Amarillo Board approves nonviolent crisis intervention training led by Jim Ferandi

The San Ysidro Elementary School District Board Meeting on April 10, 2025, spotlighted the critical need for enhanced crisis intervention training among staff, with a focus on the Crisis Prevention Institute's (CPI) Nonviolent Crisis Intervention (NCI) program. The board unanimously agreed to prioritize this training, recognizing its importance in ensuring the safety of both students and staff during crisis situations.

Jen Ferandi, a certified CPI trainer, presented the NCI program, emphasizing its structured approach to managing crises effectively. "CPI certification provides actionable skills and concepts to address each of these topics," Ferandi stated, highlighting how the training equips staff to respond consistently and ethically during moments of crisis. The program is designed to help staff recognize when a student has deviated from their baseline behavior, which can lead to unsafe situations.

The board discussed the necessity of this training for special education personnel, who often face higher risks of encountering crises. Ferandi noted that while the training is particularly beneficial for those working with special needs students, it is applicable to all staff identified by administration based on student needs. "CPI and NCI is best utilized by staff as identified via student needs," she explained.

The meeting also touched on the logistics of the training, which includes both online and in-person components, requiring a minimum of four hours for certification. Ferandi, who has trained staff across five districts over the past 11 years, emphasized the ongoing need for recertification every two years to keep skills current.

As the meeting concluded, the board reaffirmed its commitment to implementing the CPI training, recognizing its potential to foster a safer educational environment. The anticipated outcome is a more prepared staff capable of handling crises effectively, ultimately benefiting the entire school community.