Admin

Behavior Assessment Team

Behavior Assessment Team

In accordance with N.J.S.A. 18A:17-43.4 and aligned with best practices from the NJDOE and the U.S. Secret Service National Threat Assessment Center, North Hanover Township Schools have established a Behavior Assessment Team (BAT) to support the safety and well-being of our school community.

Purpose

The Behavior Assessment Team (BAT) is a multidisciplinary group tasked with identifying and supporting students exhibiting concerning behaviors that may impact their safety or the safety of others. The team works to:

  • Assess risk factors that may require further intervention or support

  • Develop individualized plans for monitoring and assistance

  • Coordinate school-based and community resources

  • Promote a safe, supportive school climate

This team does not function as a disciplinary body. Its primary role is preventative and supportive, working alongside families and educators to respond early and constructively to student needs.

Referral Process

Referrals to the BAT may be made by school staff, administrators, or community members who observe behaviors of concern. Referrals may include, but are not limited to:

  • Repeated aggressive behavior

  • Self-harm ideation or statements

  • Patterns of school disengagement after multiple interventions

  • Severe defiance requiring multidisciplinary response

  • Confirmed HIB cases requiring layered support

  • Possession of prohibited items (per district Code of Conduct)

  • Other behaviors raising substantial concern

Referrals may be submitted through an internal reporting form accessible to staff. Families are contacted when a student is referred to the team, and input is sought to create a collaborative plan.

Team Composition

The BAT is composed of:

  • School Principal (Team Leader)

  • School Counselor

  • Social Worker or Case Manager

  • Teacher Representative

  • Additional staff (as needed based on student support needs)

Procedure & Supports

Upon receiving a referral, the team:

  1. Gathers relevant academic, behavioral, and social-emotional data

  2. Interviews staff and, if appropriate, the student and their family

  3. Determines a level of concern and the appropriate tier of intervention

  4. Develops a monitoring or support plan that may include:

    • Increased check-ins with trusted adults

    • Peer support groups

    • Schedule modifications

    • Referrals to school or outside mental health services

    • Skill-building interventions (social-emotional learning, coping strategies)

The team meets monthly and as needed to review and monitor student plans and determine whether additional support or a transition in services is appropriate.

School & Community Resources

North Hanover Township Schools collaborate with a wide range of support providers including:

  • School-based counseling (monthly SEL lessons and short-term individual/group counseling)

  • Military Family Life Counselors

  • Care Solace mental health referral support

  • External agencies and community services

Our goal is to provide students with timely, compassionate support that promotes their academic and personal success in a safe environment.