Which of the following best describes the 'Scan' step in the SARA model?

The 'Scan' step in the SARA model is fundamentally about identifying issues within a given environment, which, in this context, relates specifically to a school. This initial stage is critical as it sets the foundation for the entire problem-solving process. During the Scan phase, data is collected and analyzed to determine what issues are most pressing or impactful within the school setting. This could include problems such as bullying, drug use, or vandalism.

Identifying these issues involves community input, observation, and reviewing incident reports to understand the specific challenges that need to be addressed. By pinpointing these issues early on, administrators and law enforcement can focus their efforts on the areas that require immediate attention, making the subsequent stages of the SARA model—the Analysis, Response, and Assessment—more effective.

The relevance of this process cannot be overstated, as a clear understanding of the problems allows stakeholders to engage in a more informed and targeted approach to problem-solving, ultimately leading to improved outcomes in the school environment.