As you consider investigating our systems, we suggest that you secure a commitment of interest and participation from education, law enforcement and your community's public mental health provider, as well as the judiciary system and youth supervision services if possible. Ours is a collaborative approach and requires multi-agency involvement. The following is a sequential list of challenges you will likely face as you explore threat assessment systems and prepare to develop and implement one in your school district and community:

1. The articulation and justification of need.
2. The authorization and "ownership" of a system by authority.
3. Community ownership, commitment and responsibility.
4. The identification and organization of resources.
5. Systems design and articulation.
6. Training and distribution of information.
7. Maintenance and trouble shooting.