School Safety Today: Recent Episodes
Raptor Technologies
Protecting students and teachers when stepping into school is priority #1. On School Safety Today, a podcast from Raptor Technologies, we'll bring you the technologies and leadership that protects over 35,000 schools across the United States.
Ray Fuller, Coordinator of Threat Assessment and Safety at Texas' Hurst-Euless-Bedford Independent School District, talks threat assessment.
In this episode of School Safety Today by Raptor Technologies, host Dr. Amy Grosso sits down with Dr. Vincent Iturralde, Chief Operations Officer for North Chicago School District 187. Dr. Iturralde shares insights from his educational journey, emphasizing the need for schools to update emergency response protocols, strengthen communication systems, and prioritize collaboration over mere compliance to ensure the safety of students and staff. Through real-world examples, he illustrates the challenges of reunification efforts and underscores the critical role of proactive planning.
KEY POINTS:
- Emergency management is more than drills and compliance—it is critical all stakeholders understand the why.
- Reunification planning is complex and must be practiced and continued to be refined.
- Emergency management is bigger than one person and collaboration is key to success.
Our guest, Dr. Vincent Iturralde is the Chief Operations Officer for North Chicago School District 187 and oversees the district’s operations, security, facilities, and school leadership. Dr. Iturralde has proven experience as an Educational Leadership Consultant, a Transformational Coordinator for North Chicago School District 187, a Leadership Coach for the University of Illinois Center for Urban Education Leadership, and a Part-Time Adjunct Professor at the University of Illinois Urbana/Champaign and Concordia University. Before these positions, Dr. Iturralde was the founding principal of the Tarkington School of Excellence in Chicago, IL. He has his Educational Doctorate and Master of Education from the University of Illinois in Chicago. He was an educator in the Chicago Public Schools system for 20 years as a teacher, technology coordinator and school improvement coordinator. In 2008, Dr. Iturralde became a Leadership Greater Chicago Fellow and, in 2009, received the Re-Generation Award for Excellence in Environmental Education from the U. S. Department of Green Building Council.
In this episode of School Safety Today by Raptor Technologies, host Dr. Amy Grosso interviews Shawn Toadvine, Manager of Student Programs, Client Services, PublicSchoolWORKS. The discussion emphasizes that anonymous reporting is not just a compliance tool but a critical element in school safety and student well-being.
KEY POINTS:
- Fostering a culture of trust is essential for anonymous reporting to work effectively.
- Comprehensive training ensures educators, students, and parents understand how to use the system and the process for follow-up.
- Anonymous reporting addresses not only threats but also student mental health and well-being.
Our guest, Shawn Toadvine is an accomplished professional serving as the Manager of Student Programs at PublicSchoolWORKS since 2013. With a background in theatre, he holds a bachelor’s degree in theatre from Northern Kentucky University and later pursued a master’s degree in educational administration from the University of Cincinnati. Drawing from his experience as an administrator, Shawn brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his role, developing meaningful programs that positively impact students' lives. His dedication to education and commitment to excellence make him an invaluable asset to the Raptor pack!
In this episode of School Safety Today, host Dr. Amy Grosso speaks with Lea Bauer, an expert in threat assessment and protective intelligence. Lea highlights the value of incorporating a student's digital world into threat assessments and offers schools practical guidance and resources for success. She also provides guidance on how to build and maintain trust with various stakeholders.
KEY POINTS:
- Integrating a student's digital world is vital for a thorough behavioral threat assessment.
- Adding a tech-savvy educator to the team ensures the student's digital presence is accurately assessed.
- Building and maintaining trust is essential for sustaining campus safety throughout the threat assessment process.
Our guest, Lea Bauer, brings over 25 years of expertise in threat assessment, protective intelligence, physical security operations, executive protection, and investigations. She is the founder of Bauer S&I Specialists, LLC, a private investigative and security firm serving corporate and individual clients, with a specialized focus on protective intelligence and security solutions for the entertainment industry.
As a consultant for SIGMA, now part of Raptor, Lea provides expert guidance and training in threat assessment and management to K-12 schools, colleges, workplaces, and high-profile individuals and families. A licensed private investigator, she is also an active member of the Association of Threat Assessment Professionals (ATAP) and the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE).
Lea’s impressive career includes her tenure as a Senior Special Agent with the U.S. Secret Service, where she conducted threat assessments, provided physical security, and safeguarded national leaders. She also worked closely with the Department of Defense to deliver training on counterterrorism strategies, including tackling extremist threats and terrorist financing. Before her law enforcement career, Lea was a licensed professional counselor, giving her a unique perspective on human behavior and risk dynamics.
In this episode of School Safety Today, host Dr. Amy Grosso speaks with Michele Gay, co-founder of Safe and Sound Schools, about the critical role of learning from averted school violence incidents. Michele highlights the importance of the Averted School Violence (ASV) Project, a unique resource that collects and analyzes "saves"—instances where school tragedies were successfully prevented.
Drawing on her extensive experience as an educator and advocate, Michele discusses how these prevention stories offer actionable insights that help improve school safety policies and procedures.
KEY POINTS:
- The ASV Project provides essential lessons from incidents where crises were prevented, helping schools refine their safety measures.
- Stories from the ASV Project highlight practical steps schools can take to identify and address potential threats before they escalate.
- Strong relationships between students, staff, and safety teams are at the core of early intervention and effective crisis prevention.
- How to learn more about the ASV Project and Safe and Sound Schools.
Our guest, Michele Gay, mother, educator, and co-founder of Safe and Sound Schools, chose to take action after losing her daughter Josephine Grace on December 14, 2012. Since that time, she has channeled her work as an advocate, improving safety and security in schools and communities across our country. With a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Towson State University, Michele earned her master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from McDaniel College. Prior to the Sandy Hook tragedy, she taught at the elementary level in the Maryland and Virginia public schools. Now a nationally and internationally recognized public speaker, school safety expert, and a regular contributor for print, radio, and television outlets.
As the primary visionary and author of Safe and Sound’s programs and materials, Michele has served as a stakeholder voice in national legislative discussions. Through these works, she continues to build Safe and Sound Schools as a national hub of school safety education, technical assistance, expert content, and best practices. An educator by training — and fueled by the heart of a mother and community member — Michele is uniquely positioned to help others prepare for, prevent, respond to, and recover from tragedies of their own. Remaining inspired by Josephine, every day, she dedicates herself to honoring Josephine’s memory through this work to ensure that every school, every child, and every community is truly safe and sound.
This episode of the School Safety Today podcast, by Raptor Technologies, features an in-depth discussion with Dr. David Diehl, Director of Student and Community Services at Selma Unified School District (CA), about the critical role of preparation in ensuring school safety. Dr. Diehl shares his experiences, including a pivotal crisis incident, and emphasizes how proper planning, technology, and a culture of safety can mitigate risks and enhance crisis responses in schools.
KEY POINTS:
- A well-executed reunification process is critical for the safe return of students to their guardians in crises, reducing the potential for miscommunication or harm.
- Detailed, actionable emergency plans tailored to specific scenarios are essential. They should include realistic drills and role-specific responsibilities for staff.
- Using technology to streamline crisis management through providing real-time student accountability, ensuring efficient communication and deployment of resources during emergencies.
Our guest, Dr. David Diehl, is the Director of Student and Community Services for the Selma Unified School District (CA). He was previously a Coordinator of MTSS and an Assistant Principal for the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District. Before entering education, he retired as a police sergeant after 24 years in law enforcement. Dr. Diehl’s Doctoral research was inspired by the 21 students he lost to gang-related homicides while teaching in a Central California court school. He has worked extensively with system-involved youth in court schools, community day schools, and alternative education settings. A sought-after speaker and published author, Dr. Diehl is a proponent of data-informed interventions prior to 6th grade, along with providing educators with increased awareness into the lives of street-socialized students from marginalized communities. He believes this approach can improve student engagement, increase resilience, and impede future incarceration.
In this episode of School Safety Today by Raptor Technologies, host Dr. Amy speaks with Benjamin S. Fernandez, MS. Ed., School Psychologist about the crucial role of crisis teams in schools. The discussion emphasizes the importance of preparedness, prevention, and relationship-building to effectively manage crises and ensure student wellbeing.
KEY POINTS:
- Crisis teams play a crucial role in prevention, psychological recovery, and long-term support to promote student wellbeing.
- Building trust with students, staff, and families before a crisis occurs is foundational
- Crisis teams focus on addressing mental health and psychological recovery post-crisis, whereas threat assessment teams proactively evaluate and manage potential threats.
Our guest, Benjamin S. Fernandez, MS. Ed., is a seasoned school psychologist with over 28 years of experience in Pennsylvania and Virginia. Currently serving as a crisis intervention specialist in Northern Virginia, he leads and coordinates crisis intervention services. Benjamin has a rich background in providing mental health services, including assessments, suicide screenings, threat assessments, consultation, and counseling. He is a Lead PREPaRE Trainer and has presented on youth suicide, school mental health, and crisis intervention. He has testified before various government bodies and contributed to the Virginia Department of Education’s Suicide Prevention Guidelines. Recognized for his significant contributions, he has received multiple awards, including School Psychologist of the Year by both the Virginia Academy of School Psychologists and the National Association of School Psychologists.
In this episode of School Safety Today by Raptor Technologies, host Dr. Amy Grosso speaks with Melissa Kree about fostering resilience in students. Kree shares insights from her role in student mental health and school safety. The discussion emphasizes the role of trusted adults in supporting students, exploring how resilience involves ongoing support from families, educators, and communities.
KEY POINTS:
- Resilience Requires Intentional Support — Students benefit from consistent support.
- The Importance of Trusted Adult Relationships — Trusted adults play an essential role in helping students navigate difficult experiences and build resilience.
- Holistic Approach to School Safety — Fostering a supportive school culture and positive student well-being are essential for school safety.
Our guest, Melissa Kree is a seasoned school psychologist with over a decade of experience at Oxford Community Schools in Michigan. Since joining the district in October 2012, Kree has worked across all educational levels, from pre-kindergarten through high school. She coordinates building-level Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) teams and oversees special education evaluations. Additionally, she serves as a district-level Individualized Education Program (IEP) coach. Kree is an active member of the district's crisis team and participates in building-level threat and suicide risk assessment teams, utilizing both Behavioral Threat Assessment and Management (BTAM) and PREPaRE models. She has been an ongoing part of Oxford’s response to the tragedy on November 30th, 2021, and works closely with the Executive Director of School Safety, Operational Technology, and Student Services to regularly review and implement policies and procedures, as well as lead building level teams in the implementation as situations arise. She serves on the district mental health/SEL committee and participates in county-level PREPaRE community of practice groups. Beyond her district responsibilities, she serves on the mental health and SEL committee of the Michigan Association of School Psychologists, advocating for the integration of mental health considerations in all aspects of school safety. Residing in Oxford with her husband and two children, Kree is deeply committed to the well-being and safety of her community.
In this episode of School Safety Today by Raptor Technologies, host Dr. Amy Grosso interviews Chief Ronald Applin, Chief of Police at Atlanta Public Schools. The conversation centers around the department's unique approach to law enforcement, focusing on student well-being, mental health, and reducing the school-to-prison pipeline. Chief Applin explains how the department addresses the gap in law enforcement services, with an emphasis on restorative practices and positive behavior interventions, aiming to ensure that students are not criminalized for issues that can be addressed through support and guidance.
KEY POINTS:
- How they use restorative practices to help address issues while holding students accountable for their actions.
- Providing specialized training in mental health first aid, social-emotional learning, and crisis intervention to enable officers to be guardians alongside being a warrior.
- Using an Intervention Specialist to change the trajectory of students' lives.
- Building strong officer relationships with students, often acting as mentors and engaging in non-custodial conversations that help foster trust to increase school safety.
Our guest, Chief Ronald Applin, Chief of Police, Atlanta Public Schools, has over 32 years of law enforcement experience. After completing boot camp for the United States Marine Corps, he served in the Marine Corps Reserves for 6 years. He simultaneously began his career with the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office in 1989 and retired in 2010 at the rank Captain. During his tenure at the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office, he commanded the day-to-day operations of the Law Enforcement Division, SWAT Team, oversaw the implementation of 911 services for the City of Chattahoochee Hills and served as the Venue Commander for the 2008 Brian Nichols Trial. In 2011, he became a faculty member with Reinhardt University Public Safety Institute, where he continues to serve, teaching undergraduate and graduate level criminal justice courses. He also taught in the Law and Justice Program at Creekside High School. His love for public safety led him to accept an offer to serve as the Director of Security at Landmark Christian School in 2013. The experiences gained in this position prepared him for the highlight of his law enforcement career—being selected as the Chief of Police for the newly created Atlanta Public Schools Police Department. As a product of the Atlanta Public School System, Charles Lincoln Harper High School 1986 graduating class, this was a full circle moment for him. Chief Applin earned a Bachelor of Science Social Science in Criminal Justice from Mercer University, Master of Public Administration from Troy University, and has completed all coursework, with the exception of a dissertation, for his PhD in Criminal Justice from Capella University. He is also a graduate of the FBI National Academy 220th Session and a graduate of the inaugural class of Mercer University's Public Safety Leadership Institute. Chief Applin’s leadership and professionalism extend beyond the halls of the schools he serves. He is an active member of the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police (GACP), International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), Georgia Alliance of School Resource Officers and Educators (GASROE) Board of Directors, National Center for School Safety Advisory Board, Landmark Christian School Board of Directors and Atlanta Technical College Criminal Justice Program Advisory Committee, Graduate of the United Way VIP 2021.
In this episode of School Safety Today by Raptor Technologies, host Dr. Amy Grosso sat down with Dr. Stephanie Leite, Senior Threat Manager. Gain valuable insights from her expertise as she delves into behavioral threat assessment, with a particular emphasis on understanding threat assessment in autistic students.
KEY POINTS:
- Recognizing the critical distinction between reactive and targeted violence helps educators better identify and respond to student behaviors without jumping to conclusions.
- Navigating the complexities of conducting threat assessments for autistic students, emphasizing the importance of lifting them up rather than isolating them.
- Successful threat assessments involve collaboration with families, educators, and occupational therapists
Our guest, Dr. Leite is a distinguished forensic psychologist based in Hartford, CT, renowned for delivering high-quality psychological evaluations. She specializes in risk and threat assessments for courts, schools, and workplaces, providing expert insights that inform safety and management strategies. Dr. Leite thrives in training on psychology and risk management, offering her services for case consultations across a spectrum of issues, including child protection, complex psychopathology, fitness for duty, high-conflict divorce, and adolescent behavior. Licensed in Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New York, she consults nationwide.
Dr. Leite is an active member of the American Psychological Association (APA), and the Connecticut Psychological Association, where she served as president of the Forensic Division. She is also a member of the Association of Threat Assessment Professionals (ATAP) and a past president of the New England ATAP chapter, cherishing her role in the global ATAP community. Additionally, she is affiliated with the National Center for Crisis Management and InfraGuard and is a peer reviewer for the Journal of Threat Assessment and Management.
In this episode of “School Safety Today”, host Michelle Dawn Mooney speaks with Lt. Pamela Revels, President of NASRO and Lieutenant of the School Resource Division at the Lee County Sheriff’s Office in Alabama. Drawing from 20 years of experience as an SRO, Lt. Revels highlights the vital role School Resource Officers have in creating safer schools through law enforcement, education, and mentorship. She explains how SROs are not only responsible for crisis response but also for building trust, preventing incidents, and guiding students toward better decisions, all in collaboration with school staff and the broader community.
Key Takeaways:
• Lt. Revels emphasizes the importance of careful selection and comprehensive training for SROs, ensuring they are prepared to meet the unique demands of school environments.
• The SRO Triad Model positions officers as law enforcement, educators, and mentors, allowing them to build trust and intervene before issues escalate.
• SROs play a pivotal role not just in crisis response, but in daily prevention and relationship-building, making schools safer environments for students and staff alike.
Lt. Pamela Revels, originally from Enterprise, Alabama, has served with the Lee County Sheriff's Office since 2004, now holding the position of Lieutenant of the School Resource Division. She holds a bachelor's degree in criminal justice administration and an MBA from Columbia Southern University and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Public Administration at Liberty University. A recognized leader in school safety, Lt. Revels is the President of the National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO) and has led the Alabama Association of School Resource Officers (TAASRO) for 14 years. She holds numerous instructor certifications, including RAD, ALERRT, and Taser, and serves on various local and state committees focused on school safety. Lt. Revels is also a Subject Matter Expert for the U.S. Department of Justice's Collaborative Reform Initiative, contributing to national curriculum development and presentations. She has been honored multiple times, including being named the We Tip National School Resource Officer of the Year twice. Her community work includes educating students on safety and running the Junior Deputy Academy to foster positive interactions between youth and law enforcement.
In this episode of School Safety Today by Raptor Technologies, host Dr. Amy Grosso sat down with Craig Straw, Director of Safety and Emergency Management for Houston Independent School District (HISD). Listen and learn as he shares his experiences and strategies for back-to-school preparations and school safety management.
KEY POINTS:
- Holistic Approach to School Safety to not only prevent active shooter incidents but also prepare for natural disasters, technological hazards, and mental health crises
- The role of training, mental health support, and the involvement of parents in creating a secure environment
- Ongoing training, open communication, and building relationships within the school and external agencies
Our guest, Craig Straw, is the Director of Safety and Emergency Management for Houston Independent School District (HISD), the largest school district in Texas and the eighth largest in the United States. As the first person to hold this position, Craig serves as the top advisor to the HISD Chief of Police and the Superintendent of Schools. His role encompasses managing strategic, operational, and tactical emergency operation plans, standard response protocols, and school safety audits. He is also responsible for training staff in daily operations, including mitigation, prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery during emergencies. Craig's career in school safety began after a distinguished 27-year tenure in the United States Air Force, where he retired as a Chief Master Sergeant. His military experience and passion for service led him to transition into school safety roles in Clear Creek ISD and Texas City ISD before joining HISD. Craig holds a Bachelor of Science in Professional Aeronautics from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and has earned certifications in Crime Prevention through Environmental Design and Infrastructure Protection from Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service. Craig is also a dedicated member of The “I Love U Guys” Foundation Board and the National Center for Spectator Sport Safety and Security Board. He is actively involved in the International Association of Emergency Managers, serving on the K-12 Caucus, where he continues to advocate for and contribute to the field of school safety. Craig's commitment to school safety is driven by his belief in both the moral and legal responsibility to protect every life on campus every day.
In this episode of School Safety Today by Raptor Technologies Michelle Dawn Mooney sat down with special guest, TJ Markland, General Manager of PayK12. Pay K12 is a cloud-based software platform that provides districts, schools, and departments within, one digital hub for managing school payments and funds. In this episode, we’ll discuss how schools can reduce risks and improve efficiency in school payments.
Key Takeaways:
• Streamlining Payments: Consolidating all school payments into one platform reduces inefficiencies and strengthens financial security across departments.
• Unified Transaction Management: Leveraging technology to manage both cash and credit transactions on a unified platform enhances transparency and security.
• Emerging Trends: Data interoperability helps schools streamline processes, reduce manual tasks, and improve financial management efficiency.
TJ Markland is a recognized expert in school system payments and the General Manager of PayK12, a cloud-based software platform designed to streamline school payments and financial management. With over five years of experience at PayK12, TJ has played a pivotal role in expanding the platform's capabilities, particularly focusing on reducing risks and improving efficiency in school payment systems. Before joining PayK12, TJ worked for a payments company that built its own payment gateway for vertically integrated SaaS (Software as a Service), helping companies easily accept payments. Under TJ's leadership, PayK12 has grown significantly, now serving over 5,000 administrators across 23 states. PayK12 has recently become part of the Raptor Technologies family, allowing the integration of payment systems with safety and security features, further enhancing the offerings for school districts.
In today’s episode of School Safety Today by Raptor Technologies, join host Dr. Amy Grosso as she sits down with Michael Matthews, the Director of Operations for the Fairview Park City School District in the Greater Cleveland Area. Together, they discuss the crucial preparations and strategies necessary for ensuring a safe return to school for students and staff.
KEY POINTS:
- The importance of balancing physical safety measures with the well-being of students and staff
- Implementing small, manageable changes over time rather than overwhelming staff with large-scale reform
- The critical role of engaging the entire school community, including staff and local agencies
Our guest, Michael Matthews, is the Director of Operations for the Fairview Park City School District in the Greater Cleveland Area. Michael oversees all operational aspects of the district, including business affairs and human resources. With fifteen years of experience as an Elementary Principal and Associate Middle School Principal and eight years as an Elementary Teacher, Michael is dedicated to prioritizing the well-being of students and staff in every decision, ensuring that all stakeholders have the essential tools for success.
In today’s episode of School Safety Today by Raptor Technologies, join host Dr. Amy Grosso as she sits down with Michael Matthews, the Director of Operations for the Fairview Park City School District in the Greater Cleveland Area. Together, they discuss the crucial preparations and strategies necessary for ensuring a safe return to school for students and staff.
KEY POINTS:
- The importance of balancing physical safety measures with the well-being of students and staff
- Implementing small, manageable changes over time rather than overwhelming staff with large-scale reform
- The critical role of engaging the entire school community, including staff and local agencies
Our guest, Michael Matthews, is the Director of Operations for the Fairview Park City School District in the Greater Cleveland Area. Michael oversees all operational aspects of the district, including business affairs and human resources. With fifteen years of experience as an Elementary Principal and Associate Middle School Principal and eight years as an Elementary Teacher, Michael is dedicated to prioritizing the well-being of students and staff in every decision, ensuring that all stakeholders have the essential tools for success.
In this episode of School Safety Today by Raptor Technologies Michelle Dawn Mooney sat down with special guest, Carrie Mockler, the Vice President of Operations at PublicSchoolWORKS, a Raptor Technologies company. PublicSchoolWORKS
is a fully automated, all-in-one learning management system for online training for school staff and a comprehensive risk management program.
Key Takeaways:
• Why having a Safety and Compliance Program is important.
• How to create a sustainable solution in an ever-changing landscape.
• How to get buy-in from staff who are already overwhelmed with initiatives.
In her 15 years at PSW, Carrie Mockler has transformed it into the K-12 safety and wellness trailblazer it is today. Carrie has been described as a people-centric leader and the heartbeat of the organization, and in her time there, she has built an infrastructure that ensures long-term positive outcomes for teachers, staff, and students.
In today’s episode of School Safety Today by Raptor Technologies, join host Dr. Amy Grosso as she sits down with Officer Meg Soultz, Co-Founder of Rescue in Color. Together, they delve into the vital collaboration between law enforcement and school districts to enhance school safety. Meg shares insights from her diverse career in public safety, emphasizing the importance of building relationships and addressing gaps in the system to ensure a safe educational environment.
KEY POINTS:
- The unique role of school resource officers (SROs) in bridging the gap between law enforcement and education.
- The significance of having MOUs to allow for information sharing between schools and law enforcement to support students' mental health and wellbeing.
- The initiative of Rescue in Color, a color-coded kit to help educators and staff respond effectively to bleeding control from traumatic injuries.
Our guest, Meg Soultz, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this discussion. Meg began her career in public safety as an EMT while earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology at DePauw University, where she also distinguished herself as a collegiate athlete, recently inducted into the Athletics Hall of Fame for her achievements in softball. Meg furthered her education with a Master’s Degree in Biology from the IUPUI Purdue School of Science. Her professional journey includes work as a paramedic in diverse settings—rural, urban, and suburban—gathering 15 years of EMS experience at Putnam County Operation Life and Indianapolis EMS. In addition to her fieldwork, Meg served as a full-time EMS Educator. Her dedication to public safety led her to become a tactical medic for the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department’s SWAT Team and Bomb Squad. This role sparked her interest in law enforcement, culminating in her transition to a full-time position at the Carmel Police Department in Carmel, IN. At Carmel PD, Meg earned a spot on the SWAT team, specializing in less lethal gas munitions and serving as a sergeant in the Carmel Police School Resource Unit. Additionally, she co-founded Rescue in Color, an innovative initiative focused on bleeding control.
In today’s episode of School Safety Today by Raptor Technologies, join host Dr. Amy Grosso as she sits down with Officer Meg Soultz, Co-Founder of Rescue in Color. Together, they delve into the vital collaboration between law enforcement and school districts to enhance school safety. Meg shares insights from her diverse career in public safety, emphasizing the importance of building relationships and addressing gaps in the system to ensure a safe educational environment.
KEY POINTS:
- The unique role of school resource officers (SROs) in bridging the gap between law enforcement and education.
- The significance of having MOUs to allow for information sharing between schools and law enforcement to support students' mental health and wellbeing.
- The initiative of Rescue in Color, a color-coded kit to help educators and staff respond effectively to bleeding control from traumatic injuries.
Our guest, Meg Soultz, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this discussion. Meg began her career in public safety as an EMT while earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology at DePauw University, where she also distinguished herself as a collegiate athlete, recently inducted into the Athletics Hall of Fame for her achievements in softball. Meg furthered her education with a Master’s Degree in Biology from the IUPUI Purdue School of Science. Her professional journey includes work as a paramedic in diverse settings—rural, urban, and suburban—gathering 15 years of EMS experience at Putnam County Operation Life and Indianapolis EMS. In addition to her fieldwork, Meg served as a full-time EMS Educator. Her dedication to public safety led her to become a tactical medic for the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department’s SWAT Team and Bomb Squad. This role sparked her interest in law enforcement, culminating in her transition to a full-time position at the Carmel Police Department in Carmel, IN. At Carmel PD, Meg earned a spot on the SWAT team, specializing in less lethal gas munitions and serving as a sergeant in the Carmel Police School Resource Unit. Additionally, she co-founded Rescue in Color, an innovative initiative focused on bleeding control.
In this episode of School Safety Today by Raptor Technologies Michelle Dawn Mooney sat down with special guest, Pat Hamilton, the new executive director of The “I Love U Guys” Foundation, who discusses his extensive background in school safety, the history and impact of the Foundation, and the future initiatives aimed at enhancing safety protocols and programs in schools.
Key Takeaways:
- Journey of Pat and The “I Love U Guys” Foundation
- Adoption and Impact of Response and Reunification Protocols
- Future Foundation Focus: Classroom-Level Training for Teachers and Students
- Integration of Technology in Emergency Response Communications
With his 23-year tenure at Adams 12 Five Star Schools and new role as the Executive Director of The “I Love U Guys” Foundation, Pat Hamilton demonstrates a strong commitment to enhancing school safety. His involvement with The "I Love U Guys" Foundation since 2008 underscores his dedication to creating safe learning environments and protecting the joy of youth. Pat's knowledge of school safety is evident through his contributions to the Standard Response Protocol (SRP) and the Standard Reunification Method (SRM), which earned him the moniker "grandfather of reunification," an acknowledgment that reflects his contributions to school safety. The dedication Pat exhibits to enhancing the safety of schools, districts, departments, agencies, organizations, and communities around the world establishes him as a respected leader for The "I Love U Guys" Foundation as it moves forward.
In this episode of School Safety Today by Raptor Technologies Michelle Dawn Mooney sat down with special guest, Pat Hamilton, the new executive director of The “I Love U Guys” Foundation, who discusses his extensive background in school safety, the history and impact of the Foundation, and the future initiatives aimed at enhancing safety protocols and programs in schools.
Key Takeaways:
- Journey of Pat and The “I Love U Guys” Foundation
- Adoption and Impact of Response and Reunification Protocols
- Future Foundation Focus: Classroom-Level Training for Teachers and Students
- Integration of Technology in Emergency Response Communications
With his 23-year tenure at Adams 12 Five Star Schools and new role as the Executive Director of The “I Love U Guys” Foundation, Pat Hamilton demonstrates a strong commitment to enhancing school safety. His involvement with The "I Love U Guys" Foundation since 2008 underscores his dedication to creating safe learning environments and protecting the joy of youth. Pat's knowledge of school safety is evident through his contributions to the Standard Response Protocol (SRP) and the Standard Reunification Method (SRM), which earned him the moniker "grandfather of reunification," an acknowledgment that reflects his contributions to school safety. The dedication Pat exhibits to enhancing the safety of schools, districts, departments, agencies, organizations, and communities around the world establishes him as a respected leader for The "I Love U Guys" Foundation as it moves forward.
In today’s episode of School Safety Today by Raptor Technologies, join host Dr. Amy Grosso as she sits down with Dr. Allison Willemin, Executive Director of School Safety, Operational Technology, and Student Services at Oxford Community Schools, Michigan. Together, they delve into the crucial topic of school safety during the summer months, focusing on practical strategies for preparing for the new school year.
KEY POINTS:
- The importance of aligning priorities with district goals while focusing on manageable small steps
- The need for collaboration across different departments, as well as city and county agencies
- Continuous training and engagement with staff allow for school safety to be part of the school climate
- Go-to places for school safety resources. Where to start, websites, organizations, and associations
Dr. Allison Willemin earned her Doctor of Education in Professional Leadership, Inquiry, and Transformation from Concordia University. She also holds a Master of School Administration from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke and a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Oakland University. Dr. Willemin has dedicated her career to children's education and remains a lifelong learner. Her extensive experience spans various roles within school districts in North Carolina and Texas, and she currently serves as the Executive Director of School Safety, Operational Technology, and Student Services at Oxford Community Schools in Michigan. She holds numerous certifications across multiple educational disciplines.
In this episode of School Safety Today by Raptor Technologies, Michelle Dawn Mooney sat down with Dr. Marisa Randazzo to discuss the importance of continuous improvement in threat assessment practices. Dr. Randazzo shares her extensive experience in threat assessment, emphasizing the importance of quality training and to regularly evaluate and enhance their threat assessment processes to prevent violence and address potential threats effectively.
Key Takeaways:
- Behavioral threat assessment is a critical, evidence-based process used by schools to evaluate and mitigate potential threats
- Quality training by experienced professionals is critical for effective behavior threat assessment and management
- The need for continuous improvement in threat assessment practices due to frequent turnover in school personnel and the evolving nature of threats
Dr. Marisa Randazzo is the Executive Director for Threat Assessment at Raptor Technologies. She brings extensive expertise and experience in threat assessment, threat management, school shootings, and other types of targeted violence and protective intelligence investigations. Previously, she co-founded and led SIGMA Threat Management Associates LLC and served as Executive Director of Threat Management at Ontic. Dr. Randazzo also served for ten years with the U.S. Secret Service, eventually as the agency's Chief Research Psychologist where she co-directed the Safe School Initiative and co-developed the NTAC model, also known as the “federal model” for school threat assessment. Dr. Randazzo is a recognized author of four influential books on threat assessment in educational settings, widely referenced in federal guides and national standards. She holds a Ph.D. and Master's degree from Princeton University and a B.A. from Williams College in Psychology and Religion. Currently, she also serves as Director of Threat Assessment for Georgetown University.
In this episode of School Safety Today by Raptor Technologies, Michelle Dawn Mooney sat down with Adam Coughran, President, Safe Kids, Inc. During the conversation, they discussed proactive strategies for preventing violence in schools, focusing on the importance of communication channels within schools, behavioral awareness, and community involvement to aid in early detection and intervention.
In today’s episode of School Safety Today by Raptor Technologies, host Dr. Amy Grosso sat down with Heilit Biehl, Director of Judicial Services, Jeffco Public Schools in Jefferson County Colorado, Board of Directors Vice-Chair for the “I Love U Guys” Foundation and President of the Rocky Mountain chapter of the Association of Threat Assessment Professionals (ATAP). During the conversation, they discussed the significance and practical application of behavioral threat assessment within schools. Additionally, they explored resources available to those responsible for overseeing threat assessment processes.
KEY POINTS:
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Learn practical strategies and resources for improving threat assessment processes
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How early detection and intervention through threat assessments can prevent escalation
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Understand ways to facilitate transparent communication with parents and guardians
Guest Heilit Biehl serves on the Board of Directors for the “I Love U Guys” Foundation as Vice-Chair and is the President of the Rocky Mountain chapter of the Association of Threat Assessment Professionals (ATAP). She has worked in education for over 15 years with 10 of those years at colleges and universities in Colorado, Florida, and Utah. While in Higher Ed, she worked in Residence Life, Crisis Response, Case Management, and led a Behavior Intervention/CARE team. Heilit also trains school districts on the Adams County Threat Assessment Protocol (Pre K-12) Heilit is also a board delegate and Scholarship Chair for the Colorado Association of Latino/Latina Administrators & Superintendents (CO-ALAS).
In this episode of School Safety Today by Raptor Technologies, Michelle Dawn Mooney sat down with Bruce Canal, Executive Lead for K-12 / Higher Education at Genetec, Inc. During the conversation, they focused on several critical aspects of enhancing safety in educational environments.
Key Takeaways:
• The formation and importance of Threat Assessment teams
• The role of analytics and AI in school safety
• The significance of access control and school security culture
Bruce A. Canal, CPP, has been in the school security environment for over 25 years, most of which as an end user. He is the Executive Lead for K-12 / Higher Education at Genetec, Inc. In this capacity, he is responsible for developing and driving business strategy for the education vertical, driving brand awareness, and cultivating partnership and end-user relationships. As a subject matter expert in education, he is involved in many education-related initiatives. Bruce is the former director of physical security for the 8th largest school district in the United States, Orange County Public Schools in Orlando, FL. His first career was serving as an officer for the Indiana State Police before accepting his first school director assignment. He is accredited by ASIS International as a Certified Protection Professional and is an active member of the “School Safety and Security” community. Bruce also sits on the ASIS Foundation Scholarship Committee, is a technology committee member of the Partnership Alliance for Safer Schools (PASS K-12), sits on the board of Zero Now for higher education, and is an active member of the National School Resource Officers Association. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from Indiana University and an MBA from Indiana Wesleyan University.
In today’s episode of School Safety Today by Raptor Technologies, host Dr. Amy Grosso sat down with Bree Borgsteadt, LCSW-S, Director of Outpatient Services at Georgetown Behavioral Health Institute. During the conversation, they discussed Self-Injury Awareness Month and the importance of understanding, identifying, and addressing self-injury among students.
KEY POINTS:
• The concept of self-injury, differentiating it from suicidal behaviors
• Misconceptions and stigmas surrounding self-injury
• How educators and school staff can support students dealing with self-injury
Guest Bree Borgsteadt, LCSW-S, Director of Outpatient Services at Georgetown Behavioral Health Institute, specializes in intensive outpatient and partial hospitalization services for adolescents and adults. Her work includes developing non-suicidal self-injury protocols for a large school district, showcasing her commitment to supporting individuals through difficulties toward recovery.
In today’s episode of School Safety Today by Raptor Technologies, Michelle Dawn Mooney sat down with Matias Klein, Founder & CEO of Kognition AI. During the conversation, they discussed leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance security in educational settings. Matias shares his journey from aspiring healthcare professional to tech entrepreneur, emphasizing the role of AI in preemptively identifying and mitigating security threats, such as unauthorized access or active shooters, to ensure the safety of schools and other educational facilities.
Key Takeaways:
• How artificial intelligence works in conjunction with existing security infrastructure and systems to enhance school safety.
• Ways to shift security measures from reactive to proactive and identify potential threats before they escalate.
• The role technology integrations have in optimizing emergency management and communication in response to various incidents.
Guest Matias Klein is the Founder and CEO of Kognition AI. Matias is a visionary entrepreneur and innovator with a long and successful track record of launching groundbreaking new software solutions. Most recently Matias was Vice President of Product Management at McKesson where he was responsible for driving growth and innovation in a $1B financial services software portfolio. Prior to McKesson, Matias was SVP of Technology and led R&D and technology operations at Portico Systems, which McKesson acquired for $90M. Matias joined Portico's leadership team when they acquired his first startup, Ethidium Health Systems.
In today’s episode of School Safety Today by Raptor Technologies, host Dr. Amy Grosso sat down with Angela Lee, Director of Love Is Respect at the National Domestic Hotline. During the conversation, they discussed Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month and the significance of educators understanding the signs of unhealthy relationships and teen dating violence so they can recognize and address them effectively.
KEY POINTS:
• The widespread issue of teen dating abuse
• Educating youth about healthy relationships
• The importance of adult support in preventing dating violence
Guest Angela Lee is the Director of Love is Respect at the National Domestic Violence Hotline, where she has worked for nearly 13 years. With over two decades of experience in the social justice field, including substance abuse, behavioral health, sexual assault, and support for at-risk youth, Lee has dedicated her career to empowering young people to establish and maintain healthy, respectful relationships. Her work at Love is Respect focuses on preventing intimate partner violence through education, support, and resources aimed at young people and their allies.
School Safety Today podcast, presented by Raptor Technologies.
In today’s episode of School Safety Today by Raptor Technologies, Michelle Dawn Mooney sat down with Jamison Peevyhouse, VP of Public Safety, RapidSOS. During the conversation, they discuss enhancing emergency response outcomes by securely linking life-saving data from connected devices directly to emergency services.
Key Takeaways:
• E911 Data Enhancement: Provides precise location and contextual information for quicker, more effective emergency responses in schools.
• Technology in School Safety: How the use of integrated technology, like sensors and campus maps in conjunction with enriched E911 data, leads to improved student and staff safety.
• Collaboration with Emergency Communication Centers (ECCs): How schools and districts can work with ECCs to improve safety protocols and ensure coordinated emergency responses for better outcomes.
Guest Jamison Peevyhouse is the VP of Public Safety at RapidSOS. With over 25 years of experience in public safety and 9-1-1 operations, Jamison has a long history of public service. Starting as a telecommunicator on the midnight shift, Jamison continued to serve as a trainer, supervisor, and director of operations. More recently, he served as the Statewide Training Coordinator for Tennessee, where he helped to meet the needs of the state’s 2,400+ telecommunicators. He is also a Past President of the National Emergency Number Association. Jamison’s commitment to servant-based leadership and communication skills receive many awards, including TN-APCO Director of the Year, the Senator Joe Haynes Award for Excellence, and the NENA Hall of Fame. Jamison’s life-long passion is growing a culture of compassion and collaboration within public safety organizations. He currently serves as Vice President of Public Safety for RapidSOS, which delivers life-saving customer data from 450 million devices to 9-1-1 Centers across the U.S.
In today’s episode of School Safety Today by Raptor Technologies, host Dr. Amy Grosso sat down with Annabelle Thomson, Program Specialist with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children’s (NCMEC) Child Sex Trafficking Team, to discuss the nature and scope of child sex trafficking, misconceptions and warning signs in children, the role of educators and communities in prevention and support, as well as free resources available to help schools proactively combat this growing problem.
KEY POINTS:
• Human trafficking includes child sex trafficking and happens across the country.
• Educators play a crucial role in identifying and supporting potential victims. Warning signs include changes in behavior, unexplained possessions, and periods of missing from home or school.
• Community and school engagement, understanding students' backgrounds, and providing a safe, supportive environment.
Guest Annabelle Thomson is the Program Specialist with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children’s (NCMEC) Child Sex Trafficking Team. Previously, Ms. Thomson served as an anti-trafficking subject matter expert and logistics coordinator with the national SOAR to Health and Wellness Training under the National Human Trafficking Training and Technical Assistance Center (NHTTAC) which is funded by the Department of Health and Human Services Office on Trafficking in Persons.
In today’s episode of School Safety Today by Raptor Technologies, Michelle Dawn Mooney sat down with Natalie Mactier, CEO of Vivi International. Natalie discusses the evolution of classroom technology into an integrated school safety communication system that includes:
• Highly targeted emergency notifications and integrations with other security systems, enhancing campus safety and situational awareness.
• Using visual alerts in school safety strategies that ensure inclusivity for all students and staff, regardless of language fluency or auditory abilities.
• Customizable templates for various emergencies, like natural disasters or campus intruders ─ aligned with standard response protocols.
Guest Natalie Mactier is the Chief Executive Officer for Vivi International Pty Ltd. Her leadership has guided the development of Vivi into a multifaceted communication tool that enhances classroom learning and plays a crucial role in campus-wide emergency response systems.
She is also on the board of Webcentral Ltd. and WebCentral Group Pty Ltd. In the past, she occupied the position of Chief Executive Officer at School Places Pty Ltd., Manager-Public Relations at SEEK Ltd., Manager-National Sales at Europcar Mobility Group SA, Chief Executive Officer of Kidspot.com.au Pty Ltd., and Principal at Ansett Airlines.
In today’s episode of School Safety Today by Raptor Technologies, host Dr. Amy Grosso sat down with Kenya Haynes, Program Specialist at the National Center for Homeless to discuss the complexities surrounding the issue of students experiencing homelessness and the educational strategies required to address these challenges effectively.
• The critical role of local homeless education liaisons in school districts with students experiencing homelessness.
• The critical role of local homeless education liaisons in school districts to identify students experiencing homelessness and ensure they receive the necessary support to continue their education.
• The need for empathy, compassion, and individualized attention in supporting these students.
Guest Kenya Haynes is a program specialist at the National Center for Homeless Education. An educator for 25 years, she joined NCHE in 2018 after sixteen years at the Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) where she focused her energy on working with vulnerable student populations. During her tenure at WDE, she worked with homeless education, dropout prevention, juvenile justice, gender equity, civil rights, school accreditation, gifted and talented education, homeschooling, Title I, and the state system of support. She is honored to have served on the board of the National Association for the Education of Homeless Children and Youth and as liaison to the National Expert Panel for the Education of Children and Youth Who Are Neglected, Delinquent, or At-Risk.
In today’s episode of School Safety Today by Raptor Technologies, host Dr. Amy Grosso sat down with Liz Nowland-Margolis, Executive Director of School Safety and District Operations for Ann Arbor Public Schools for part two of a two-part series on proactive student wellbeing through early intervention to discuss the importance of:
• Proactive approaches to school safety, including early interventions for student wellbeing and the balance between hardening school infrastructure and maintaining a welcoming environment.
• Implementation and significance of comprehensive assessment tools like the CSTAG and the Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale, underscoring their role in early identification and support for students at risk.
• Collaboration among school staff, law enforcement, and mental health services, as well as engaging and educating parents and the community about school safety protocols.
Guest Liz Nolan-Margolis is an experienced professional with a background in marketing, communications, public relations, crisis planning, management, and response, as well as strategic planning. She has worked in both for-profit and not-for-profit sectors. Currently, she serves as the Executive Director of School Safety and District Operations for Ann Arbor Public Schools. Liz has extensive experience in crisis management, including response training, communication response, crisis response team development, and on-site crisis response leadership. Her role involves a strong focus on school safety, implementing programs, and balancing safety initiatives with the educational environment.
In today’s episode of School Safety Today by Raptor Technologies, host Dr. Amy Grosso sat down with Dr. Frank Straub, Senior Director of Violence Prevention Research and Programs at Safe and Sound Schools and Co-Director of the “Protect 2 Prevent” project for part one of a two-part series on proactive student wellbeing through early intervention to discuss the importance of:
• The inception and development of the “Protect 2 Prevent” program at Michigan State University, aimed at early intervention to prevent acts of violence.
• The multidisciplinary approach involving experts in the areas of psychiatry, criminology, health professionals, educators, and targeted violence experts.
• The importance of community and caregiver involvement in changing the life trajectory of high-risk adolescents towards positive and pro-social activities.
Guest Dr. Frank Straub is the Senior Director of Violence Prevention Research and Programs at Safe and Sound Schools and Co-Director of the “Protect 2 Prevent” project. He has an extensive background in law enforcement and violence prevention, serving as the founder and director of the National Policing Institute's Center for Targeted Violence Prevention and as an adjunct professor at Michigan State University. A licensed clinical psychologist with a Ph.D. in criminal justice, he's recognized for his work in youth violence prevention, improving police-community relations, and enhancing police response to mental health challenges.
In today’s episode of School Safety Today by Raptor Technologies, host Michelle Dawn Mooney sat down with Missy Dodds, speaker and trainer for Safe and Sound Schools, a national non-profit school safety advocacy and resource center. They discussed the pivotal role parents play in advocating for and ensuring the safety of their children within the educational environment and how schools can strengthen the school-parent partnership to enhance safety.
Key Takeaways:
• Ways to build an effective school-parent partnership around school safety.
• How schools can offer tools and resources to parents to educate them about school safety and mental health support.
• Opportunities for collaborative relationship building with community organizations to enhance the support they offer to parents.
Missy also shared her personal experience of being a high school math teacher when a school shooting occurred on March 21, 2005. She discusses the traumatic events of that day and the years of healing, including dealing with PTSD.
In honor of National Bullying Prevention Month, School Safety Today by Raptor Technologies, host Dr. Amy Grosso sat down with Carolyn Jennings-Brown, Founder and Program Director of “Hey Dude, Nice Shoes” to discuss the importance of:
•Raising awareness about bullying and shifting the focus from merely identifying the problem to finding solutions and promoting kindness.
•How bullying has evolved over the years, especially due to the influence of social media and technology.
•Setting clear standards of behavior for children, to create safe spaces for communication, and to model pro-kindness behavior, as well as celebrating and appreciating children for who they are.
Guest Carolyn Jennings Brown is a dedicated advocate and motivational speaker for anti-bullying and pro-kindness initiatives. She travels across the United States to deliver her presentation, "Hey Dude, Nice Shoes" to students and parents, impacting thousands of lives each year. She also received the National PTA Lifetime Achievement Award for her contributions to school safety and mental health awareness.
Student suicide prevention is a paramount concern among mental health providers. For one organization, student suicide prevention is more than a concern: it’s their mission.
The alarming rise in mental health crises among youth has become a pressing concern in recent times. With the complexities of modern life and the challenges of the digital age, young individuals are more susceptible to mental health issues than ever before. A startling statistic reveals that in 2019, suicide was the second leading cause of death for individuals between the ages of 10 and 34. This alarming statistic underscores the pressing need for comprehensive strategies and interventions to address the mental health crisis among young Americans.
How can we effectively address and destigmatize mental health issues, especially among marginalized communities? The Defensive Line’s mission is to end the epidemic of youth suicide, especially for people of color, by transforming how we communicate and connect about mental health.
In this episode of School Safety Today by Raptor Technologies, host Dr. Amy Grosso sat down with Chris and Martha Thomas from The Defensive Line to shed light on the rise and stigma of mental health crisis among youth and discussed the following:
• The necessity to destigmatize some of the myths about mental health, mental illness, and suicide, particularly in marginalized communities of color
• The vital role educators and communities play in recognizing the warning signs of mental health issues and suicide ideation among youth
• The urgent need to provide educational programs and workshops and advocate for a collaborative approach to understand the complete picture and help the person in need
Chris and Martha Thomas are the co-founders of The Defensive Line, dedicating themselves to suicide prevention and mental health awareness in the wake of a personal tragedy. Their endeavors span various platforms, including educational workshops and keynote speeches, aiming to foster environments of understanding and support. The couple has received recognition for their relentless work, including the 2019 AFSP Lifesaver Award.
School Safety Today podcast, presented by Raptor Technologies.
In today’s episode of School Safety Today by Raptor Technologies, host Michelle Dawn Mooney sat down with John-Michael Keyes, executive director and co-founder of the “I Love U Guys” Foundation to shed light on their mission, collaboration, and unique approach to training, all aimed at protecting the joy of youth. During the podcast, they discussed the following:
•The development and implementation of the Standard Response Protocol, a shared vocabulary between students, staff, and the first responders for school safety.
•Challenges and strategies for reunification of students with parents after a crisis while maintaining accountability and mental health support.
•The Foundation’s unique approach to training with insights from trainers having personal experience in crisis.
The “I Love U Guys” Foundation, was established in 2006 after John-Michael and his wife, Ellen, lost their daughter, Emily to a tragic school shooting, Emily's last text messages that day were, “I love U Guys, K” to her mother, and ”I Love U Guys” to her father, which became the catalyst for their mission to restore and protect the joy of youth through educational programs and positive actions in collaboration with families, school, communities, and government entities.
School Safety Today podcast, presented by Raptor Technologies.
In today’s episode of School Safety Today by Raptor Technologies, host Michelle Dawn Mooney sat down with Mark Ruiters, Founder of SchoolPass and Chief Strategy Officer at Raptor Technologies to shed light on the benefits and challenges of private schools automating campus operations through adopting transformative technology and discussed the following:
• The unique challenges private schools face and the impact of technology and modernization on campus operations.
• The value of schools automating the normal day-to-day campus operations that happen so they can proactively focus on the exceptions that can lead to potential safety and security issues.
• How the recent acquisition of SchoolPass by Raptor Technologies will make it easier for school administrators to adopt transformative campus technology that works to make schools safer each day.
Mark Ruiters brings a wealth of knowledge and experience. His work at IBM as a system architect and his involvement with his children’s school led him to the inception of SchoolPass. More recently, he has joined Raptor Technologies as their Chief Strategy Officer.
The rise in adolescent suicides is an alarming trend, gaining global attention in recent years. Youth and young adults ages 10-24 comprise 15% of suicide deaths in the United States and are the second leading cause of death amongst this age group. Amidst these grim statistics, the essential role of educational institutions in suicide prevention is now more pertinent than ever, with educators enlisted to embrace a preventative, proactive approach to fostering a safer environment for their students. Schools recognized the need to address student mental health during the pandemic.
How can schools effectively intervene in this escalating crisis? What changes in approach and understanding are necessary to make schools integral players in suicide prevention?
In today’s episode of School Safety Today by Raptor Technologies, host Michelle Dawn Mooney sat down with Dr. Amy Grosso, Mental Health Consultant, to shed light on this vital issue. The pair discussed comprehensively saving young lives and a school’s role in adolescent suicide prevention.
Mooney and Grosso’s conversation includes the following:
•The importance of a holistic approach to suicide prevention and the actionable steps schools can implement to bolster their existing protocols.
•The necessary shift in perception regarding mental health in schools, broadening the understanding of what constitutes suicide prevention work.
•The value of collaboration between social workers and law enforcement in handling mental health crises in schools, and the challenges and benefits of integrating these two professions.
Dr. Amy Grosso brings with her a wealth of knowledge and experience. Her background involves a Ph.D. in counseling and counselor education and a history as a mental health counselor. More recently, she has worked with a school district to develop suicide protocols and threat assessment procedures, even creating a model of school policing where social workers and police work together. Highly active with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention for the past five years, Dr. Grosso also serves on their national chapter leadership board, working to help others understand that suicide is preventable and what education is needed.
According to Education Week's school shooting tracker, there have been 18 school shootings this year alone. With the increasing number of these violent incidents, what’s being done to make schools safer?
School Safety Today’s host, Michelle Dawn Mooney, is joined by Max Schachter, the Founder of Safe Schools for Alex, to discuss his advocation for policy change to better safeguard students. Schachter’s youngest son Alex was one of the 17 victims of the 2018 Parkland school shooting. Since then, Schachter channeled his pain to be a national school safety advocate. He discusses what his organization does to ensure school safety and what their goals are now and for the future.
Listen to today’s podcast to learn:
•New policies at the state and federal levels focused on safer educational settings
•How to use data to reduce violence in school communities
•Recommendations for how district leaders and law enforcement officials can work best together
Schachter was appointed to the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Commission where they were tasked with investigating and analyzing information from the Parkland school shooting to develop recommendations to prioritize safety and security in schools. He highlights the successes in working with the Florida Department of Education to create data points that school districts and parents can use to make informed decisions and policies about school safety. The collaboration was the impetus for the School Safety Dashboard where districts, parents and all stakeholders can access this data on a user-friendly platform to help create a safer environment for all.
Some other developments that have come from the commission include the creation of an Office of School Safety, a school safety specialist in every Florida district, an anonymous threat reporting system statewide, a panic app for teachers, a threat assessment team, and a mental health coordinator in all Florida school districts.
Additionally, Schachter pushes for law enforcement to prioritize preparedness and training. “You can’t start the process in the middle of a tragedy or after a tragedy. Now, law enforcement has access to cameras in an emergency. There are reunification plans in place and we now have mandatory active shooter drills on all campuses…and a minimum of at least one, armed officer on every campus throughout the entire state.”
Max Scratcher is the Founder and Executive Director of Safe Schools for Alex. He’s one of the nation’s leading school safety advocates, serving as a corporate and governmental advisor on matters related to school shootings and security. Schachter works alongside members of Congress, leaders of federal agencies, and Presidents of the United States which has led to the creation of the Federal School Safety Clearinghouse at SchoolSafety.gov. He’s interviewed with many media outlets including CNN, MSNBC, Fox, and ABC.
Student safety has been a major topic in the last few years as more violent acts have occurred on school grounds. While some of it happens after school hours, student safety is still under threat, and the ways we combat this danger has room to improve. So how are schools ensuring student safety and improving their ways of maintaining a safe space for all?
On this episode of School Safety Today, host Michelle Dawn Mooney speaks with Chris Hendrickson of Las Vegas, Nevada. Hendrickson was a responding officer to the Route 91 Harvest Festival massacre in 2017; this traumatic event made Hendrickson think better methods can be used for managing accountability during a crisis.
“Because of the chaotic nature of that event, there was a lot of people that were considered missing for a long period of time, and there really wasn’t an easy way to account for those event participants,” says Hendrickson. “If law enforcement was afforded the ability to get the information from the ticket sales, we could have at least been able to create a list of who was there, who had left, and who was missing at that time.”
More recently, Hendrickson has become the Director of Safety and Security at The Alexander Dawson School independent private school in Las Vegas. On ensuring student safety, Hendrickson stated, “We have upgraded our security and surveillance systems a lot since I’ve started. We’ve added more cameras, more analytical cameras, AI for our surveillance systems; we conduct regular drills to increase that muscle memory for taking accountability and knowing where to go and how to do certain things in the drill.” He continued by adding, “And we do consistent training for our security staff, whether it be in just normal response or active shooter or responding to an irate parent, for example, we do a lot of different training.”
Chris Hendrickson was an Army Squad Leader in the U.S. Army for over ten years; in-between he received his B.A. from the University of Nevada and was a police officer for the Henderson Police Department. He is currently the Director of Safety and Security for the Alexander Dawson School.
Natural disasters are one of the most unpredictable, but expected forms of destruction that humanity can expect to happen anywhere and at any time. Unfortunately, many types of disasters result in the loss of life, in addition to wide-scale devastation. When it comes to educational facilities like schools, there’s a certain type of disaster response that communities will need in the aftermath of one. The city of Joplin, Missouri, which experienced a deadly tornado in 2011, would come to terms with this when a disaster occurred on a high school’s graduation day and caused the death of seven students and a staff member.
Natural disasters are unavoidable, but how can preparedness, particularly in schools, assist in response efforts to them? And what did Joplin School officials learn from it?
In the latest “School Safety Today” podcast, host Michelle Dawn Mooney interviewed Dr. C.J. Huff, an Education Consultant and Disaster Recovery Expert and the former superintendent of Joplin Schools. Dr. Huff discussed how the tornado impacted the district’s students, families, and staff and what he learned from the urgent needs Joplin needed immediately after.
Mooney and Huff also talked about …
1.How the Bright Futures framework assisted in Joplin Schools' recovery and rebuilding efforts following a devasting EF-5 tornado
2.Strategies to build local leadership and resource capacity
3.Lessons learned that are applicable to the day-to-day crises school communities face
“One of the primary lessons learned and where Bright Futures really comes into play, is the idea that relationships matter. You have to have relationships in your community, across your community, and across your region, in order to be able to be successful in that long-term recovery effort,” said Dr. Huff.
“Because all disasters start at low point, have a lot of resources pouring into your community initially, but the next disaster comes along, those resources go away to address that next disaster, and you kind of find yourself relying on those resources you have there locally or regionally, and the thing that Bright Futures did for us in Joplin, prior to the disaster, was allowed us that opportunity to build those connections, relationships across the community, put support structures in place to meet the needs of our kids, identify those resources, create systems that would allow us to get those resources quickly to our children, so that we can stabilize our lives to the greatest degree possible as we dealt with poverty issues and other issues that surfaced that so many of our kids are faced with, and then leverage those partnerships and relationships to create new opportunities for our kids.”
Dr. C.J. Huff is an educator, an Education Consultant and Disaster Recovery Expert, and the former superintendent of Joplin Schools. He led his district’s disaster response strategy, and he has over two decades of experience as an educator. Dr. Huff is also the founder of Bright Futures USA.
On today's episode of School Safety Today, Michelle Dawn Mooney chatted with Mike Matranga, former Director of Safety and Security at Texas City ISD and CEO of M6 Global. They talked about how situational awareness skills can be used to implement early intervention measures, how schoolwide training is critical for identifying and providing mental health resources, and the importance of practicing emergency response plans with all stakeholders.
Honing situational awareness skills is key to enacting a multi-faceted approach to identifying concerning behaviors in order to prevent harm to self or others. It is critical now more than ever to move from being reactive to proactive in identifying these behaviors and having the resources to refer and help those in need. All roles in the school community have this collective responsibility – a well-trained and informed staff, parent groups, and student groups are key.
When it comes to emergency response planning, it is not enough to just have a plan. Schools need to coordinate and rehearse the plan. And no single department or role should the plan fall to; all stakeholder groups need to come together to develop, review, and practice.
Mike Matranga is the founder and CEO of M6 Global Defense Group, an elected Texas City Independent School District (TCISD) Board Member at Large, and a former TCISD Executive Director of Security and School Safety with a demonstrated history of working in multiple facets of the security and investigations industry. He has been featured in several national publications, including the Wall Street Journal, WIRED Magazine, and the Security Magazine cover story in March 2020. He was recently ranked No. 5 in the nation for his unique school security planning and operational experience using technology and human behavior techniques to thwart mass attacks. Matranga has been a pioneer in school-based security practices, even leading to legislation being written per his recommendations.
Finding adequate funding can be difficult task for some schools. But there is a benefit when a school district, and ultimately its schools, become a grant recipient. These grants can help schools implement more educational and extracurricular programs, and even hire more staff, which can have a major impact on the quality of education provided. However, there are stipulations that come with these grants and schools often must meet certain guidelines to be awarded a grant. That is an area of expertise for Dr. Paula Love, who guides schools on how to apply for the grants best suited for their needs.
What are the types of grants out there for schools? How can schools ensure that they have better chances at winning a grant, given strict criteria?
Exploring the ways grants are utilized and the basis on which they are created, Dr. Paula Love discussed the matter with host Michelle Dawn Mooney, on an episode of “School Safety Today.” The two talked about the application process that schools have to go through in order to qualify, and how grants can play a significant role in school safety.
Mooney and Love further explored:
1.The types of grants, including competitive and formula grants
2.Examples of specific grants and their eligibility criteria, such as programs for special needs students and school safety
3.Importance of applying for state grants, eligibility odds, and federal grants
“State grants are so good right now and the reason that I say that is it gives us [more of a] window,” said Love. “...At the federal level, and you're competing for this money, there may only be a few winners. At state levels like what we're seeing in Texas and other states, the opportunity to go after those is even greater.”
Dr. Paula Love is an author and the founder of RFP Match, a company she created to consult schools on applying and receiving grants. She’s worked in the education field for over three decades and found her calling in grant-writing.
Raptor Technologies provides resources on school funding information as well as works with RFPMatch to help schools apply for and earn grant dollars.
Fostering a safe environment for kids to learn is a priority for many. To discuss the 2022 State of School Safety findings, host Michelle Dawn Mooney spoke with Michele Gay, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Safe and Sound Schools.
Safe and Sound Schools was founded shortly after the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting in 2012, which claimed 26 lives, including Gay’s first grade daughter. She reflected, “We have, you know, found a lot of inspiration in our little girl, and one of the things that inspires most about her to this day is her love of school.”
In honor of their daughter, Gay built an organization dedicated to providing the tools, resources, and guidance to support communities around the country and world. She added, “So that they can ensure that everybody is safe and sound and school can continue, which I’m positive is something that my little girl shines upon.”
Most recently, Safe and Sound Schools published the 2022 State of School Safety Report which is a survey providing responses from school stakeholders, including law enforcement, school professionals, community members, parents, and students. This includes, “...Everybody and anybody who has to do with school because that, in our estimation, is how we can really get a handle on the issues and the challenges that our schools are facing,” said Gay. This survey aims to host and reflect a national conversation on school safety concerns. Gay added, “But also one of the most exciting things I think I see every year after the release of this report, is how it recharges the local level conversations. That’s where real change happens.”
Creating active local leadership allows public engagement on topics to increase which can lead to change that can trickle up. Gay noted one of the survey’s key takeaways was the “people first” approach, “...What I mean by that is…that people are the most valuable resource. That’s what our school stakeholders want to prioritize.”
Using a people first approach allows professionals to support reports, provide interventions, and host mental health awareness sessions for communities. In turn, this helps the community identify and assess potential behavioral risks or threats in the community and ultimately helps improve safety.
Fostering a safe environment for kids to learn is a priority for many. To discuss the 2022 State of School Safety findings, host Michelle Dawn Mooney spoke with Michele Gay, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Safe and Sound Schools.
Safe and Sound Schools was founded shortly after the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting in 2012, which claimed 26 lives, including Gay’s first grade daughter. She reflected, “We have, you know, found a lot of inspiration in our little girl, and one of the things that inspires most about her to this day is her love of school.”
In honor of their daughter, Gay built an organization dedicated to providing the tools, resources, and guidance to support communities around the country and world. She added, “So that they can ensure that everybody is safe and sound and school can continue, which I’m positive is something that my little girl shines upon.”
Most recently, Safe and Sound Schools published the 2022 State of School Safety Report which is a survey providing responses from school stakeholders, including law enforcement, school professionals, community members, parents, and students. This includes, “...Everybody and anybody who has to do with school because that, in our estimation, is how we can really get a handle on the issues and the challenges that our schools are facing,” said Gay. This survey aims to host and reflect a national conversation on school safety concerns. Gay added, “But also one of the most exciting things I think I see every year after the release of this report, is how it recharges the local level conversations. That’s where real change happens.”
Creating active local leadership allows public engagement on topics to increase which can lead to change that can trickle up. Gay noted one of the survey’s key takeaways was the “people first” approach, “...What I mean by that is…that people are the most valuable resource. That’s what our school stakeholders want to prioritize.”
Using a people first approach allows professionals to support reports, provide interventions, and host mental health awareness sessions for communities. In turn, this helps the community identify and assess potential behavioral risks or threats in the community and ultimately helps improve safety.
Safety in schools is of the utmost importance. As such, host Bobby Brill speaks with author and school counselor Molly Hudgens about her heroic story and the importance of student wellbeing as it pertains to school safety.
Hudgens, a School Counselor and Author of Saving Sycamore: The School Shooting That Never Happened, served first as an educator for eight years before pivoting to counseling in her district’s middle school.
In 2016, an armed 8th grade student came into her office. Distressed, he said he was planning to harm students and staff and that he felt she might be the only one to convince him otherwise.
What happened next was a testament to Hudgens’ philosophy in regards to what it means to be a school counselor and provide a supportive environment for her students. Hudgens said Sycamore allowed her the freedom and supportive environment to show the students and staff that student well-being is a serious and important topic.
“...Our school, in particular, was light years ahead of where we needed to be in terms of counseling,” said Hudgens. Hudgens noted that she follows three steps to help support student well-being and school safety. The first is to make sure they are physically safe. Secondly, it is vital to address mental health concerns students or staff may have. Thirdly, Hudgens teaches students and staff about wellbeing and educates them on mental health topics.
“There was always an open-door opportunity for students to meet with a counselor,” said Hudgens. She noted that counselors in Sycamore just have to focus on helping students. There are no expectations to make student schedules or help with testing. This provides flexibility in providing counseling for those who need it. Hudgens explained, “Our focus has always been primarily on addressing student and family needs.”
In this episode of School Safety Today, Hudgens shares her story while discussing elements she believes helps make schools successful in developing a culture of school safety and wellbeing for staff and students.
For 30 years, Raptor Technologies has provided school safety software with the mission to protect every child, every school, every day. Raptor is trusted to protect over 50,000 K-12 schools worldwide and maintains an annual client retention rate of greater than 98% with its visitor and volunteer management, emergency management, Raptor Alert and other software solutions. In June 2022, Raptor introduced StudentSafe, a first-of-its-kind patent-pending software platform designed to help school staff connect the dots on students in distress by providing a seamless way for all staff to recognize, document, support, and manage low-level concerns of individual students.
Raptor Technologies provides school safety software solutions that help schools prepare, prevent, respond and recover to help schools build a culture of school safety and wellbeing. For more information, visit raptortech.com.
Safety in schools is of the utmost importance. As such, host Bobby Brill speaks with author and school counselor Molly Hudgens about her heroic story and the importance of student wellbeing as it pertains to school safety.
Hudgens, a School Counselor and Author of Saving Sycamore: The School Shooting That Never Happened, served first as an educator for eight years before pivoting to counseling in her district’s middle school.
In 2016, an armed 8th grade student came into her office. Distressed, he said he was planning to harm students and staff and that he felt she might be the only one to convince him otherwise.
What happened next was a testament to Hudgens’ philosophy in regards to what it means to be a school counselor and provide a supportive environment for her students. Hudgens said Sycamore allowed her the freedom and supportive environment to show the students and staff that student well-being is a serious and important topic.
“...Our school, in particular, was light years ahead of where we needed to be in terms of counseling,” said Hudgens. Hudgens noted that she follows three steps to help support student well-being and school safety. The first is to make sure they are physically safe. Secondly, it is vital to address mental health concerns students or staff may have. Thirdly, Hudgens teaches students and staff about wellbeing and educates them on mental health topics.
“There was always an open-door opportunity for students to meet with a counselor,” said Hudgens. She noted that counselors in Sycamore just have to focus on helping students. There are no expectations to make student schedules or help with testing. This provides flexibility in providing counseling for those who need it. Hudgens explained, “Our focus has always been primarily on addressing student and family needs.”
In this episode of School Safety Today, Hudgens shares her story while discussing elements she believes helps make schools successful in developing a culture of school safety and wellbeing for staff and students.
For 30 years, Raptor Technologies has provided school safety software with the mission to protect every child, every school, every day. Raptor is trusted to protect over 50,000 K-12 schools worldwide and maintains an annual client retention rate of greater than 98% with its visitor and volunteer management, emergency management, Raptor Alert and other software solutions. In June 2022, Raptor introduced StudentSafeTM, a first-of-its-kind patent-pending software platform designed to help school staff connect the dots on students in distress by providing a seamless way for all staff to recognize, document, support, and manage low-level concerns of individual students.
Raptor Technologies provides school safety software solutions that help schools prepare, prevent, respond and recover to help schools build a culture of school safety and wellbeing. For more information, visit raptortech.com.
Joey Wahler interviews Michael Rodgers, founder and CEO of the Critical Response Group (CRG). CRG and Raptor Technologies are working together to provide efficient protection for first responders in schools through digital floor plan mapping technology. CRG also provides this technology to businesses, hospitals, and many other important infrastructures.
Rodgers shares how his experience from the military and overall personal life has led to his passion for developing public safety practices for the community. Rodgers and CRG integrates lessons he has learned from his work overseas, applying it to school safety protocols across the country.
Data consisting of imagery of buildings, building changes over the years, and floor plans often are not labeled properly, making it hard to communicate in emergency situations. Rodgers aims to bridge the gap to update the data among facilities. Additionally, schools typically keep safety protocols within local enforcements, while in some scenarios, other jurisdictions play a role in emergency response. Rodgers aims to expand protocols to all jurisdictions.
Critical Response Group takes charge in creation of the mapping files and Raptor Technologies understands the safety and security needs of the schools. Rodgers refers to Raptor Technologies as the “delivery mechanism of the mapping data into the school district.” Furthermore, CRG is adamant on working closely with public safety professionals to assess what tools they have deployed. The combined approached allows for consistency in data retrieval and a safe approach to keeping buildings safe. Digital mapping allows a clear, easy to use map, to enable consistent communication for all personnel.
Raptor’s solutions for emergency management, mobile panic button, drill management, and reunification can help schools prepare and respond to emergency situations of all kinds. CRG’s digital floor plan mapping is a valuable tool for first responders when seconds count during emergency response. For more information, visit raptortech.com.
Michael Reidenbach, Executive Director of Security and Emergency Management for the Charleston County School District 3999 in North Charleston, SC, spent a significant portion of his police career working with schools and universities as a campus police officer and school resource officer (SRO.) Reidenbach became a recent finalist for K-12 Campus Safety Director of the Year in his director role with the Charleston County School District. He spoke with Bobby Brill about his devotion to students, safety, and the surrounding community.
Unlike police, who must react to situations, Reidenbach’s role takes a proactive approach within the school and community environment to build a strong foundation and foster a positive relationship between all parties. And in Reidenbach’s case, he’s in charge of a team that covers over 50,000 students. “Our school resource officers help us immensely in that regard, and we’re fortunate to have those great community partnerships,” Reidenbach said. “But then it’s about evaluating your needs and ensuring that you have the programs and resources in place to address those needs.”
One of Reidenbach’s team’s most vital responsibilities is emergency preparedness and planning in the school district. “Over the past couple of years, we undertook a significant project to rewrite our emergency operations plan completely, and that process starts with conducting an assessment,” Reidenbach said. These plans include assessing and addressing resource needs and working with a multidisciplinary team to create and deploy the program.
As part of Reidenbach’s plan, every school staff member in the district goes through a safety briefing from his office. His district also does bi-annual staff training on emergency procedures, and then Reidenbach offers additional training sessions principals can take advantage of for their staff meetings. “Additionally, we have drills throughout the year on a variety of different hazards,” Reidenbach said. “We want to provide the training and reinforce that training through the drills and exercises we conduct.”
Michael Reidenbach, Executive Director of Security and Emergency Management for the Charleston County School District 3999 in North Charleston, SC, spent a significant portion of his police career working with schools and universities as a campus police officer and school resource officer (SRO.) Reidenbach became a recent finalist for K-12 Campus Safety Director of the Year in his director role with the Charleston County School District. He spoke with Bobby Brill about his devotion to students, safety, and the surrounding community.
Unlike police, who must react to situations, Reidenbach’s role takes a proactive approach within the school and community environment to build a strong foundation and foster a positive relationship between all parties. And in Reidenbach’s case, he’s in charge of a team that covers over 50,000 students. “Our school resource officers help us immensely in that regard, and we’re fortunate to have those great community partnerships,” Reidenbach said. “But then it’s about evaluating your needs and ensuring that you have the programs and resources in place to address those needs.”
One of Reidenbach’s team’s most vital responsibilities is emergency preparedness and planning in the school district. “Over the past couple of years, we undertook a significant project to rewrite our emergency operations plan completely, and that process starts with conducting an assessment,” Reidenbach said. These plans include assessing and addressing resource needs and working with a multidisciplinary team to create and deploy the program.
As part of Reidenbach’s plan, every school staff member in the district goes through a safety briefing from his office. His district also does bi-annual staff training on emergency procedures, and then Reidenbach offers additional training sessions principals can take advantage of for their staff meetings. “Additionally, we have drills throughout the year on a variety of different hazards,” Reidenbach said. “We want to provide the training and reinforce that training through the drills and exercises we conduct.”
Dr. Paula Love, Founder of RFP Match, joined Tyler Kern for a refresher on ESSER (Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief) to talk about the latest funding available to help schools. There were plenty of updates and opportunities to share.
Since the pandemic, several different COVID relief acts and packages have provided much-needed funds to the education sector. All this funding adds up to some of the most significant opportunities for education in U.S. history.
“ESSER 1, under the CARES Act, we got 13.2 billion dollars,” Love said. While she thought this was a large amount of money, Love soon discovered this was one of the smaller amounts. “Under the CRRSA money, we got $54.3 billion. That’s almost four times what we got in ESSER 1. In ESSER 3, we got $123 billion dollars.”
All over the country, volunteers are serving their school districts and communities. Finding them isn’t the only task but managing and maintaining volunteer relationships canquickly become a challenge without the proper tools and resources.. Host Tyler Kern talked to a school official with a lifetime of volunteer experience. Chris Robinson, the Volunteer Program Supervisor for the Lake Washington School District, said volunteers are vital and functional to the success of any school. She added that in addition to teachers and administrative staff, volunteer relationships play a significant role in a child’s educational experience.
“Obviously, we want our kids to graduate, to be future ready, and be able to contribute to our societies. So, we want them to be successful, and volunteers being there every step of the way with academics and enrichment programs really do help to achieve that mission,” Robinson said.
Talking about some of the heavier aspects of school safety is not always a pleasant topic to discuss, but it is critical in today’s environment. People need to know how school districts approach educating and training students on maneuvering and, in worst-case scenarios, surviving violent school incidents. Adam Coughran, co-founder of Safe Kids, Inc., and developer of the H.E.R.O. (Hide, Escape, Run, Overcome) Program, spoke with Daniel J. Litwin on the foremost safety strategies for education.
Coughran used his extensive background in law enforcement, particularly the safety practices and counseling skills he learned, to create Safe Kids, Inc., and develop the H.E.R.O. program. Coughran realized training educational professionals on how to handle an active-shooter event with the same methods as law enforcement wasn’t effective, and different approaches and skills were required to make a difference.
Raptor Technologies provides school safety software solutions that help schools prepare, prevent, respond and recover to help schools build a culture of school safety and wellbeing. For more information, visit raptortech.com.
The Partner Alliance for Safer Schools (PASS) was created in 2013 on the heels of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. The Security Industry Association (SIA) and the National Systems Contractors Association (NSCA) collaborated on the formation of PASS, a volunteer organization focused on providing school administrators, school boards, and public safety officials with a road map and guidelines for implementing a layered, tiered approach to enhancing their environments’ safety and security. Mark Williams, PASS board chairman, joined Daniel J. Litwin to discuss these guidelines and the organization’s layered approach to safety.
Before his involvement with PASS, Williams spent 30 years in the security and safety industry, with his first school safety survey dating back to 1988. The approach to school safety is different now than three decades ago. Before the Columbine High School shootings, schools were fairly open without considering who was in the building and which door they entered. As school safety continues to evolve, PASS works to keep up with safety protocols and stay ahead of them with guidelines.
Raptor Technologies provides school safety software solutions that help schools prepare, prevent, respond and recover to help schools build a culture of school safety and wellbeing. For more information, visit raptortech.com.
In this episode of School Safety Today, host Daniel Litwin spoke with Raptor Technology’s SVP of Product and Engineering, Chris Noell, on what it means to have best-in-class IT security requirements to reduce the likelihood of new and dangerous cybersecurity breaches impacting educational settings while compromising critical student and staff data.
This important topic has come to the forefront of public-school initiatives due to the rise in cybersecurity breaches at the school level. According to According to the State of K-12 Cybersecurity: 2020 Year in Review, 377 school districts experienced a record-setting 408 publicly disclosed cybersecurity incidents (k12cybersecure.com). The issue is so prevalent that it gained the attention of the Biden administration. In fact, President Biden signed the K-12 Cybersecurity Act of 2021 to equip elementary and secondary schools with strategies to combat cyberattacks.
Lockdown drills: they may be an increasing trend in education systems across the country, but there is a debate on the merits of these drills versus the impact they have on students, teachers, and staff. Which causes more harm, the threat of a shooting occurring, or the stress imposed by participating in lockdown drills? School Safety Today’s Hilary Kennedy asked two experts to weigh in on this debate. and add their insights.
Dr. Jaclyn Schildkraut, an Author, Researcher, and Associate Professor of Criminal Justices at the State University of New York at Oswego, and Dr. Amanda Nickerson, Author, Professor, Psychologist, and Director of the Alberti Center for Bullying Abuse Prevention at the University of Buffalo, presented some of their findings from their comprehensive study on lockdown drills.
“Lockdown drills are a set of procedures that you can use anytime there is a danger inside of a building,” Dr. Schildkraut said. “That can include an active shooter, but that can also include things like an angry parent, or a fight getting out of control, or even a dangerous animal that might find its way into the school building.”
Because lockdown drills are often talked about synonymously with active shooter drills, Dr. Schildkraut said this association could create certain negative connotations and concerns.
There are many arguments both for and against lockdown drills. But Dr. Schildkraut and Dr. Nickerson said their research findings don’t support the opposing views against such exercises. One method Dr. Nickerson said showed promise was to take a trauma-informed approach in such drills
“A trauma-informed approach isn’t necessarily specific to lockdown drills, but it’s something that says that we should actually assume that individuals are more likely rather than less likely to have a history of trauma,” Dr. Nickerson explained. “So, in the procedures that we do in schools and in other organizations, we want to take that into account.”
Raptor Technologies provides school safety software solutions that help schools prepare, prevent, respond and recover to help schools build a culture of school safety and wellbeing. For more information, visit raptortech.com.
School safety is an umbrella with many different aspects underneath it. The evolution of this principle continues, as it has to include everything from natural disasters to violence to a pandemic. Providing insights on this shift, School Safety Today host Daniel Litwin spoke with the former superintendent of Santa Fe TX ISD, Dr. Leigh Wall. Dr. Wall recently retired after 43 years in public education, including 13 as a superintendent.
“The school is more than a schoolhouse. The safety for the student, staff, and others is different now, reflecting changes in society,” Dr. Wall said.
The fact that all stakeholders have a huge awareness of safety is in itself a shift. “School safety is ultimately more important for all. Before teaching and learning, we have to focus on safety,” Dr. Wall added.
One way in which Texas schools attempted to modernize the issue was with State Bill 11, which passed in response to a 2018 shooting. Sponsors wrote it as a comprehensive safety bill that supported funding and initiatives relating to school safety.
Speaking about SB 11, Dr. Wall said, “The key is the emergency operation plan requirement for all types, and that those plans must be dynamic. Auditing, as well as threat assessment teams, are part of it, too. It has interconnected layers to support students, teachers, staff, and the community.”
What SB 11 doesn’t precisely address is COVID-19. “Wellness is part of safety, and the pandemic put this into its scope. There are many new concerns, and schools need to have the right tools to deal with it because we have to address basic safety needs before learning,” Dr. Wall noted.
Is there a gap between how parents and students perceive a particular school’s safety and how the school administrators do? A 2021 survey in partnership with Raptor Technologies revealed a wide gap in the viewpoints of school safety initiatives. Students and parents are less confident than administrators in several critical areas, including a 30-point gap when asked if their school takes a proactive approach to safety awareness.
To further discuss these survey results and look at some strategies schools can take moving forward, School Safety Today tapped mother, educator, and Co-Founder of Safe and Sound Schools, Michele Gay.
“Being an educator, school safety was always a thing,” Gay said. “Those seeds were planted and watered over the years.” But when Gay lost her youngest daughter, Josephine, at Sandy Hook, that not only changed her life forever, but her perspective on school safety changed and became a recognition that school safety needs to be a top priority.
In co-founding Safe and Sound Schools with a fellow Sand Hook parent, Gay’s mission is to ensure all schools in the United States and beyond have the resources and assistance available to make schools safer. “There are so many people with so much to contribute. For us, it’s really just about bringing that all together,” Gay said.
Gay said she was not surprised by the survey results showing gaps, but the gaps in student perception were troubling because they are the ones at the school every day. “To see that there is this disenfranchised group that is our primary stakeholder, that waves a big red flag for all of us.”
Some of these gaps could be due to a lack of effective communication between the schools and the parents, a barrier Gay admitted is a challenge. “You can tell people stuff, and hopefully they remember it, but once they become engaged in it, and they’re a part of it, they’re not only remembering it, but sharing it with others,” Gay said. So, engaging the community is a necessary tool for closing the communication gap.
With so many different federal actions providing funding for schools to reopen this Fall, educators, administrators, and facility managers are struggling to understand the best way to take advantage of all of this assistance and how to center their strategies in thoughtful ways.
Here to give insights on this episode of School Safety Today, a Raptor Technologies podcast is Dr. Paula Love, President, RFPMatch.com, The Funding Doctor. She talked with host Daniel Litwin, the Voice of B2B, about how to align funds to protect your school, details on grant application and submission, and how to create sustainability in your investments and maximize the use of funds.
“What I see right now is a funding frenzy because you’re trying to navigate all these funds and different fund names,” Love said. “Sometimes it’s difficult to ascertain which grants are associated with different acts.”
The CARES Act (Coronavirus Aid Relief and Economic Security) provided funds to the Department of Education called Education Stabilization Funds, which is the umbrella that oversees all funds. There are two pathways that K-12 schools can access: they are ESSER (Elementary and Secondary School Education Relief) and GEER(Governor’s Education Emergency Relief) funds.
The ARP ESSER fund has set aside $123 billion in available funds to help K-12 schools safely reopen their doors, providing dollars for health screening tools, funds for learning loss, and additional resources to address the mental well-being of students impacted by the isolation of lockdown. GEER set aside $3 billion, which will use a governor’s discretion for how they will use that money in their state.
Listen to hear Dr. Love further break down the Coronavirus funding for schools.
Schools will be back and mostly open for in-person learning in a few weeks. As students return, challenges around safety and emergencies still exist. So, how can schools be prepared?
Offering his expert perspective, Frank Kitzerow, Retired Chief of Police and District Security for Palm Beach County School District, spoke with School Safety Today host Shelby Skrhak. Kitzerow had a 40-year career in law enforcement.
“In looking at the safety aspect, there are lots of questions. One thing I learned was to pay attention to the community, because schools are a microcosm of that,” Kitzerow said.
While leading the Palm Beach County School District, Kitzerow established a school safety ecosystem. “It’s about staying left of the X, with X being a catastrophic event. It’s a focus on prevention, intervention and diversion to stop a potential attack.”
The planning part of school safety is essential, according to Kitzerow. “You want to have a robust toolbox to respond quickly if that day occurs. A plan for this involves communication, unified command and technology.”
Developing a response plan requires lots of stakeholders. It’s parents, students, teachers, administrators, law enforcement, fire and rescue, and more. Kitzerow established such a program involving all these parties focusing on effective communication, situational awareness, and technology tools.
“One of the heaviest lifts in communication is reunification, matching students to family, which is often a lot of people, and there’s no room for error. Emergency management platforms support this,” Kitzerow noted.
Such technology can also play a role in communicating with teachers during an incident.
Kitzerow also urged districts to practice the plans, not just create them. “Make sure everyone is well-versed. What you invest on the front end, you’ll take on the back end.”
As in-person schooling returns, what should the top priorities be for facility managers? School safety priorities, strategies and challenges have changed.
Returning to school full-time is going to be a challenge for students. Combine the anxiety of being back together with uncertainty and a readjustment to in-person classroom life, some of which will also likely be mixed in with remote learning, and life moving forward will be complicated for students.
On this episode of the School Safety Today Podcast by Raptor Technologies, host Hilary Kennedy talked with Dr. Scott Poland, Professor and Co-Director of the Suicide and Violence Prevention Office, as well as Chief Craig Miller, Retired Chief of Police for the Dallas ISD Police Department.
Raptor is the nation’s leading provider of integrated visitor, volunteer and emergency management software, which is purpose-built to fully protect schools from any threat.
The trio chatted about what a safe reopening will look like for students, as they will have to contend with new mental health battles and emergency preparedness.
Mental healthcare will be at the top of the list, as students will undoubtedly have issues coming back into school after one of the most significant stressors in their lives.
When it comes to student health and mental health, Poland believes it’s essential that all involved parties stick together to work on the best possible outcomes and safeguard students, including schools, parents, police departments and mental health professionals.
One of the main things affecting student mental health will be lost ground, academically.
“I do have a great deal of confidence in teachers,” Poland said. “They’ll figure out a way to help students catch up. But I think we have to acknowledge, in particular, children who lived in poverty and children of color. They fell further behind.”