WFIS attended the webinar Suicide Intervention in Schools hosted by Asia Smock, Behavioral Health Navigator at Northwest Educational Service District (NWESD189). The webinar focused on practical protocols for school staff responding to suicide risk among students. Smock emphasized the importance of using structured response systems, effective communication with families, and understanding the limits and responsibilities of schools in suicide prevention.
Key topics included:
Effective Response and Intervention
- Use of clear, flexible flowcharts to guide staff through response protocols
- Assigned roles for crisis situations, such as transporting students and ensuring follow-up care
- Support strategies for chronically suicidal-risk students
Assessment Insights
- Suicide risk assessments can miss high-risk individuals; many deny ideation shortly before committing suicide
- Impulsivity is a significant and often under-identified risk factor
- Caution around the reliability of “low-risk” assessments
Communication with Families
- Share observations and urgency without stating a “risk level”
- Provide resources and written materials
- Follow up after initial contact to ensure understanding and action
Recommended Resources
- ESD189 Suicide Prevention Resources for Schools
- Suicide Prevention Protocol Flowchart (ESD112)
- Seattle Children’s Behavioral Health Crisis Care Clinic
- Ask Suicide-Screening Questions (ASQ) Toolkit
- Seattle Children’s Provider Resources
- Stanley Brown Suicide Safety Plans
- APA Guidance on Asking About Suicidal Thoughts
Asia Smock will lead a Suicide Prevention Training session that meets PESB requirements next Thursday, February 24, 2025. Details and registration are HERE.
