M Retrieved on May 15, 2008 from http://www.governor.virginia.gov/TempContent/techpanelreport.cfm.
Experts assessing the risk of individuals harming themselves or others rely on various indicators and red flags that require careful consideration A solitary warning sign typically does not prompt immediate action from a threat assessment specialist; however, it should raise awareness for further investigation When multiple warning signs are identified, it becomes essential to conduct additional fact-finding to evaluate the potential for danger.
Certain warning signs are more critical than others when assessing potential risks For example, an individual's fascination with and ownership of firearms is a stronger indicator of potential danger compared to simply being a loner, as firearms provide the means to carry out an attack However, if a person only possesses firearms without any additional concerning behaviors, they are less likely to pose a significant threat.
The presence of multiple warning signs significantly heightens the risk of an individual becoming dangerous A person who owns firearms, is socially isolated, shows an interest in previous shooting incidents, writes about homicide and suicide, displays unusual behavior, expresses thoughts of retribution, has a history of mental illness, and refuses counseling poses a considerable threat to themselves and others A school threat assessment team, upon identifying these indicators, should take prompt action to address the situation.
Talking to the student and developing a treatment plan with conditions for remaining in school
Calling the parents or other guardians
Requesting permission to receive medical and educational records
Checking with law enforcement to ascertain whether there have been any interactions with police
Talking with roommates and faculty
Suspending the student until the student has been treated and doctors indicate the student is not a safety risk
In the United States, it is crucial for schools, workplaces, and other organizations to recognize warning signs associated with potential school shootings Being aware of these indicators and red flags can enhance threat assessment capabilities and help prevent tragic incidents.
Individuals often gravitate towards various forms of media that depict violence and degradation, including books, magazines, television shows, video tapes, discs, movies, music, websites, and chat rooms This preference for content with violent themes can also extend to engaging in role-playing activities that reflect these violent and degrading scenarios.
Difficulty controlling anger, loss of temper, impulsivity,
Fascination with weapons and accoutrements –
Especially those designed and most often used to kill people (such as machine guns, semiautomatic pistols, snub nose revolvers, stilettos, bayonets, daggers, brass knuckles, special ammunition and explosives).
Boasting and practicing of fighting and combat proficiency –
Military and sharpshooter training, martial arts, use of garrotes, and knife fighting.
Isolated and socially withdrawn, misfit, prefers own company to the company of others.
Depressed and expresses hopelessness and despair,
[See note below by Dr Cheryl Yatsko]
Makes comments and/or gestures indicating violent aggression.
Follows, harasses, surveils, attempts to contact regardless of the victim’s expressed annoyance and demands to cease and desist.
Non-compliance and disciplinary problems –
Refusal to abide by written and/or verbal rules.
Appearance, dress, grooming, possessions like those of violent shooters in past episodes (e.g long black trench coats).
Interest in previous shooting situations –
Drawn toward media, books, entertainment, conversations dealing with past murders.
Fantasy that someday he will represent the oppressed and wreak vengeance on the oppressors.
Actions and words that cause people around him to become fearful and suspicious.
Belief that he is being singled out for unfair treatment and/or abuse; feeling persecuted.
A history of using violence to solve problems (fighting, hitting, etc.), abusing animals or weaker individuals.
Enjoying cruel behavior and/or being able to view cruelty without being disturbed.
Expressing disproportionate anger or humor in situations not warranting it, attacking surrogate targets.
A history of contact with police for anger, stalking, disorderly conduct;
Past temporary restraining orders (or similar court orders),
A jail/prison record for aggressive crimes
Mental health history related to dangerousness –
A history of referral or commitments to mental health facilities for aggressive/destructive behavior.
An inability to express and/or experience joy and pleasure.
Unusual interest in police, military, terrorist activities and materials
Vehicles resembling police cars, military vehicles, surveillance equipment, handcuffs, weapons, clothing (camouflage, ski masks, etc.).
Alcohol/drugs are used to reduce inhibitions so that aggressive behaviors are more easily expressed.
Note: Additional information on suicidal ideation provided by Dr Cheryl Yatsko, Columbus
Depressed and expresses helplessness, hopelessness, and worthlessness.
Talking about suicide, or making statements like “everybody would be better off without me.”
Acquiring the means, e.g., buying a gun.
Agenda for Regular BART Meeting
Maxient Reports 1202 and/or 1204 (with notes)
NaBITA, Threat Assessment Tool
Appendix VI - Critical Incident Res ponse - W orksheet
Student to (1) remain on campus or (2) leave campus
(1) Remain on campus Placed in the care of the Counseling Center
Placed in the care of parent or professionals
Present on-campus student with results of Administrative Meeting
Implement Counseling Center follow up plan Implement other plans
Student requested Medical Withdrawal Forced Administrative Withdrawal
Appendix VII - Critical Incident Response - Worksheet
Appendix VIII - Annual Confidentiality and Training Agreement
Behavior Assessment and Recommendation Team
Annual Confidentiality and Training Agreement
Columbus State University has created the Behavior Assessment and Recommendation Team (BART) to address disruptive, threatening, or concerning behaviors exhibited by students, faculty, or staff This initiative aims to identify individuals whose actions may jeopardize their own or others' health and safety, as well as those that disrupt the university's educational and administrative functions The established policies and procedures are intended to promote a safe and conducive environment for all members of the university community.
Please initial each statement below
_ I understand the mission, goals, policies, and procedures of BART, and agree to participate in meetings and training to the best of my ability
_I understand that all records associated with BART are subject to FERPA:
Student education records may be shared with University officials who have a legitimate educational interest This includes individuals employed by the University in various roles such as administrative, supervisory, academic, research, or support staff, as well as law enforcement and health personnel.
Universities may share educational records with contracted professionals like attorneys, auditors, or collection agents, as well as with students serving on official committees such as disciplinary or grievance boards A university official demonstrates a legitimate educational interest when reviewing an education record to fulfill their professional duties.
It is essential to recognize that many records are subject to change and may not be finalized when accessed Therefore, caution is advised to avoid making judgments or decisions based on this information without first consulting the Office of the Dean of Students.
_ I understand that none of the BART records can be viewed, shared, or discussed with any non-BART member, due to their dynamic nature
Requests from non-BART members to access or print BART records must be submitted to the Office of the Dean of Students for approval, as certain information may need to be redacted to ensure compliance with FERPA regulations.
Appendix IX – Procedure for Applicants with Criminal History
Applicant with Criminal History Admission Review Process
Question on the Columbus State University application
3 Have you ever been convicted of any criminal offense other than a traffic violation or do you have charges pending? ❑Yes ❑ No
1 Admissions Office sends the student a letter explaining the process and a
Criminal Background Form to sign and return
2 When the form is returned, University Police runs the criminal history and delivers the report to Admissions
The BART sub-committee, comprising the Dean of Students, Chief of Police, and an Admissions Office representative, conducts a thorough review of various factors, including crimes against individuals, drug-related offenses such as sales and distribution, any pending charges, multiple offenses, current probation or parole status, and any omissions or inaccuracies in the application They also consider the time elapsed since the last conviction or incarceration.
Office sends letter of acceptance, if other criteria are met.
Admissions Office send denial letter with directions to call Chief Drew with any questions.
Applicant Calls Chief of Police
Applicant provides new information or a compelling explanation not given during the initial consideration The BART sub- committee will review the new information and render a decision.
Applicant does not provide any new information or a compelling explanation for consideration.
Denied - Chief of Police communicates the decision with the applicant.
Approved – the Admissions Office communicates with the applicant and sends letter of acceptance, if other criteria are met.
Your application for admission to XXXX University has been reviewed, including your supporting documents and any criminal history or disciplinary records from previous institutions Unfortunately, your application has been denied.
If you have additional information that may not have been considered or questions regarding the process, you may contact Chief XXXX with the University Police Department (xxx-xxx-xxxx)
You can reapply to the University after one year, and it's essential to prepare documentation of your activities during that time to enhance your chances of a favorable admissions review This documentation may encompass various experiences, such as education, work, volunteer activities, or personal development efforts.
Evidence of academic success, which might include technical college or other types of credits that may or may not transfer to XXXX State as academic credit.
To strengthen your case, include letters of support from your employer, a minister, or a non-family member who is familiar with your situation These letters should clearly indicate their awareness of your circumstances and the close contact you have had with them during this time.
Depending on your situation, show evidence of mental health counseling, drug rehabilitation, or specific program completion records such as anger management training.
If you are on parole or probation, a letter from your court assigned officer indicating that you have been compliant during the past year.
We recognize that every situation is distinct, and the provided list serves as a foundation for ongoing discussions with students interested in reapplying Our goal is to support every applicant in their journey to success, but there are instances when the response may be “not now.”
If you are serious about being reconsidered for enrollment at XXXXX University, let me encourage you to contact Chief XXXXX and start the conversation.
Annual Confidentiality and Training Agreement
Behavior Assessment and Recommendation Team
Annual Confidentiality and Training Agreement
Columbus State University has created the Behavior Assessment and Recommendation Team (BART) to address disruptive, threatening, or concerning behaviors exhibited by students, faculty, or staff This initiative aims to identify individuals whose actions may jeopardize their own safety or that of others, as well as those that disrupt the university's educational and administrative functions Through these policies and procedures, the university seeks to promote a safe and conducive environment for all.
Please initial each statement below
_ I understand the mission, goals, policies, and procedures of BART, and agree to participate in meetings and training to the best of my ability
_I understand that all records associated with BART are subject to FERPA:
Student education records can be shared with University officials who have a legitimate educational interest This includes individuals employed by the University in various roles such as administrative, supervisory, academic, research, or support staff, as well as law enforcement and health personnel.
A university official, including attorneys, auditors, or collection agents, may access educational records if they have a legitimate educational interest, which means they need to review these records to perform their professional duties This also extends to individuals serving on official committees, such as disciplinary or grievance committees, or those assisting other school officials in their responsibilities.
It is important to recognize that many records are subject to change and may not be finalized when accessed Therefore, caution is advised against making judgments or decisions based on this information without consulting the Office of the Dean of Students first.
_ I understand that none of the BART records can be viewed, shared, or discussed with any non-BART member, due to their dynamic nature
Requests to view or print BART records by non-BART members must be submitted to and approved by the Office of the Dean of Students, as certain information may require redaction to comply with FERPA regulations.
Procedure for Applicants with Criminal History
Applicant with Criminal History Admission Review Process
Question on the Columbus State University application
3 Have you ever been convicted of any criminal offense other than a traffic violation or do you have charges pending? ❑Yes ❑ No
1 Admissions Office sends the student a letter explaining the process and a
Criminal Background Form to sign and return
2 When the form is returned, University Police runs the criminal history and delivers the report to Admissions
The BART sub-committee, comprising the Dean of Students, Chief of Police, and an Admissions Office representative, conducts a thorough review of various factors, including crimes against individuals, drug-related offenses, any pending charges, multiple offenses, current probation or parole status, omissions or inaccuracies in application information, and the duration since the last conviction or incarceration.
Office sends letter of acceptance, if other criteria are met.
Admissions Office send denial letter with directions to call Chief Drew with any questions.
Applicant Calls Chief of Police
Applicant provides new information or a compelling explanation not given during the initial consideration The BART sub- committee will review the new information and render a decision.
Applicant does not provide any new information or a compelling explanation for consideration.
Denied - Chief of Police communicates the decision with the applicant.
Approved – the Admissions Office communicates with the applicant and sends letter of acceptance, if other criteria are met.
Your application for admission to XXXX University has been reviewed, including your supporting documents and any criminal history or disciplinary records from previous institutions Unfortunately, your application has been denied.
If you have additional information that may not have been considered or questions regarding the process, you may contact Chief XXXX with the University Police Department (xxx-xxx-xxxx)
If you wish to reapply to the University, you may do so after one year Be ready to provide documentation of your activities during that time, as this can positively influence your admissions review This documentation may include various experiences and accomplishments.
Evidence of academic success, which might include technical college or other types of credits that may or may not transfer to XXXX State as academic credit.
Letters of support from your employer, a minister, or a non-family member who has been closely involved in your life during this time can significantly bolster your case These individuals should attest to their awareness of your situation, providing credible endorsements that highlight your circumstances and the support you have received.
Depending on your situation, show evidence of mental health counseling, drug rehabilitation, or specific program completion records such as anger management training.
If you are on parole or probation, a letter from your court assigned officer indicating that you have been compliant during the past year.
We recognize that every situation is different, which is why the provided list serves as a foundation for ongoing discussions with students interested in reapplying We genuinely want all applicants to succeed, but there are instances when the response may be "not now."
If you are serious about being reconsidered for enrollment at XXXXX University, let me encourage you to contact Chief XXXXX and start the conversation.