Schools today are forced to navigate an increasing number of social media driven threats, many unverified, anonymous, or intentionally vague. These situations create enormous pressure, often pushing districts toward disruptive decisions such as building closures or lockdowns, even when the credibility of the threat is unclear.

This presentation provides school leaders with a clear, actionable process for evaluating and responding to social media or unknown threats in a way that is measured, defensible, and student-centered.

We will walk through:

• How to quickly assess the credibility and intent behind online threats
• Key indicators that differentiate hoaxes, rumors, and genuine risks
• The most effective way to engage law enforcement early without escalating panic
• Communication strategies that maintain community trust while avoiding unnecessary alarm
• Decision-making frameworks that help schools avoid unnecessary closures
• How to prepare staff and students for these situations through training and expectations
• Real case studies showing what works and what backfires in schools across the country

Participants will leave with a repeatable protocol, sample communication templates, and practical strategies they can implement immediately to support confident, consistent decision-making when social media threats arise.