Recognizing the importance of school safety and security, Hampton Bays Public Schools hosted a professional development assembly focused on behavioral threat assessment on Nov. 4. The event was facilitated by representatives from the U.S. Secret Service National Threat Assessment Center and co-sponsored by Hampton Bays and the Southampton Town Police Department.

This was the first assembly on Long Island in nearly 10 years to address this topic, reflecting a renewed regional focus on proactive safety strategies and early intervention.

Participants from across Nassau and Suffolk counties attended, including law enforcement officials and school district personnel. Superintendents, administrators, school resource officers, security staff, guidance counselors, social workers and psychologists gathered to hear from national experts about identifying and supporting students who may be in distress. The training emphasized early intervention and prevention as central components in reducing the potential for school-based violence.

“Ensuring the safety of our students and staff requires teamwork, awareness and a commitment to prevention,” said Lars Clemenson, superintendent of schools. “By bringing together educational and law enforcement professionals, we are strengthening our collective ability to identify and support students in need before situations escalate.”

The program highlighted the importance of collaboration among schools, families and law enforcement to maintain safe and inclusive learning environments. Attendees learned practical strategies for assessing potential threats and providing appropriate support and resources to students showing signs of concern.