The Most Overlooked Safety Fix for Schools with Former Secret Service Agent Mike Matranga
- Safe and Sound Schools
- a few seconds ago
- 5 min read
The Sound Off, a Safe and Sound Schools Podcast
School safety isn’t just about protocols or technology — it’s about people. In this episode of The Sound Off, Michele Gay and Mike Matranga, former U.S. Secret Service agent and nationally recognized school safety leader, discuss how culture, relationships, readiness, and real-world experience shape safer school communities.
From the vital role of school resource officers (SROs) to the power of proactive intervention, Michele and Mike offer insights into what works — and what doesn’t — when it comes to preventing violence and protecting our schools. Their conversation emphasizes the human side of school safety: training and empowering staff with purpose, supporting students early, and fostering a culture of trust, awareness, and accountability.
Below you’ll find the full episode guide with key takeaways, standout quotes, and additional resources. Tune in to discover how you can refocus your school’s safety strategy on what matters most — people, preparedness, and purposeful action.
Episode Guide
[01:00] Facing the Hard Truths of School Violence
School safety isn’t static — it’s a fast-moving challenge. Michele and Mike begin by confronting the uncomfortable reality: today’s threats are more complex, more frequent, and constantly changing. What once worked may no longer be enough, and schools must be agile and proactive in their approach to protection.
“The threats have evolved, and so must our responses to them.” – Mike Matranga
[02:45] From Paper to Practice: Making Safety Plans Real
A plan on paper doesn’t keep students safe — practice does. Mike stresses that real preparedness means engaging school staff in hands-on, scenario-based training that reflects the unpredictability of real emergencies. Michele reinforces the idea that safety is a shared responsibility, and everyone in the building must be equipped to respond.
“If we’re not training [staff] with real-world scenarios, then we’re not really training.” – Mike Matranga
[05:30] Redefining the Role of School Resource Officers
SROs are more than security — they’re relationship builders and trusted members of the school community. Michele and Mike discuss how integrating law enforcement into the culture of the school strengthens not only safety but also connection and trust between students and adults.
“Law enforcement isn’t just about policing; it’s about being a part of the school community.” – Michele Gay
[08:15] Empowering Educators to Act in Crisis Moments
In a crisis, every second counts. Mike explains that educators must be trained and empowered to act without hesitation. Bureaucratic delays can cost lives — clear protocols and confident decision-making save them.
“You can’t wait for permission when seconds matter.” – Mike Matranga
[11:00] Early Intervention: Seeing the Signs, Taking the Steps
Violence is rarely impulsive — it’s often preceded by warning signs. Mike and Michele emphasize the power of early intervention, whether through formal threat assessments or informal observations. Prevention starts with connection, listening, and acting on concern before it becomes a crisis.
“Intervention starts with observation — and with people who care enough to act.” – Michele Gay
[14:20] Training for Real Life: Drills, Emotions, and Muscle Memory
Training must go beyond the technical to prepare people emotionally and mentally. Mike and Michele explore how repeated, realistic practice helps staff build confidence and muscle memory, so that when stress hits, the response is automatic and effective.
“When things go wrong, you don’t rise to the occasion — you fall back on your training.” – Mike Matranga
[17:10] Building a Culture of Trust and Reporting
When students trust the adults around them, they’re more likely to speak up. Michele and Mike discuss how building relationships and creating safe reporting channels can transform students from bystanders into key partners in prevention.
“Students need to know their voices matter — and that adults will listen.” – Michele Gay
[20:25] Accountability Without Blame: Learning and Adapting
School safety can’t rely on static plans or a set-it-and-forget-it mindset. Mike underscores the need for ongoing evaluation and the courage to acknowledge when something isn’t working. This kind of accountability isn’t about placing blame after a crisis—it’s about preventing the next one. Michele adds that true commitment to safety means being willing to reflect, adapt, and lead with transparency.
“This isn’t about Monday morning quarterbacking. It’s about saving lives. If something doesn’t work, we fix it. If we got it wrong, we own it and get better.” – Mike Matranga
[23:30] Supporting People with Smart, Purposeful Technology
Technology should support — not substitute — human judgment. Mike cautions that no device or software can replace well-trained, empowered people. The best safety systems are those where tools enhance, but do not define, a school’s preparedness.
“Technology helps, but people are the real solution.” – Mike Matranga
[26:00] Building a Culture of Safety Through Community
Safety doesn’t stop at the school doors. Michele and Mike underscore the power of community-wide engagement, including how parents, caregivers, and local partners all play critical roles. When safety becomes a shared mission, schools become more resilient and responsive.
“It’s not just the school’s job — it’s a shared responsibility.” – Michele Gay
Listen to the Full Episode with Mike Matranga
This episode of The Sound Off offers a grounded, people-first approach to school safety. From empowering educators to strengthening SRO programs, Michele and Mike’s conversation is a must-listen for anyone working to build safer schools. Whether you’re a classroom teacher, school leader, or community member—there’s something here for you.
This episode is proudly sponsored by Status Solutions Network. SSN provides schools with safety technology at no cost and ongoing funding to address their unique and evolving needs—made possible through the support of local businesses advertising on the platform.
Check Out These Additional Resources
Dive into these resources for more information and strategies to build a solid foundation of safety and security on your campus:
Listen to More Episodes of The Sound Off
In this episode of The Sound Off, Michele Gay and Lindsay Burton, Associate Director for School Safety (Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency), explore how reporting systems empower students, engage communities, and prevent incidents before they occur.
Can insightful perspectives on the functions and misconceptions of SROs and the strategies they use to enhance school safety.
Discover firsthand insights on recognizing at-risk students, debunking dangerous stereotypes, and the power of genuine connections.