ABSTRACT
By implementing quality universal and targeted interventions, schools can minimize the need for more intensive interventions. High-risk behaviors are often an outward manifestation of more serious emotional or behavioral difficulties that are not likely to respond to universal prevention or targeted intervention in schools; thus, individual or intensive support utilizing a multi-agency effort may be needed. School-based procedures for identification and intervention with students who demonstrate risk behaviors or other intensive needs are best guided by principles derived from federal and state guidelines. Managing risk behaviors that signal possible risk to self or others necessitates an intensive and individualized approach. Best practices for suicide intervention with students exhibiting warning signs or making suicidal threats are more likely to be implemented when a school’s procedures are clearly outlined and staff are thoroughly trained. Students in schools may also exhibit other risk behaviors that indicate a need for intensive and individualized interventions.
