Power Hour: From Warning Signs to Prevention: Inside Tips from the FBI for School Administrators

Presenters: Rob Cariola, FBI Special Agent, Regional Threat Management Coordinator and Corporal Andrew McCloskey, Community Anti-Threat Officer  

Presentation Description: "This workshop will provide school administrators with practical insight into recognizing, assessing, and responding to behaviors and warning signs that may indicate a student is moving toward violence. FBI Special Agent Rob Cariola will explore the progression from concerning behaviors and threats to potential acts of harm, with an emphasis on early intervention and prevention.

Topics will include threat calls and leakage, behavioral interviewing, self-harming behaviors, student hygiene and other behavioral changes, and the role of unfettered internet access in exposing students to harmful online communities and violent or true-crime content. The session will also examine how online spaces—including true-crime communities and school-shooter-related content—can contribute to fixation, normalization, or escalation of concerning behaviors.

Participants will gain practical considerations for identifying warning signs, conducting effective behavioral interviews, strengthening school safety plans, and coordinating an appropriate response when concerns arise. The goal is to help school personnel recognize behaviors earlier, understand the pathway toward harm, and take informed steps to support student safety and prevent escalation."

Microsoft Teams Link for this session will be sent in your registration confirmation email. 

Questions or trouble logging into Microsoft Teams:
Contact Dr. Beth Haldeman, PA Principals Director of Professional Development at haldeman@paprincipals.org