School Level Differences in School Threat Scenario Written Plans: A National Analysis

Abstract

This study was conducted to examine the effect of school level (i.e., elementary, middle, and high school) on written school safety plans in the areas of active shooter, hostage, and bomb threat scenarios.  Inferential statistical analyses of nationwide survey data revealed the presence of statistically significant differences in the incidence of written plans for active shooter, hostage, and bomb threat scenarios by school level.  Elementary schools were less likely to have written plans in active shooter, hostage, and bomb threat scenarios than were middle schools and high schools.  In addition, written plans for active shooter and bomb threat scenarios were commonplace at each level compared to written hostage plans.  Implications and recommendations for future research were discussed.