This state-by-state landscape highlights where behavioral threat assessment is required, supported through regulation, or addressed through guidance and best practices. Behavioral Threat Assessment STATE-BY-STATE Every state has a role to play in advancing behavioral threat assessment and management in K–12 schools, but the requirements, resources, and expectations that come with them, vary widely. Explore this state-by-state breakdown to understand where behavioral threat assessment is required, supported through regulation, or addressed through guidance and best practices. This data was compiled from state statutes, regulations, and each state's own Department of Education or school safety center materials as of August 2026, not the 2019 baseline cited in earlier national reports. Category boundaries reflect editorial judgment calls documented state by state.* Alabama Encouraged State law requires annual staff safety training and emergency plans covering "serious threats," but those provisions are lockdown and severe-weather response procedures, not behavioral threat assessment, so no qualifying mandate exists. Alaska Encouraged No Alaska statute or Department of Education webpage mandates or endorses threat assessment, but the department co-leads an annual School Safety & Well-Being Summit that includes a session on aligning behavioral threat assessment with student support systems. Arizona Encouraged State law requires periodic school safety assessments, but these are physical building-security reviews, not behavioral threat evaluations, so Arizona has no BTAM mandate. Arkansas Required Ark. Code Ann. § 6-15-1303, as amended in 2023, requires every public school district and charter school to establish a behavioral threat assessment team and train every team member. California Required Cal. Educ. Code § 49390 et seq. (SB 906, 2022) requires school staff to immediately report any homicidal threat to law enforcement, which must then investigate and assess it: a mandatory assessment process, just run through police rather than a school-based team. Colorado State Regulation & Training Colorado runs statutorily created programs (Safe2Tell and the School Safety Resource Center) that provide mandatory training and reporting infrastructure, but the state's own Attorney General has stated in writing that districts are "not required" to establish threat assessment systems. Connecticut Required Conn. Gen. Stat. § 10-222m requires school security and safety plans. Connecticut's 2019 baseline requirement was retained here, since no evidence of repeal was found. Delaware Encouraged The Omnibus School Safety Act mandates comprehensive safety plans and drills but not threat assessment specifically; the state's Emergency Management Agency promotes BTAM as a recommended tool, not a legal requirement. District of Columbia (D.C) Encouraged No DC statute mandates threat assessment, but the Homeland Security & Emergency Management Agency runs school-safety training that names "Behavioral Threat Assessment and Management" as an offered course and links to federal BTAM resources. Florida Required Fla. Stat. § 1006.07(7), originating in the 2018 post-Parkland Marjory Stoneman Douglas Act, requires every school to use the CSTAG threat assessment model and has since been expanded. Georgia Required Georgia's 2019 baseline requirement was retained absent evidence of repeal, and a 2023 law (Ga. Code Ann. § 20-2-1185) separately requires annual threat assessment protocols and drills. Hawaii Encouraged Several bills to create a threat assessment mandate (2020, 2021-22, 2022, 2024) were introduced but none passed, leaving Hawaii with no enacted statute or state guidance document. Idaho Encouraged A 2025 bill that would have given legal immunity to school threat assessment teams died in committee, leaving only informal guidance from the state's School Safety & Security program. Illinois Required 105 ILCS 128/45 establishes Illinois's statewide behavioral threat assessment mandate. Indiana Required Ind. Code § 10-21-1-10(c)(2)(F) requires multidisciplinary threat assessment teams in every school's safety plan, with compliance required by July 1, 2025: a new requirement since the 2019 baseline. Iowa State Regulation & Training Iowa Code § 280.36 (2023) creates liability protection and information-sharing rules for schools that choose to form threat assessment teams, but the state's own implementation guidance says the law does not require any school to form one. Kansas Encouraged The Kansas School Safety and Security Act addresses security officers and general safety planning, but no provision requires threat assessment training or a threat-triggered process; state guidance on the topic remains non-statutory. Kentucky Required Ky. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 158.4412, part of the 2019 School Safety and Resiliency Act, establishes the mandate. Louisiana Required La. R.S. 17:416.16, dating to 2001, requires every public school system to establish a district threat assessment team with specific required membership: one of the longest-standing mandates in the country. Maine Required A 2025 law (LD 21) amended Maine's student conduct code to require all schools to adopt policies consistent with behavioral threat assessment and management best practices statewide. Maryland Required Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 7-1507, the 2018 Safe to Learn Act, is a current, in-force mandatory statute. Massachusetts Encouraged No Massachusetts statute mandates threat assessment, but the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education names "School Threat Assessment" directly in its own emergency-planning guidance and links to federal best-practice resources. Michigan Required Mich. Comp. Laws § 380.1308e (2024) uses mandatory "shall ensure" language, with schools required to comply by October 1, 2026. Minnesota State Regulation & Training A 2026 law requires every school board to adopt an anonymous threat-reporting policy by 2027 and implement it by 2028: a real mandate, but for reporting infrastructure rather than a threat assessment team or process. Mississippi Required Mississippi's 2019 baseline requirement was retained absent evidence of repeal; a 2025 School Safety Grant Program (SB 2538) supports it with funding. Missouri State Regulation & Training State law formally defines "behavioral threat assessment" and requires districts to request a transferring student's threat assessment records within 48 hours, but only for students placed through the child welfare system, not a universal mandate to conduct assessments. Montana Required A 2023 law (Senate Bill 213) requires every school safety plan to include a threat assessment protocol and a threat assessment team that meets at least monthly. Nebraska State Regulation & Training State law defines "threat assessment team" and requires the state to provide training and a 24/7 anonymous reporting line, but only for schools that already have a team; nothing requires a school to form one in the first place. Nevada Required Nev. Rev. Stat. § 388.1455 requires every school to have a "SafeVoice" multidisciplinary team of at least three staff, and the state Department of Education actively runs its own threat assessment program alongside it. New Hampshire Required New Hampshire's 2019 baseline requirement was retained absent evidence of repeal; a 2022 SAFE Grant Program provides related funding but is not itself a BTAM mandate. New Jersey Required P.L. 2022, c.83, signed in August 2022 and effective the following school year, is a new requirement since the 2019 baseline. New Mexico Encouraged State law requires training for school personnel, but on child abuse and neglect detection, not threat assessment; the Public Education Department's annual safety plan template recommends threat assessment without requiring it. New York Required NYSED's own regulation (8 CRR-NY 155.17), implementing the SAVE Act, specifically addresses multi-disciplinary behavioral assessment teams as a strategy schools may use and must document if used: real regulatory grounding, though closer to permissive than a universal mandate. North Carolina Required N.C. Gen. Stat. § 115C-105.65 requires every school to establish a threat assessment team: a new requirement since the 2019 baseline. North Dakota Encouraged North Dakota's own Department of Public Instruction links out to the North Dakota Safety Council's "All-Threat Assessment" school safety service: a real reference to threat assessment even without a state mandate behind it. Ohio Required Ohio Rev. Code § 3313.669 (2021) establishes the mandate. Oklahoma State Regulation & Training State law requires every school to have a standing Safe School Committee, but the statute is scoped to bullying prevention rather than targeted-violence threat assessment. Oregon Required Oregon's 2019 baseline requirement, cited by RAND/NTAC as an early multidisciplinary-team mandate, was retained absent evidence of repeal. Pennsylvania Required 24 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 13-1302-E (2019) establishes the mandate. Rhode Island Required R.I. Gen. Laws § 16-21-23.2 establishes the mandate. South Carolina Required South Carolina's own Department of Education states plainly that state law requires every school to have a threat assessment team, though the exact statute could not be confirmed; the mechanism most likely runs through an annual budget provision rather than permanent code. South Dakota Encouraged A 2024 law addresses door security and school resource officer presence, not threat assessment or training, so no qualifying statute exists. Tennessee Required Signed in May 2023 after the Covenant School shooting, Tenn. Code Ann. §§ 49-6-2701 to 2703 requires every school district to establish threat assessment teams. Texas Required Tex. Educ. Code § 37.115 (2019) establishes the mandate. Utah Required Utah Code Ann. §§ 53G-8-701.5 and 701.6 require every school to have a designated safety and security specialist who must conduct a behavioral threat assessment using an evidence-based tool when needed. Vermont Required 16 V.S.A. § 1485 is a current mandatory statute added between 2019 and today, independently confirmed against the state's own Agency of Education guidance. Virginia Required Va. Code Ann. § 22.1-79.4 establishes the mandate Washington Required Wash. Rev. Code § 28A.320.123 establishes the mandate. West Virginia Encouraged State law mandates active shooter training, but that trains for physical response after violence begins rather than identifying behavioral warning signs beforehand, so it falls short of a threat assessment mandate. Wisconsin Required Wis. Stat. § 118.07(5) (2017) requires every school district to train all employees on mandatory reporting of school violence threats: a real statewide training mandate, even without a separate law requiring a standing team. Wyoming Encouraged Wyoming's Department of Education runs its own "Threat Assessment & Reporting" webpage describing how threat assessment helps prevent violence: a genuine state reference to the practice, without a mandate behind it. Additional Resources This lineup of learning and training opportunities, focused on behavioral threat assessment, prevention, digital safety, and more, is designed to build toward the 2nd Annual International PREVENT Conference in January 2027. REGISTER TODAY Ideal for leaders and front-line staff, this guide provides best practice guidance to law enforcement agencies, leaders, and practitioners, as well as school officials, behavioral health specialists, parents, and community stakeholders. ACCESS THE GUIDE BTAM is one of the most effective prevention strategies available today. These five episodes of The Sound Off on School Safety will help you deepen your understanding of BTAM and strengthen your prevention efforts. LISTEN NOW *Review the research and references supporting this state-by-state overview. Bring Training to Your Community Eqiup your staff with the training to effectively support students in need.

Prevention and intervention cannot rely on a single strategy. Building sustainable safety frameworks requires aligning resources, strengthening community, learning from averted cases of school violence, and creating systems of support that both reduce risk and foster resilience. Join us to explore how an integrated approach can help meet students’ needs, strengthen protective factors, and create the conditions for lasting safety and well-being. A Resilient Community: Building Systems that Foster Well-Being BACK Prevention and intervention cannot rely on a single strategy. Building sustainable safety frameworks requires aligning resources, strengthening community, learning from averted cases of school violence, and creating systems of support that both reduce risk and foster resilience. Join us to explore how an integrated approach can help meet students’ needs, strengthen protective factors, and create the conditions for lasting safety and well-being. Prevention and intervention cannot rely on a single strategy. Building sustainable safety frameworks requires aligning resources, strengthening community, learning from averted cases of school violence, and creating systems of support that both reduce risk and foster resilience. Join us to explore how an integrated approach can help meet students’ needs, strengthen protective factors, and create the conditions for lasting safety and well-being. Key Takeaways: Why effective prevention and intervention efforts require an integrated, multi-layered approach. The power of aligning resources, strengthening community systems, and learning from each other to support sustainable school safety frameworks. How comprehensive systems of support can reduce risk, strengthen protective factors, and promote long-term safety and well-being.

Safe & Sound WEBINARS A Resilient Community: Building Systems that Foster Well-Being Prevention and intervention cannot rely on a single strategy. Building sustainable safety frameworks requires aligning resources, strengthening community, learning from averted cases of school violence, and creating systems of support that both reduce risk and foster resilience. Join us to explore how an integrated approach can help meet students’ needs, strengthen protective factors, and create the conditions for lasting safety and well-being. Watch Now A Culture of Prevention: Building the Framework to Prevent Crisis School violence is preventable. Students considering harm – to themselves or others – often show warning signs. The key is ensuring multidisciplinary teams can recognize those signals early and respond with timely, effective support that redirects students off the pathway to violence toward safety and well-being. Join experts in crisis prevention, preparedness and student well-being to learn practical steps you can take to help prevent crises on your campus. Watch Now A Comprehensive Approach: Understanding the Layers of Effective School Safety True school safety is about preparing for every hazard that could impact students, staff, and the wider school community. This webinar explores the six pillars of comprehensive school safety and how a holistic, layered, and inclusive approach can strengthen and transform your campus culture. Watch Now Digital Dangers & Student Behavior: When Low-Level Concerns Become Safety Risks This session is designed to support educators, student services teams, school mental health professionals, safety personnel, and administrators working to build sustainable, student-centered approaches to prevention, intervention, and support. Watch Now What's Working in School Safety: Trends, Tools, and Success Stories for the School Year Michele Gay is joined by Alana O’Grady, Vice President of Communications and Public Affairs at Verkada, for an in-depth conversation on current safety trends and actionable steps to make your school safer. Watch Now Protecting Students from Inappropriate Adult-Student Relationships: What Every School Leader & Educator Needs to Know Dr. Lori Mueller is joined by educator sexual abuse survivor and Safe and Sound Speakers Bureau member Michelle Denault to discuss what every school superintendent and K-12 leader needs to know to proactively protect students. Watch Now Lessons in Prevention: Real Cases and Insights from the Averted School Violence Database Join Michele Gay, Founder and Executive Director of Safe and Sound Schools, Mo Canady, Executive Director of NASRO, for a 60-minute session designed to help school safety stakeholders learn from averted acts of violence. Watch Now School Safety: How to Start Productive Conversations in Your Community Join Michele Gay, Founder and Executive Director of Safe and Sound Schools, and Tom McDermott, K-12 Safety & Security Coach for CEIA USA, for an engaging and informative session designed for parents, educators, and community stakeholders committed to school safety. Watch Now From the Classroom to the Boardroom: Addressing the Increase in School Violence (Webinar) Join our expert panel with Michele Gay in discussion about this dangerous trend. We’ll cover how communities can restore safety and return to learning, and share best practices, insights, and key resources. Watch Now Especially Safe®: An Inclusive Approach to Safety Preparedness in Educational Settings (Webinar) Join Safe and Sound Schools for a webinar focused on how safety teams can address the safety and security needs of school community members with access and functional needs (special needs). Watch Now

FEATURED SPEAKERS Close SPEAKER PERSPECTIVE Filter items with SpeakerPerspective Educator (Teacher, School Counselor, Special Educator) Law Enforcement/Public Safety Medical (Crisis/Emergency Responder, School Nurse) Parent/Guardian Practitioner (Mental Health Professional, Social Worker, Crisis Responder) School Leadership (Principal, Administrator, District Leader) School-based Mental Health (Psychologist, Social Worker, Counselor) Survivor RESET FILTER COMPREHENSIVE SCHOOL SAFETY DISCIPLINE Filter items with Comprehensive School Safety Discipline Culture, Climate & Community Health & Wellness Leadership, Law & Privacy Mental & Behavioral Health Operations & Emergency Management Safety & Security PREVENTION & INTERVENTION Filter items with Prevention & Intervention Bullying & Cyberbullying Prevention Digital Safety & Online Threats Grooming & Exploitation, Intervention Strategies Identifying & Supporting At-Risk Students Leader-care/Self-care MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) Security Sexual Abuse Prevention Substance Use & Addiction Suicide Prevention & Mental Health Support FILTER BY TOPIC Total Results: 30 EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS & RESPONSE Filter items with Emergency Preparedness & Response Active Shooter Prevention & Response Best Practices for Drills Emergency Preparedness & Response Staying Safe Stop the Bleed RESILENCE & RECOVERY Filter items with Resilience & Recovery Childhood Trauma & Adverse Experiences Lessons Learned from Tragedy Recovery & Resilience After Tragedy Trauma-Informed Practices Turning Pain Into Purpose THREAT ASSESSMENT Filter by Threat Assessment Averted School Violence Case Studies Behavioral Threat Assessment & Management Digital Threat Assessment Physical Security & Risk Assessment School Shooters: Profiles & Prevention Violence Prevention Strategies SAFETY OF SPECIAL POPULATIONS Filter by Safety of Special Populations Inclusive School Safety Practices LGTBQ+ & Safety Special Education Considerations TYPE OF PRESENTATION Filter by Type of Presentation Breakout Sessions Keynote Presentation Professional Development Training & Workshops FEATURED SPEAKER Filter items with FlagText FEATURED SPEAKER DR. STEPHANIE GRANT Developmental Psychologist, Neurodevelopment and Trauma Expert Learn More ANTOINETTE KING, CISSP Physical & Cyber Security Expert Learn More DOUG HUNT Childhood Trauma Survivor, Associate Director of Bright Futures Mission Advancement Learn More ANNEMOSS ROGERS Mental Health and Suicide Education Expert Learn More KATEY MCPHERSON Digital Wellness Coach Learn More BEN FERNANDEZ Lead School Psychologist Northern Virginia School System Learn More DR. CJ HUFF Educator and Child Advocate Learn More DR. SAVAHANNA WAGNER Co-Founder Rescue in Color Emergency Medical Expert Learn More FRANK DEANGELIS Retired Principal of Columbine High School Learn More JONATHAN CRISTALL Prosecutor Certified Sexual Violence Prevention Instructor, Digital Safety Advocate, Author Learn More LISA HAMP Survivor of the Virginia Tech Shooting Learn More MICHELE GAY Founder and Executive Director of Safe and Sound Schools Sandy Hook Parent Learn More MICHELLE DENAULT Survivor of Educator Sexual Abuse Learn More MISSY DODDS Survivor of the Red Lake High School Shooting Learn More MOLLY BRADLEY HUDGENS School Counselor and Congressional Medal of Honor Citizens Honor Recipient Learn More OFFICER MEG SOULTZ Co-Founder Rescue in Color Public Safety and Emergency Medical Expert Learn More PAUL TIMM PSP, Physical Security Expert Learn More AJ DEANDREA Retired Police Chief & Tactical Lead Trainer Learn More DANIEL JEWISS Lead Investigator for the Sandy Hook School Shooting Learn More DAVE OKADA President, Association of Threat Assessment Professionals (ATAP) Learn More DR. AMANDA NICKERSON Professor and Director of the Alberti Center for Bullying Abuse Prevention Learn More DR. MELISSA REEVES Former President of the National Association of School Psychologists Learn More DR. PETER LANGMAN Author and Expert in the Psychology of School Shooters Learn More DR. SCOTT POLAND Professor/Licensed Psychologist and Expert on School Violence Learn More DR. STEPHEN BROCK Nationally Certified School Psychologist and Licensed Educational Psychologist Learn More DR. TODD SAVAGE Professor of School Psychology Learn More JIN KIM FBI Veteran/Expert on Active Shooter & Workplace Violence Preparedness Learn More JOHN MCDONALD Co-founder & Chief Operating Officer, Council for School Safety Leadership (CSSL) Learn More MADALENA DEANDREA Borderline Bar and Grill Shooting Survivor & Resiliency Advocate Learn More NATALIE HAMMOND Elementary Principal and Sandy Hook School Shooting Survivor Learn More All speaking engagements are coordinated through Brian at Kirkland Productions. To coordinate an event, please contact Brian at brian@kirklandproductions.com or 866-769-9037 Book A Safe and Sound SPEAKER TODAY Our nationally recognized team of speakers are available for your event! Please complete the form below to get started, and a member of our team will be in touch soon! Empowering School Communities From keynotes to hands-on workshops and community-wide forums, our speakers can adapt their delivery approach to meet the unique needs of your event. Our speaking team can deliver content on a variety of topics related to safety, crisis prevention, response, recovery, and mental health. Our Speakers Safe and Sound Schools'® panel of school safety experts combine deep practical knowledge with engaging delivery to inspire and educate your school community. BOOK A SPEAKER

Dr. Amanda Nickerson is a leading expert in school safety, crisis prevention, and trauma-informed practices. As the director of the Alberti Center for Bullying Abuse Prevention at the University at Buffalo, she brings a research-driven, student-centered approach to creating safe and supportive school environments. As an extensively published author and speaker, she offers actionable strategies for implementing trauma-informed drills, fostering positive school climates, and advantages of social-emotional strengths. Her research- and experience-based expertise makes her an invaluable resource for schools and organizations committed to comprehensive, compassionate safety solutions. WHY Book Dr. Nickerson FOR YOUR EVENT? “The keynote presentation was truly outstanding! Dr. Nickerson delivered an inspiring message which drew the attention of everyone in the audience. It was motivational, extremely well organized, and an exemplar from an educational-teaching perspective .” WHO Books Dr. Nickerson ? With her focus on psychological safety and prevention, Dr. Nickerson is a valued speaker for K-12 audiences seeking evidence-based comprehensive safety planning and mental health guidance. Her presentations offer actionable insights on addressing bullying, trauma, and crisis recovery through methods that promote healing and community strength. BOOK TODAY DR. AMANDA NICKERSON Professor and Director of the Alberti Center for Bullying Abuse Prevention BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Dr. Nickerson TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! SPEAKER Topics Include Mental & Behavioral Health Culture, Climate, & Community Bullying & Cyberbullying Prevention Suicide Prevention & Mental Health Support Identifying & Supporting At-Risk Students Intervention Strategies MTSS (Multi-Tiered Systems of Support) Leader-care/Self-care Behavioral Threat Assessment & Management Emergency Preparedness & Response Signature PRESENTATIONS Click on the titles to learn more about each signature presentation and fill out the form below to book for your next event. PREPaRE Workshop #1 – Comprehensive School Safety Planning: Prevention Through Recovery (3rd Edition) 8-Hour Full-Day Workshop In this newly updated workshop, participants will learn how to establish and sustain comprehensive school safety and crisis prevention and preparedness efforts. With updated research and strategies, this workshop makes a clearer connection between ongoing school safety and crisis preparedness. It also emphasizes the unique needs and functions of school teams and the steps involved in developing these teams, including a model that integrates school personnel and community provider roles. The PREPaRE model builds on existing personnel, resources and programs, and can be adapted to individual school needs and size. Finally, the workshop explores how to prepare for school crises by developing, exercising, and evaluating safety and crisis plans. This workshop is an excellent course for mental health and educational professionals working at all grade levels in your district that help establish a safe school climate and respond to crises. NOTE: The maximum number of participants is 100. There are additional fees of $45 per participant for materials that will be ordered directly from NASP. All materials are electronic, so there are no shipping fees. School Safety: Students First This presentation, offered by several of our speakers and educators, is designed with students in mind. On our website, we offer a complimentary download of our Safe and Sound Youth Council Kit. This guide is designed to help 6th – 12th grade students, their parents, and their advisors take the first steps toward being a proactive part of their school’s safety plan. For those schools and school districts who want to take the extra step, Safe and Sound Schools offers speakers who can assist in guidance and implementation, help launch the program, lead site walk-throughs, and ensure that you have all of the tools you need to institute safe school principles for all students. Each program is customized to the unique needs of that school’s community. Our presenters share their personal stories followed by a powerful call to action directing the youth of our nation to step up for school safety. As leaders and problem-solvers in their own right, our next generation is essential to our mission: safe and sound schools for all. This program is offered by these Safe and Sound speakers: Michele Gay, Alissa Parker, Frank DeAngelis, CJ Huff, Lisa Hamp, and Dr. Amanda Nickerson. PREPaRE Workshop # 2 – Mental Health Crisis Interventions: Responding to an Acute Traumatic Stressor in Schools (3rd Edition) 13-Hour (2 Full Day) Workshop This two-day workshop provides school-based mental health professionals and other school crisis intervention team members with the knowledge necessary to meet the mental health needs of students and staff following a school-associated crisis event. With updated research and crisis intervention strategies, this workshop teaches participants how to prevent and prepare for psychological trauma, reaffirm both the physical health of members of the school community and students’ perceptions that they are safe and secure, evaluate the degree of psychological trauma, respond to the psychological needs of members of the school community, and examine the effectiveness of school crisis intervention and recovery efforts. This workshop is an excellent course for all mental health professionals in your district who provide mental health crisis intervention services. This educator is also available to present the PREPaRE ToT (Training of Trainers) Workshops that correspond to the PREPaRE workshops described above. NOTE: The maximum number of participants is 45. There are additional fees of $55 per participant for materials that will be ordered directly from NASP. All materials are electronic, so there are no shipping fees. Bullying Prevention and Intervention Dr. Nickerson presents the myriad issues and presentations of bullying in today’s schools and explores their impact upon students’ learning and sense of safety in school today. She shares practical solutions, interventions, and strategies, and resources for identifying and combating these challenges to promote a safe school climate. Promoting Social-Emotional Strengths through Assessment and Intervention 3-hour program As part of a balanced, comprehensive understanding of children’s mental health, it is important to not only examine the problems that interfere with functioning, but also to assess and build upon social-emotional strengths. Social-emotional skills create a sense of accomplishment, contribute to satisfying relationships, enhance the ability to cope with stress, and promote social and academic development. Dr. Nickerson presents advantages of focusing on social-emotional strengths, an overview of strength-based assessment measures, and approaches to developing these strengths at the individual, small group, and school-wide levels. BOOK NOW Testimonials Review 1 Review 2 Review 3 “Dr. Nickerson is such a knowledgeable and competent professional. I really admire her teaching philosophy and how ‘real’ she is. I think every student should be required to take this course with her and ONLY HER.” “I learned more than I expected. I enjoyed Dr. Nickerson and the schedule of the day.” Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY Amanda Nickerson is a professor and director of the Alberti Center for Bullying Abuse Prevention at the University at Buffalo, the State University of New York. Dr. Nickerson’s research focuses on school crisis prevention and intervention, with a particular focus on bullying and other forms of violence and abuse. She also has expertise on positive school climate, parent and peer relationships, and promoting social-emotional strengths of youth. She has published more than 130 journal articles and book chapters, written/edited 5 books, and conducted over 350 professional presentations. Dr. Nickerson is a licensed psychologist, a nationally certified school psychologist, and a fellow of the American Psychological Association. She is Coordinator of Research for the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) School Safety and Crisis Prevention Committee and an author of the PREPaRE School Crisis Prevention and Intervention training curriculum. Book Dr. Nickerson TODAY!

Daniel Jewiss is a leading voice in comprehensive school safety. Having served as the lead investigator of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting, he brings a rare depth of insight into the realities of school violence and the urgent need for preparedness. Daniel challenges schools to move beyond surface-level drills and embrace a mindset of continuous improvement, coordination, and accountability. He equips audiences with concrete strategies to strengthen law enforcement collaboration, reduce response time, and build trust within school communities. With his firsthand experience and practical approach, Daniel is an essential speaker for organizations committed to building safer, smarter, and more responsive school environments. WHY Book Daniel FOR YOUR EVENT? “Dan’s presentation was awesome. From our perspective everything went well and the initial feedback that we received was very positive. Thank you so much for your help with getting Dan to our training. We look forward to working with you again as well.” -Ryan Stewart, Senior School Safety Specialist, Indiana Department of Education WHO Books Daniel ? Daniel’s ability to translate hard lessons into actionable solutions makes him an invaluable resource for schools and organizations aiming to strengthen crisis response and safety protocols. He is widely respected for his work guiding communities through the complexities of high-impact school crises with a focus on prevention, response, and healing. Recent audiences include: Indiana Department of Education SPIAA Conference Halias Symposium IMPD Leadership Academy BOOK TODAY DANIEL JEWISS Lead Investigator for the Sandy Hook School Shooting BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Daniel TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! SPEAKER Topics Include Safety & Security Leadership, Law, & Policy Operations & Emergency Management Violence Prevention Strategies Emergency Preparedness & Response Active Shooter Preparedness & Response Lessons Learned from Tragedy Signature PRESENTATIONS Click on the titles to learn more about each signature presentation and fill out the form below to book for your next event. Tragedy at Sandy Hook: A Law Enforcement Perspective & Lessons Learned 90-minute keynote up to 8-hour training On December 14th, 2012, twenty 1st graders and six staff members at the Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, CT were tragically killed during an Active Shooter event. Since then, the number of Active Shooter events continues to rise, and the number of victims also gets higher and higher as the shooters learn from each event. Although tactical training for 1st Responders has also increased and numerous states now require annual practice of school emergency response plans, there often remains a significant gap of time before law enforcement arrives and the threat is located and stopped. Therefore, it is critical that these valuable seconds be minimized, so we must figure out how to Shave Seconds to Save Lives!© In addition to those critical life saving measures, there are numerous other invaluable Lessons Learned, both short term and long term, from the Sandy Hook School Shooting. It is imperative that law enforcement squeezes every ounce of experience out of this tragic event in an effort to continuously improve our response concerning managing the scene, managing our people, conducting the investigation and supporting the victims and their families. For this reason, Team Training Associates’ Dan Jewiss, who was the Lead Investigator for the Sandy Hook School Shooting, travels the country to share his personal law enforcement perspective and Lessons Learned. Due to the vast number of Lessons Learned, Dan tailors much of his presentation to the make-up of the audience. Active Shooter Training for Dispatch 16-hour, two-day course Team Training Associates’ Daniel Jewiss, who was the Lead Investigator for the Sandy Hook School Shooting, developed this 2-day course to enlighten Dispatchers on the Lessons Learned from recent Active Shooter events and the critical roles that Dispatch played in them, most notably the 2012 Sandy Hook School Shooting. In addition, weapons other than guns are being effectively used, which is why the term Active Aggressor has also been adopted and will be discussed and used synonymously with Active Shooter throughout this training. Day #1 of this 2-day course consists of an in-depth analysis of the response procedures and timelines taken to report, dispatch and respond to the Sandy Hook School Shooting and other recent Active Shooter/Aggressor events. It is designed to teach Dispatchers the benefit of Scriptwriting, a critical skill necessary for Shaving Seconds to Save Lives© during an Active Shooter/Aggressor event. It includes a workshop portion that challenges Dispatchers to utilize the Lessons Learned from those recent Active Shooter/Aggressor events, along with their own training and experience, to develop Active Shooter/Aggressor Dispatch Scripts for their own scenarios. Day #2 will build on the foundational teaching points established on Day #1. Dispatchers will perform scenario-based training repetitions, monitored, coached and evaluated using a progressive “Crawl-Walk-Run” blended-learning performance development model. In addition, Dispatchers will be made familiar with the first priorities of 1st Responders on the scene of an Active Shooter/Aggressor event. This will assist Dispatchers to provide more effective support to stop the threat and save lives. Dispatchers will be reminded to use this course information in conjunction with their existing training and department policies. Lastly, Dispatchers are presented with some of the personnel wellness challenges they may encounter in the wake of an Active Shooter/Aggressor event. BOOK NOW Review 1 Review 2 “Extremely valuable. Motivational to act on the information. Hoping to get more training from you. Sharing the students names, the moment of silence, very impactful. Keep doing it. Thank you for sharing the story so others can learn from it.” —2025 TX Public Safety Conference “Very informative and I definitely got some good things to think about and challenging questions to ask my agency but also myself about how I would handle this as a line level and a supervisor.” —2025 TX Public Safety Conference Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY Dan Jewiss retired in 2021 after serving 23 years with the Connecticut State Police. He began his career as a road Trooper, patrolling the northwest corner of CT. He then spent 12 years as a Detective in the elite Western District Major Crime Squad, where he investigated numerous felony cases such as homicides, bank robberies, sexual assaults, financial crimes and most notably, the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School Shooting. As the Lead Investigator of that tragedy, Dan still remains committed to supporting the victims and their families. Dan also spent 7 years as an Instructor at the CT State Police Training Academy, where his primary roles as a P.O.S.T. certified instructor were teaching Leadership & Team-Building, Search & Seizure Case Law, as well as Active Shooter Response. Dan also served 20 years in the CT Army National Guard. During his military career, Dan served full-time for 3 years in Counterdrug Operations, where he helped establish military based training for local, state and federal law enforcement agencies. As a Sergeant First Class he was selected to be a TAC for Officer Candidate School (OCS), where he became a certified Army Instructor and Platoon Trainer. He helped develop, coordinate and conduct Leadership training to mentor soldiers to become commissioned officers in the United States Army. Dan eventually became the Chief Instructor at OCS and then the Battalion Operations Non-Commissioned Officer at the Leadership Regiment at Camp Niantic in CT, before he retired in 2011 at the rank of Master Sergeant. In the private arena, Dan has been conducting training since 2008. He is the Founder and President of The RAK Academy, where Dan and his co-instructors teach audiences easy to understand and affordable strategies to SAVE LIVES in Active Killer incidents. The RAK Academy’s primary audiences are 1st Responders, School Personnel, Houses of Worship Communities and Businesses. Dan is also a Senior Associate at Team Training Associates, a Certified Everything DiSC Workplace Instructor and a co-creator of the Performance Leadership Model. In all his capacities, Dan strives to inspire his audiences to become positive influences in their families, workplaces and communities. He is also the proud father of two beautiful daughters. Book Daniel TODAY! Testimonials

Featured AVAILABLE TO BOOK EXCLUSIVELY THROUGH THE SAFE AND SOUND SPEAKERS BUREAU Lisa Hamp is dedicated to sharing her survival story as a powerful reminder of the ripple effects of school violence, including untreated PTSD. She inspires audiences with powerful lessons learned since surviving the Virginia Tech shooting on April 16, 2007. Through her survivor’s perspective on response, recovery, and resilience, her message is clear: no one survives a school shooting or act of mass tragic violence without scars. By sharing her story with others who have experienced trauma and the first responders who always answer these calls, she seeks to let them know: you are not alone. WHY Book Lisa FOR YOUR EVENT? “Lisa Hamp provides a moving and personal perspective on surviving a mass casualty incident. Her story is a candid, poignant, and honest reflection on trauma, survival, and resiliency. Her experience emphasizes the importance of recognizing trauma and victimization in all its forms, as well as honoring the experiences of ALL victims and survivors, including those whose wounds may not be the most obvious.” -Gene Deisinger, Ph.D., Managing Partner, SIGMA Threat Management Associate, Deputy Chief of Police & Director, Threat Management Services (Retired), Virginia Tech WHO Books Lisa ? Lisa Hamp’s lived experience and survivor advocacy make her a trusted voice in school safety conversations nationwide. She is dedicated to helping first responders, counselors, teachers, students, and many others to improve school safety and best practices for tragedy recovery, including the importance of supporting students and staff long-term. Recent audiences include: Koshka Foundation for Safer Schools Pittsylvania County Sheriff's Office Lane Fire Authority Add your school or organization to the list of those inspired by Lisa - book her today! BOOK TODAY LISA HAMP Survivor of the Virginia Tech Shooting BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Lisa TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! SPEAKER Topics Include Safety & Security Culture, Climate, & Community Emergency Preparedness & Response Active Shooter Preparedness & Response Recovery & Resilience After Tragedy Turning Pain into Purpose Lessons Learned from Tragedy Signature PRESENTATIONS Click on the titles to learn more about each signature presentation and fill out the form below to book for your next event. Lessons from a Virginia Tech Survivor (Keynote, 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on requests) Lisa Hamp shares her personal story during the April 16, 2007, Virginia Tech shooting, as well as her recovery afterwards. She describes how her class built a barricade to prevent the shooter from entering their classroom, as well as her struggle to return to a “normal’ life during the weeks, months, and years that followed. She explains what made her eventually seek counseling after eight years and a variety of hard, but powerful lessons she has learned since that tragic day. Through her raw and emotional presentation, she provides a survivor’s perspective on experiencing and recovering from a school shooting. Panel Discussions and Q & A Sessions Lisa offers Q and A sessions following her presentation or as a separate session. She is also available for panel discussions. As these formats are more organic and highly individualized, Lisa prefers to discuss and plan for these types of sessions directly with clients. School Safety: Students First This presentation, offered by several of our speakers and educators, is designed with students in mind. On our website, we offer a complimentary download of our Safe and Sound Youth Council Kit. This guide is designed to help 6th – 12th grade students, their parents, and their advisors take the first steps toward being a proactive part of the their school’s safety plan. For those schools and school districts who want to take the extra step, Safe and Sound Schools offers speakers who can assist in guidance and implementation, help launch the program, lead site walk-throughs, and ensure that you have all of the tools you need to institute safe school principles for all students. Each program is customized to the unique needs of that school’s community. Our presenters share their personal stories followed by a powerful call to action directing the youth of our nation to step up for school safety. As leaders and problem-solvers in their own right, our next generation is essential to our mission: safe and sound schools for all. This program is offered by these Safe and Sound speakers: Michele Gay, Alissa Parker, Frank DeAngelis, CJ Huff, Lisa Hamp, and Dr. Amanda Nickerson. BOOK NOW Review 1 Review 2 “Typically, after a tragic event the focus of recovery efforts begins with the injured or deceased. Lisa, through her experiences from the Virginia Tech incident, brought forward the impact these tragic events have on the non-injured survivors. As a community leader, her presentation helped me understand the importance of assistance for all survivors of tragic incidents.” - Chris Heppel, Assistant Chief, Lane Fire Authority “Lisa was well-prepared and well-received by the attendees. She gave us a personal and insightful look into her life after an extremely terrible event. Lisa’s life-changing experiences—not only in the days immediately following the shooting, but in the years to follow—drove home very important indicators on physical and mental wellness. As I watched, the audience all seemed intently focused on Lisa. We thank Lisa for educating us should we have an incident in our community.” -Mike Taylor, Sheriff, Pittsylvania County Sheriff's Office Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY Lisa Hamp is a survivor of the Virginia Tech shooting in Norris Hall that took place on April 16, 2007. With her classmates, she built a barricade to prevent the shooter from entering their classroom. Lisa suffered from untreated PTSD for many years after the Virginia Tech incident. In 2015, she sought counseling for an eating disorder. She had suffocated her feelings that were caused by the trauma and developed an eating disorder to cope. Since 2015, she continues to heal. She has begun sharing her story with law enforcement, EMS, school counselors, social workers, and mental health professionals. She believes that you don’t have to be shot to be injured and is passionate about helping those who have experienced trauma, as well as first responders. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from Virginia Tech, a Master’s degree in Operations Research from George Mason University, and a Master’s degree in Economics from John Hopkins University. Book Lisa TODAY! Testimonials

Featured AVAILABLE TO BOOK EXCLUSIVELY THROUGH THE SAFE AND SOUND SPEAKERS BUREAU Paul Timm is a decorated expert and recognized voice in the field of school safety and physical security. A Board-Certified Physical Security Professional (PSP), author of School Security: How to Build and Strengthen a School Safety Program , and host of “The Changing Face of School Security podcast, Timm is has spent decades conducting security assessments and advising educational institutions on actionable strategies to enhance their safety programs. Named one of Security Magazine’s Most Influential People in Security in 2020, he combines proven expertise with a practical approach and a deep understanding of school security to equip educators and administrators with the knowledge and tools needed to create safer learning environments. WHY Book Paul FOR YOUR EVENT? “Paul was FABULOUS!!! We would love to continue to work with him in the future. Thank you so much for your quick communication and responsiveness. He was super engaging and entertaining. His practical recommendations were feasible for others to wrap their mind around. We will certainly stay in touch and recommend him to our contacts and networks!” —Jenny Brockway, Coordinator: Counseling Services, Strategic Initiatives Division, Region 13 Education Service Center WHO Books Paul ? As a trusted expert, author, and speaker, Paul Timm equips organizations with practical strategies to strengthen school safety and security. He continually helps to build safer, more resilient learning environments by sharing insights and subject matter expertise with conference audiences and organizations of all sizes. Recent appearances include: National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO) Global Security Exchange (GSX) ASIS International Partner Alliance for Safer Schools (PASS) Campus Safety Conference Indiana Department of Education Michigan State Police New York State Association of Independent Schools La Grange Area Department of Special Education Region 13 Education Service Center Mountain State Educational Services Cooperative Jessup University Lubbock ISD Raptor Technologies SchoolSAFE Conference Lightspeed Technologies BOOK TODAY PAUL TIMM PSP, Physical Security Expert BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Paul TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! SPEAKER Topics Include Safety & Security Leadership, Law & Policy Operations & Emergency Management Security Physical Security & Risk Assessment Emergency Preparedness & Response Signature PRESENTATIONS Click on the titles to learn more about each signature presentation and fill out the form below to book for your next event. Three Keys to Effective School Security 1-2 Hour Keynote An effective school security program depends on more than just the state-mandated crisis management plan. How can you make sure your school is effectively addressing areas of vulnerability? This presentation will provide you with the tools you need to proactively and holistically approach school safety and security. Special focus will be placed on Collaboration, Awareness and Student Involvement. From train-the-trainer style quizzes to photographic vulnerability identification, attendees will benefit from an interactive environment. Attendees will learn how to address common security issues, implement site-specific strategies and access helpful resources. Trends in School Security School administrators are bombarded with potential solutions to make schools safer. How effective are these products and systems? In an interactive environment, attendees will learn the pros and cons of today’s offerings. Attendees will also gain an understanding of guidance, trends, and emerging threats critical to effective security planning. Raising Awareness: Moving From a Mayberry Mentality to a “See Something, Say Something” Culture 1-2 Hour Keynote or Workshop The “it can’t happen here” mindset is both incorrect and potentially debilitating from a loss prevention and emergency preparedness standpoint. How can schools effectively change the culture without scaring teachers and staff into submission? This highly interactive and practical presentation will equip attendees with a variety of ways to heighten safety awareness. Attendees will also benefit from the latest reporting methods. From engaging photo identification and video exercises to positive reinforcement and appropriate student involvement, don’t miss this opportunity to learn how to lead individuals to personally invest in making the learning environment safer! School Security Vulnerabilities & Solutions Where are your biggest security gaps and how can you address them? This highly engaging presentation will identify typical issues encountered during a 25-year career of conducting more than 2,000 security assessments. Attendees will benefit from photo identification exercises that demonstrate both security problems and potential solutions. Emergency Preparedness Tabletop Exercise 1-hour to Half Day Workshop During any emergency, it is important to be able to draw from all available resources. The special skills, training and capabilities of staff will play a vital role in coping with the effects of any disaster, and they will be of paramount importance during and after a major event. Participants in this train-the-trainer session will be placed in tabletop teams and be assigned specific roles (e.g. spokesperson, scribe, stakeholder). Once the rules are explained and the emergency scenario is introduced, participants will have facilitated and timed discussions with Q&A time among their teams. Each team will then share specific responses as the scenario unfolds. Lessons learned from K-12 incidents and other resources will be shared. Preventing & Preparing for the Active Shooter School Safety Before and After School Hours 1-2 Hour Workshop Providing a safe learning environment during the school day is challenging enough. How can safety and security be improved before and after class time? Join us as we address the difficulties that schools face in early-morning programs and after-school events. Learn how to effectively implement security measures and strengthen emergency preparedness. Benefit from helpful resources. BOOK NOW Testimonials Review 1 Review 2 Review 3 The presentation was terrific. I think everyone appreciated the information and guidance Paul had to share. I think it was probably just the right amount of information for the right amount of time. Raised everyone's anxiety a little given that our building is far from perfect but he helped in terms of prioritizing safety concerns and I think everyone was glad for that. —Ellie Ambuehl, Executive Director, La Grange Area Department of Special Education The presentation was terrific. I think everyone appreciated the information and guidance Paul had to share. I think it was probably just the right amount of information for the right amount of time. Raised everyone's anxiety a little given that our building is far from perfect but he helped in terms of prioritizing safety concerns and I think everyone was glad for that. —Ellie Ambuehl, Executive Director, La Grange Area Department of Special Education The presentation was terrific. I think everyone appreciated the information and guidance Paul had to share. I think it was probably just the right amount of information for the right amount of time. Raised everyone's anxiety a little given that our building is far from perfect but he helped in terms of prioritizing safety concerns and I think everyone was glad for that. —Ellie Ambuehl, Executive Director, La Grange Area Department of Special Education Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY Paul Timm, Director of Education Safety at Allegion, is a board-certified Physical Security Professional (PSP). He is the author of School Security: How to Build and Strengthen a School Safety Program , and the host of "The Changing Face of School Security" podcast. Paul was named one of the Most Influential People in Security in 2020 by Security Magazine. In addition to having conducted more than 2,000 vulnerability assessments and his frequent keynote addresses, Paul is an experienced School Crisis Assistance Team volunteer through the National Organization for Victims Assistance (NOVA). He serves on the Campus Safety Conferences Advisory Board, the Advisory Council for the Partner Alliance for Safer Schools, the ASIS International School Safety and Security Community, and the Illinois Association of School Business Officials Risk Management Committee. Paul is certified in Vulnerability Assessment Methodology (VAM) through Sandia National Laboratories and the ALPHA vulnerability assessment methodology. Paul holds a Master of Arts in Biblical Studies from Moody Theological Seminary. Book Paul TODAY!

AJ DeAndrea is a nationally recognized expert in tactical response and school safety, known for his leadership in some of the most high-profile critical incidents in U.S. history. With decades of SWAT and law enforcement experience, he brings insight into what it takes to respond effectively when seconds count. AJ’s approach emphasizes preparation, communication, and strong partnerships between schools and first responders. Through engaging, real-world training and presentations, he equips school communities with the tools, mindset, and confidence needed to act decisively under pressure—making him a trusted voice for those committed to saving lives and strengthening emergency response. WHY Book AJ FOR YOUR EVENT? "At the FBI National Academy, we had the honor of hearing from A.J. DeAndrea and Madalena DeAndrea, who shared powerful stories that deeply resonated with all of us. A.J., a seasoned expert in active shooter response, provided insights from his experiences, including his response to the Columbine tragedy and other critical incidents. His daughter, Madalena, courageously recounted her survival during the Borderline Bar & Grill shooting in California. Her story of resilience and the life-saving lessons she learned from her father are nothing short of inspirational." -Scott Hughes, Chief of Police, Hamilton Township, Warren County, OH (via LinkedIn ) WHO Books AJ ? AJ DeAndrea connects with audiences by sharing decades of experience, mission-critical insights, and a powerful emphasis on preparation, accountability, and teamwork. His presentations cover topics such as active shooter response, law enforcement and school collaboration, crisis leadership, and building effective emergency plans that save lives when it matters most. Recent audiences AJ has spoken to include: FBINA Quantico FBINAA Baltimore IACP Boston IACP Denver Add your school or organization to the list of those inspired by AJ - book him today! BOOK TODAY AJ DEANDREA Retired Police Chief & Tactical Lead Trainer BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING AJ TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! SPEAKER Topics Include Safety & Security Leadership, Law, & Policy Operations & Emergency Management Violence Prevention Strategies Physical Security & Risk Assessment Emergency Preparedness & Response Active Shooter Preparedness & Response Recovery & Resilience After Tragedy Turning Pain into Purpose Lessons Learned from Tragedy Signature PRESENTATIONS Click on the titles to learn more about each signature presentation and fill out the form below to book for your next event. Dark Nights of the Soul: When Terror Hits Home Deputy Chief AJ DeAndrea (Ret.) held leadership roles during three school shootings that forever changed the fabric of American society and transformed law enforcement’s response to active shooter incidents worldwide. These pivotal events—Columbine High School, Platte Canyon High School, and the Youth With A Mission (YWAM) shootings—form the foundation of this powerful presentation. AJ provides a candid, in-depth analysis of these tragedies, focusing not only on the challenges faced but also on the critical lessons learned. He explores the evolution of decision-making practices, the development of improved tactical responses, and the growing importance of mental health in prevention and recovery. From these experiences emerged the Eight Pillars of Awareness and Preparation, a framework designed to help communities reduce the likelihood of active shooter events and to respond more effectively should one occur. AJ brings multiple perspectives to this topic: Firsthand experience, having been inside the buildings during the Columbine, Platte Canyon, and YWAM shootings. Global tactical leadership, developing and teaching strategies to prevent and stop active shooter events worldwide. Personal perspective as a father, whose oldest daughter survived the 2018 Borderline Bar & Grill mass shooting in Thousand Oaks, California, which claimed 12 lives including that of Ventura County Sheriff’s Sergeant Ron Helus. Learning Objectives Upon completion of this presentation, attendees will be able to: Apply the Tactical Decision-Making Matrix (P.I.E.)—Priorities, Intelligence, and Environment—to real-world scenarios. Understand and implement the Eight Pillars of Awareness and Preparation to prevent, mitigate, and effectively manage active shooter events. Foster a resilient and supportive mental health culture within their agencies. Apply protective factors in their personal and professional lives to strengthen resilience in the aftermath of trauma. Platte Canyon High School Hostage and Shooting Incident This presentation offers an in-depth examination of the Platte Canyon High School hostage and shooting incident, a tragedy that significantly influenced both American society and the way law enforcement and schools approach active shooter preparedness worldwide. Deputy Chief AJ DeAndrea (Ret.) brings a unique perspective, having served in leadership roles during three school shootings: Columbine High School, Platte Canyon High School, and the Youth With A Mission (YWAM) shooting. His insights merge tactical expertise with personal experience, providing a rare and powerful account of these defining events. As one of the team leaders during the Platte Canyon incident, Deputy Chief DeAndrea entered third during the rescue operation. What began as an active shooter event evolved into a hostage crisis. After negotiations failed, the team executed a multiple-point explosive breach entry, successfully rescuing one student while tragically losing Emily Keyes. The suspect was neutralized in the operation. DeAndrea concludes with reflections not only as a law enforcement leader but also as a father. His oldest daughter survived the 2018 Borderline Bar & Grill mass shooting in Thousand Oaks, California, which claimed 12 lives, including Ventura County Sheriff’s Sergeant Ron Helus. This personal connection gives him a profound understanding of the enduring impact these events leave on survivors, families, and communities. These experiences have shaped the development of the Eight Pillars of Awareness and Preparation, a framework designed to help communities and agencies prevent, respond to, and manage active shooter incidents more effectively Youth With A Mission (YWAM) School Shooting This presentation provides an in-depth examination of the Youth With A Mission (YWAM) school shooting, a tragedy that shaped how law enforcement, fire, and emergency medical services approach active shooter preparedness across the nation and beyond. Deputy Chief AJ DeAndrea (Ret.) brings a unique perspective, having served in leadership roles during three school shootings: Columbine High School, Platte Canyon High School, and YWAM. His insights combine tactical expertise with lived experience, offering a rare and powerful account of these defining moments in modern law enforcement. While serving as a patrol sergeant, Deputy Chief DeAndrea responded to the YWAM shooting, where four individuals were shot—two fatally. He coordinated the entry, oversaw the evacuation of victims, and directed SWAT’s subsequent search for the suspect. The gunman later reemerged in Colorado Springs, killing two more victims at New Life Church before taking his own life. DeAndrea concludes by reflecting not only as a law enforcement leader but also as a father. His oldest daughter survived the 2018 Borderline Bar & Grill mass shooting in Thousand Oaks, California, which claimed 12 lives, including Ventura County Sheriff’s Sergeant Ron Helus. This deeply personal experience gives him a profound understanding of the lasting impact such tragedies have on survivors, families, and entire communities. These lessons and experiences informed the development of the Eight Pillars of Awareness and Preparation, a framework designed to help communities and agencies prevent, respond to, and manage active shooter incidents more effectively. Columbine High School Shooting Deputy Chief AJ DeAndrea (Ret.) provides a powerful account of his role as one of the SWAT entry team leaders during the first and second interior sweeps of Columbine High School. He delivers a tactical debrief coupled with a first-hand perspective from one of the most significant active shooter events in history—an event that profoundly reshaped American society and transformed law enforcement responses worldwide. With experience in three school shootings—Columbine High School, Platte Canyon High School, and Youth With A Mission (YWAM)—Deputy Chief DeAndrea brings unmatched insight, blending tactical expertise with deeply personal experiences. His presentation offers a rare, candid look at the challenges of leadership in moments of crisis. The session begins with an introduction to the P.I.E. Tactical Decision-Making Matrix (Priorities, Intelligence, Environment), a framework DeAndrea created for SWAT team leaders and later adopted as an operational philosophy by his agency. He then transitions into a tactical debrief of Columbine, examining the realities of the incident, the decisions made, and the lessons learned. Deputy Chief DeAndrea concludes with reflections not only as a law enforcement leader but also as a father. His oldest daughter survived the 2018 Borderline Bar & Grill mass shooting in Thousand Oaks, California, which claimed 12 lives, including Ventura County Sheriff’s Sergeant Ron Helus. This personal experience gives him a profound understanding of the enduring impact these tragedies leave on survivors, families, and communities. These hard-earned lessons helped shape the creation of the Eight Pillars of Awareness and Preparation—a framework designed to equip communities and agencies to prevent, respond to, and manage active shooter incidents more effectively. When Terror Hits Home: The Colorado School Massacres This presentation provides an in-depth examination of the Columbine High School, Platte Canyon High School, and Youth With a Mission (YWAM) shootings—tragic events that profoundly altered both American society and global law enforcement responses to active shooter incidents. Deputy Chief AJ DeAndrea (Retired) brings a unique perspective, having served in key leadership roles during all three events. His insights combine tactical expertise with deeply personal experiences, offering a rare and powerful account of these defining moments. The day begins with an introduction to the PIE Tactical Decision-Making Matrix, a framework developed by Deputy Chief DeAndrea for SWAT team leaders and later adopted as the operational philosophy of his agency. Columbine High School: Deputy Chief DeAndrea recounts his role as the SWAT entry team leader during the first interior sweep of the school, providing a tactical debrief and f irst-hand perspective from one of the most significant active shooter events in history. Platte Canyon High School: Serving as one of the team leaders, Deputy Chief DeAndrea entered third during the rescue operation. Initially an active shooter event, it evolved into a hostage crisis. After negotiations broke down, the team executed a multiple-point explosive breach, rescuing one student while tragically losing Emily Keyes. The suspect was also neutralized during the operation. Youth With a Mission (YWAM): While serving as a patrol sergeant, Deputy Chief DeAndrea responded to this shooting, which left four victims shot—two fatally. He coordinated the entry, evacuation of victims, and SWAT’s subsequent search for the suspect. The gunman later resurfaced in Colorado Springs, killing two more victims at New Life Church before taking his own life. Deputy Chief DeAndrea concludes by reflecting not only as a law enforcement leader but also as a father. His daughter survived the 2018 Borderline Bar & Grill mass shooting in Thousand Oaks, California, giving him a deeply personal understanding of the lasting impact of these tragedies. These experiences have shaped the development of the Eight Pillars of Awareness and Preparation, a framework designed to help communities and agencies prevent, respond to, and manage active shooter incidents more effectively. Mindset and Tactical Decision-Making This presentation provides a powerful exploration of the mindset required to effectively respond to active school violence and other critical incidents. Drawing from first-hand experiences in three of the most defining active shooter tragedies in modern history—Columbine High School, Platte Canyon High School, and Youth With A Mission (YWAM)—Deputy Chief AJ DeAndrea (Ret.) delivers an authentic, boots-on-the-ground perspective that few can offer. AJ shares the hard-learned lessons of operating in life-or-death environments where decisions must be made in seconds, often with incomplete information and under extreme stress. Central to this discussion is the P.I.E. Tactical Decision-Making Matrix—Priorities, Intelligence, and Environment—a framework he created for SWAT team leaders and later adopted as the operational philosophy for his agency. This decision-making tool provides responders with clarity and structure in the midst of chaos, ensuring that actions remain focused, adaptable, and effective. Beyond tactical decision-making, AJ emphasizes the mindset of resilience and leadership that today’s law enforcement professionals must adopt. He examines the psychological toll of these events on responders, survivors, and communities, underscoring the critical need for cultivating mental toughness and fostering a positive mental health culture within agencies. This presentation equips participants with insights that transcend tactics—lessons on leadership, adaptability, and recovery that can be taken back to their own agencies and applied in daily operations. AJ also shares his personal journey, including his perspective as a father whose oldest daughter survived the 2018 Borderline Bar & Grill mass shooting in Thousand Oaks, California. This lived experience reinforces the importance of preparedness not only as professionals, but as parents, community members, and leaders. Learning Outcomes Participants will leave this presentation able to: Apply the P.I.E. Tactical Decision-Making Matrix to real-world situations. Understand how mindset influences performance and decision-making under stress. Incorporate lessons learned from Columbine, Platte Canyon, and YWAM into their own agency training and culture. Foster resilience and strengthen mental health practices within their organizations. Lead with clarity and conviction during times of crisis. Reintegration: Supporting Law Enforcement Through Critical Incident Recovery This presentation provides an in-depth exploration of reintegration and recovery for law enforcement professionals following critical incidents. Drawing from decades of experience responding to high-profile active shooter events—including Columbine High School, Platte Canyon High School, and Youth With A Mission (YWAM)—Deputy Chief AJ DeAndrea (Ret.) shares firsthand insights into the mental health challenges faced by officers and first responders in the aftermath of trauma. Deputy Chief DeAndrea emphasizes the three obligations of leadership to their personnel: Preparation: Ensuring employees are mentally, tactically, and emotionally ready before a critical incident occurs. This includes instilling the right mindset, providing realistic training, equipping personnel with appropriate tactics and tools, and fostering confidence in their ability to perform under pressure. Presence: Being fully engaged and supportive during and immediately after the incident. Leaders must provide guidance, insight, and reassurance, advocating for their team while ensuring facts and circumstances are carefully assessed. Sustained Support: Helping personnel navigate the long-term effects of critical incidents and supporting their continued growth throughout their careers. Leaders play a vital role in ensuring employees feel valued, understood, and capable of reintegration into their teams and communities. The presentation introduces a three-pronged reintegration program designed to facilitate recovery and organizational resilience: Administrative Oversight: Structured processes and policies to guide individual’s post incident management and accountability. Departmental Support: Peer and leadership engagement to provide emotional support, mentorship, and team cohesion. Personal Growth: Individual-focused strategies for mental health, resiliency, and professional development, ensuring that affected personnel can reintegrate successfully and continue to thrive in their careers. Through this framework, participants will learn practical strategies to re-onboard and socialize personnel impacted by critical incidents, build organizational resilience, and foster a culture that prioritizes mental health, tactical readiness, and long-term success. Deputy Chief DeAndrea combines tactical expertise with a profound understanding of the psychological impact of trauma, offering leaders actionable tools to guide their teams safely through crisis and beyond. Learning Outcomes Participants will be able to: Understand the three obligations of leadership in preparing, supporting, and sustaining personnel through critical incidents. Implement the three-pronged reintegration program at an administrative, departmental, and personal level. Apply lessons learned from high-profile incidents to strengthen mental health support, resilience, and team cohesion. Develop strategies to support personnel in navigating trauma, maintaining operational readiness, and continuing professional growth. The Tenets of P.I.E.: A Tactical Decision-Making Matrix Deputy Chief AJ DeAndrea (Ret.) held leadership roles during three school shootings that forever changed the fabric of American society and transformed law enforcement’s response to active shooter incidents worldwide: Columbine High School, Platte Canyon High School, and the Youth With A Mission (YWAM) shootings. These pivotal events, along with extensive realworld experience, form the foundation of the P.I.E. Tactical Decision-Making Matrix—a framework now utilized by law enforcement agencies, school districts, and corporations worldwide to guide decision-making under pressure. The P.I.E. Matrix—Priorities, Intelligence, and Environment—was originally developed by Deputy Chief DeAndrea to help officers make solid, life-saving decisions in high-stress situations. It was then introduced to SWAT team leaders and later adopted as an operational philosophy across multiple agencies. The framework emphasizes: Priorities – identifying and focusing on the most critical objectives during an incident. Intelligence – gathering, assessing, and applying actionable information to make informed tactical decisions. Environment – adapting to the dynamic circumstances, terrain, and situational factors in real time. This decision-making tool provides responders with clarity, structure, and adaptability in the midst of chaos, ensuring actions remain focused, coordinated, and effective. Beyond tactical applications, P.I.E. serves as a universal framework for leadership, crisis management, and organizational preparedness, empowering individuals and teams to navigate uncertainty with confidence and precision. Through examples from Columbine, Platte Canyon, YWAM, and other real world incidents participants gain rare insight into how this framework has been applied in life-or-death situations, offering practical lessons that can be implemented across agencies, organizations, and communities to strengthen decision-making, leadership, and resilience. BOOK NOW Testimonials Review 1 Review 2 Review 3 "At the FBI National Academy, we had the honor of hearing from A.J. DeAndrea and Madalena DeAndrea, who shared powerful stories that deeply resonated with all of us. A.J., a seasoned expert in active shooter response, provided insights from his experiences, including his response to the Columbine tragedy and other critical incidents. His daughter, Madalena, courageously recounted her survival during the Borderline Bar & Grill shooting in California. Her story of resilience and the life-saving lessons she learned from her father are nothing short of inspirational." -Scott Hughes, Chief of Police, Hamilton Township, Warren County, OH (via LinkedIn ) Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY AJ DeAndrea is a nationally recognized law enforcement veteran with over 30 years of experience in tactical operations, school safety, and crisis response. As a SWAT Team leader and first responder to multiple high-profile active shooter events—including Columbine High School, Platte Canyon High School, and the Youth With a Mission/New Life Church shootings—AJ brings unmatched firsthand insight into critical incident management. He is the founder and CEO of Centurio Training and Consulting, where he provides specialized training for schools, law enforcement, and organizations across the country. AJ is known for bridging the gap between tactical response and school-based preparedness, emphasizing collaboration, communication, and decisive action under pressure. His signature keynote, Dark Nights of the Soul: When Terror Hits Home, delivers powerful lessons from real-world experiences and equips audiences with practical tools for crisis planning and response. AJ’s work has been recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and other national agencies, and he continues to serve as a trusted advisor on school safety and emergency readiness. His training style is clear, compelling, and rooted in lived experience—making him one of the most sought-after voices in school safety today. Book AJ TODAY!

Madalena DeAndrea is a compelling voice in the conversation around school safety, resilience, and trauma-informed leadership. Her dynamic presentations empower students, educators, and administrators to proactively navigate crisis, recovery, and mental wellness with confidence and clarity. By blending real-world experience with practical strategies, Madalena helps organizations move beyond fear toward a culture of preparedness and emotional strength. Her message resonates deeply with audiences seeking not just awareness, but meaningful, actionable change. WHY Book Madalena FOR YOUR EVENT? “ One of the most unique and inspiring voices in school safety today, Madalena DeAndrea shares her personal and lived experiences with a kind of bravery and pure intention few people can come close to demonstrating in their lifetime. From growing up as the daughter of a police officer to surviving a deadly mass shooting, DeAndrea reflects thoughtfully on her own heroic journey forward, finding purpose in pain and healing through helping. Nowa lauded public speaker, Madalena delivers powerful inspiration and practical takeaways to all who hear her message.” —Michele Gay, Founder & Executive Director , Safe and Sound Schools WHO Books Madalena ? Madalena’s expertise makes her a valuable speaker for schools and organizations seeking to foster resilience, emotional preparedness, and a culture of safety. Her unique approach equips communities to respond to trauma with strength and purpose while promoting proactive strategies for mental wellness and crisis recovery. Recent audiences include: Jeffco Public Schools FBI National Academy at Quantico Safe and Sound Schools Virtual National Summit on School Safety National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO) Add your school or organization to the list of those inspired by Madalena - book her today! BOOK TODAY MADALENA DEANDREA Borderline Bar and Grill Shooting Survivor & Resiliency Advocate BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Madalena TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! SPEAKER Topics Include Safety & Security Culture, Climate, & Community Operations & Emergency Management Violence prevention Strategies Emergency Preparedness & Response Active Shooter Preparedness & Response Recovery & Resilience After Trauma Turning Pain into Purpose Lessons Learned from Tragedy Signature PRESENTATIONS Click on the titles to learn more about each signature presentation and fill out the form below to book for your next event. A Hero's Daughter; A Survivor's Journey What if the skills that help us survive life's darkest moments can be learned long before crisis ever occurs? In this unforgettable keynote, resiliency advocate, active shooting survivor, Director of School Safety, and nationally recognized speaker Madalena DeAndrea shares the extraordinary journey that shaped her understanding of resilience. From growing up as the daughter of a law enforcement leader who helped redefine America's response to school shootings to surviving the 2018 mass shooting at the Borderline Bar & Grill in Thousand Oaks, California, her story is a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit. Rather than focusing solely on tragedy, Madalena reveals the protective factors, practical skillsets, and powerful mindsets that prepared her to respond under unimaginable circumstances and ultimately fueled her journey of post traumatic growth. Blending deeply personal storytelling with evidence-informed resilience strategies and lessons learned from years of leading school safety and preparedness initiatives, she demonstrates that resilience is not something we are born with. It is something we intentionally build. Audience members will leave inspired and equipped with practical tools to strengthen themselves, support the people they love, and cultivate more resilient families, workplaces, and communities before crisis ever occurs. Through hope, authenticity, and actionable insights, Madalena reminds us that while we cannot always choose what happens to us, we can choose how we prepare, how we respond, and who we become in the aftermath. Resilience Readiness: Preparing for Post-Traumatic Growth In this interactive and practical session, resiliency advocate, active shooting survivor, Director of School Safety, and nationally recognized speaker Madalena DeAndrea explores how individuals and communities can intentionally build protective factors before crisis occurs. Madalena breaks down what protective factors are, how they function in everyday life, and why they are essential in shaping outcomes during moments of extreme stress and in supporting healing in the aftermath. Drawing from both her lived experience as a survivor of the 2018 Borderline Bar & Grill active shooting and her professional expertise in school safety, she translates the often overwhelming work of preparing for crisis into clear, actionable steps that can be applied immediately in personal, professional, and community settings. At the center of this session are Madalena’s five guiding questions, designed to help individuals, teams, and organizations identify, strengthen, and actively build protective factors in advance of crisis. These questions create a practical framework for reflection and action, focused on readiness, connection, and resilience long before adversity occurs. Participants will leave with a clearer understanding of how protective factors are developed, how they can be strengthened over time, and how intentional choices today can significantly influence safety, stability, and resilience in the future, strengthening the potential for post-traumatic growth in the aftermath. Dark Nights of the Soul: When Terror Hits Home Deputy Chief AJ DeAndrea (Retired) was in a leadership role in three school shootings that changed the fabric of American society and police response to active shootings around the world. He takes a deep dive into these tragic events and more importantly analyzes the positive things that came from them in decision making, improved tactics, and mental health practices. Most importantly, he is accompanied by his oldest daughter, Madalena DeAndrea, who survived the Borderline active shooting incident in Thousand Oaks, CA in 2018. Madalena, a current Director of School Safety with Jeffco Public Schools Department of School Safety in Colorado shares how the protective factors she learned growing up the daughter of a law enforcement officer, ultimately saved her life. She shares her insights as a survivor of an active shooting, and her choice to experience post-traumatic growth following an experience of evil. AJ and Madalena passionately speak from the perspective of having been inside the building during the aforementioned active shootings. These events have led to the creation of their Eight Pillars of Preparedness that can help prevent active shootings from occurring or help stop and manage them more effectively if one is to kick off in your jurisdiction. Through the Eyes of a Survivor: A Retrospective Threat Assessment of the Borderline Shooter In this powerful and deeply reflective session, resiliency advocate, active shooting survivor, Director of School Safety, and nationally recognized speaker Madalena DeAndrea examines the 2018 Borderline Bar & Grill shooting through the lens of modern behavioral threat assessment. Madalena reviews the shooter’s background, known risk factors, and behavioral indicators leading up to the attack, as well as key actions during the incident. She then places this analysis alongside her own lived experience, highlighting the protective factors that shaped her response and ultimately contributed to her survival. By comparing these two parallel paths, Madalena helps audiences understand how risk factors can escalate without intervention, and how protective factors can change outcomes. This session provides practical insight into early warning signs, prevention strategies, and the importance of building stronger protective environments in schools, workplaces, and communities. BOOK NOW Review 1 Review 2 “[Madalena DeAndrea’s keynote] was my favorite part of the conference. It truly was one of the most impactful things I have ever heard.” —Student, Jeffco Public Schools “Madalena was fantastic. Her presentation has left a resounding impact on me and although she doesn't claim to be an expert, she is truly a blessing. We use the protocols in place and I'm hoping my schools are on board to bringing her in to do a countywide training with her as the presenter.” —Attendee, 2023 Iowa Homeland Security Conference Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY Madalena DeAndrea is an active shooting survivor, resiliency advocate, and the oldest daughter of Deputy Chief AJ DeAndrea (retired). The backdrop of Madalena’s childhood was her father’s historic law enforcement career which included serving in a leadership role in three school shootings that changed the fabric of American society and police response to active shootings around the world. A Colorado Native, Madalena received her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Strategy from the University of Colorado Boulder in 2018. During her time at CU, she served as Student Body President for her 30,000 classmates which gave her the unique opportunity to directly manage a $24 million budget, lead a 500-person organization, speak to crowds of 8,000+ people, and work with world leaders like His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Vice President Joe Biden. Following her undergraduate studies, Madalena worked for a non-profit in Los Angeles, CA. While serving in this role she went out for a night of dancing with her friends at Borderline Bar and Grill and the unthinkable happened - a gunman came in and started shooting. Using the skillsets and mindsets she learned growing up, Madalena was able to find safety in the attic above the bar where she stayed for the remainder of the tragedy as 12 people, including responding Police Officer Sgt. Ron Helus, were killed. After surviving the Borderline tragedy, Madalena made a choice to not let evil win and to be a force for good in the world. After serving for four years as an Emergency Management Specialist for Jeffco Public Schools, the School District she grew up in, Madalena now proudly serves as the Senior Manager of Strategic Projects, Recovery, & Resiliency for Jeffco. In this first-of-its-kind position, Madalena supports the proactive implementation of strategic safety initiatives and recovery planning prior to crisis occurring. She is a certified Threat Liaison Officer for the state of Colorado and is trained in CPTED, CIT, FEMA’s Incident Command Series and Professional Development Series, and Single Officer Response to an Active Shooter. In her spare time, Madalena travels the country telling her story and sharing her message of hope, resiliency, and post-traumatic growth with law enforcement agencies, school districts, businesses, and community organizations. Madalena is passionate about empowering individuals and communities with the mindsets and tools needed to build resiliency even in the face of life’s uncertainties! Book Madalena TODAY! Testimonials

Dr. Stephanie Grant is a dedicated advocate for trauma-informed school communities, helping educators and professionals understand how early adversity shapes behavior, learning, and development. With expertise in neurodevelopment, attachment, and the effects of trauma—alongside personal experience as a foster and adoptive parent—she brings both professional and lived insight to every audience she serves. Dr. Grant challenges schools to move beyond surface-level supports and embrace practices rooted in compassion, connection, and brain science. Through her engaging presentations, she equips teams to better support students with complex needs, making her an essential resource for any school, district, or conference seeking professional development in these areas. WHY Book Stephanie Grant FOR YOUR EVENT? “Dr. Stephanie Grant is one of a kind. Her ability to break down complex topics like childhood trauma and neurodevelopment into approachable, easy-to-understand concepts — then translate them into actionable strategies —is a true gift. Paired with her personal experience and deep insights into mental health and trauma-informed care, she’s a powerful resource for any school, district, or conference seeking professional development in these areas.” - Michele Gay, Founder and Executive Director, Safe and Sound Schools WHO Books Stephanie Grant ? strategies, and a clear commitment to helping adults better understand and support children impacted by trauma. Her presentations cover topics such as trauma-informed education, neurodevelopment and behavior, attachment and regulation, and creating supportive environments for students from foster care and adoption backgrounds. Recent audiences Stephanie has spoken to include: Michigan School Safety Academy Up North Child Abuse Council Clarkston Community Schools Ottawa Area ISD Social Workers Imlay City Schools Warren Woods Christian School Add your school or organization to the list of those educated by Stephanie - book her today! BOOK TODAY DR. STEPHANIE GRANT Developmental Psychologist, Neurodevelopment and Trauma Expert BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Stephanie Grant TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! Learn more about Dr. Stephanie Grant's full offering of trainings , ranging from Neurodevelopmental Trauma to Strategies to Support Regulation in a Classroom Setting, Supporting the Child-Parent Relationship Impacted by Substance Abuse, and so much more. SPEAKER Topics Include Mental & Behavioral Health Culture, Climate, & Community Suicide Prevention & Mental Health Support Identifying & Supporting At-Risk Students Intervention Strategies Trauma-Informed Practices Childhood Trauma & Adverse Experiences Signature PRESENTATIONS Click on the titles to learn more about each signature presentation and fill out the form below to book for your next event. Understanding Neurodevelopmental Trauma 2-6 hours This session introduces participants to the concept of neurodevelopmental trauma, explaining what it is, how it develops, and the ways it can shape a child’s or adult’s behavior and overall functioning. Through this training, participants will gain foundational knowledge to recognize the effects of trauma on development and better understand the underlying causes of challenging behaviors. Strategies for Supporting Trauma-Impacted Students In this training, Dr. Grant will provide an overview of what trauma is, how it impacts the brain, and why different strategies for behavior management are often needed for consistent success. Strategies for supporting regulation and managing common behavioral concerns for this population will be presented. While strategies for more escalated out of classroom management will be covered, more focus will be placed on strategies that can be used in the classroom and around other students with minimized disruptions. Attendees will leave with a better understanding of how and why these students function as they do and with several practical strategies that can be immediately used in the classroom. Learning Objectives Participants will learn at least 2 ways trauma impacts neurology. Participants will what happens when a brain is "triggered". Participants will learn ways to identify through observation what level of stress a student is at Participants will learn at least 2 strategies for managing crisis behaviors. Participants will learn at least 2 strategies for managing non-crisis disruptive behaviors. Participants will learn at least 2 strategies for supporting regulation and preventing disruptive behaviors. Strategies to Support Neurodevelopmental Trauma 2-4 hours In this session, participants will explore practical strategies for both preventing and responding to the effects of neurodevelopmental trauma. Emphasis is placed on addressing difficult behaviors that may arise unexpectedly—whether during calm periods or in more clearly distressing moments—offering tools to support children in a variety of real-world situations. BOOK NOW Testimonials Review 1 Review 2 Review 3 "It's all so valuable, no matter how you are involved with children, either in your personal or professional career. Dr. Grant offers so much insight and help for working with children affected by trauma and how those traumatic pieces of their life can impact how they react to everything around them." "One of my favorite things was the authenticity of the training. It didn't feel like it was just words from best practice books, it was sincere and so genuine." Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY Stephanie Grant is a Developmental Psychologist and is licensed as a Professional Counselor. She has separate Master’s degrees in Marriage and Family Therapy and Psychology and a PhD in Lifespan Development Psychology. She is also encored as an Infant Mental Health Specialist. Her clinical and research interests focus on working with infants and children with attachment concerns and trauma histories, specifically those who have adoption or foster care backgrounds. Dr. Grant has worked as a clinician, professor, and researcher and has provided professional development and support services for community organizations and schools around the world. Stephanie brings an extensive and varied background to her work. Not only has the topic of trauma and neurodevelopment been a significant part of her career, as a foster and adoptive parent, she also understands how the research translates into day-to-day experiences for the adults that work with children with these histories. Dr. Grant has a passion for her work. It is not just what she does, it’s a part of who she is. Whether it’s working with kids and their families, or teaching college students, providing trainings to adults, or advocating for changes to systems, she looks forward to the task. Book Stephanie Grant TODAY!

Featured AVAILABLE TO BOOK EXCLUSIVELY THROUGH THE SAFE AND SOUND SPEAKERS BUREAU Katey McPherson is a trusted voice in digital wellness and youth risk prevention, known for her ability to connect the complex realities of students’ online lives with real-world safety and mental health outcomes. With more than 30 years of experience as a teacher, counselor, school administrator, and consultant, she brings both depth and practicality to every conversation. What sets Katey apart is her focus on the intersection of digital behavior, emotional wellbeing, and emerging safety risks—helping schools and communities recognize early warning signs and respond effectively. Her work equips educators, parents, and safety professionals with actionable strategies to support students in a rapidly evolving digital landscape, making her an essential partner in building safer, more informed communities. WHY Book Katey FOR YOUR EVENT? “Katey inspired my faculty to be more creative and innovative in their approach to students. As technology becomes ever-present in children’s lives, her wisdom helps educators and parents better understand the developing brain and how to support students effectively.”
 — Veronica Leiper, Principal, Sequoya Elementary WHO Books Katey ? Katey’s ability to translate the complexities of students’ digital lives into clear, actionable insight has made her a highly sought-after speaker on digital wellness, youth mental health, and safety. Known for her practical, relatable approach, she helps audiences understand how online behavior can signal deeper emotional needs and potential risks. Katey equips educators, parents, and safety professionals with tangible strategies to recognize warning signs, strengthen communication, and support early intervention. She is an ideal choice for schools, communities, and organizations committed to navigating today’s digital landscape while creating safer, more responsive environments for young people. Recent audiences include: Rotary Club of Queen Creek Sequoya Elementary Valley Christian Schools Add your school or organization to the list of those inspired by Katey McPherson - book her today! BOOK TODAY KATEY MCPHERSON Digital Wellness Coach BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Katey TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! SPEAKER Topics Include Mental & Behavioral Health Bullying & Cyberbullying Prevention Digital Safety & Online Threats Sexual Abuse Prevention School Shooters: Profiles & Prevention Violence Prevention Strategies Signature PRESENTATIONS Click on the titles to learn more about each signature presentation and fill out the form below to book for your next event. The Digital Landscape of Student Safety and Digital environments are shaping how young people think, feel, and behave in ways that are deeply connected to their well-being and safety. From social media and online communities to gaming and group chats, today’s students are navigating a constant flow of influence—both positive and harmful. This session explores how these digital spaces impact student mental health, decision-making, and school safety, while equipping adults with practical, prevention-focused strategies to respond with awareness, connection, and care. Grounded in real-world insights and current trends, this presentation offers a clear lens into the online experiences students are having every day—and what educators, families, and communities can do to better support them before concerns escalate. Fitting In Is Not Belonging: The Missing Layer in School Safety In nearly every case of school violence, there were warning signs — subtle shifts in behavior, concerning digital activity, or comments dismissed as jokes. Yet despite increased security measures, many of these signals are still missed. This session reframes school safety through a critical but often overlooked lens: belonging as a prevention strategy. Designed specifically for School Resource Officers (SROs) and safety professionals, this keynote explores the difference between students who are merely “fitting in” and those who truly feel connected. Participants will examine how behavioral compliance can mask distress, while authentic connection increases early disclosure, improves intelligence flow, and enables earlier intervention. Grounded in real-world safety patterns and informed by the work of Dr. Steve Webb and Brené Brown, this session provides practical, actionable strategies to identify concerning behaviors, interpret digital signals, and strengthen relationships that interrupt escalation. Attendees will leave with a clear understanding of how connection, communication, and consistency serve as critical tools in preventing violence — and how SROs are uniquely positioned to build the relationships that make early intervention possible. Learning Objectives Participants will be able to: Identify the difference between behavioral compliance (“fitting in”) and relational connection (“belonging”) and its impact on threat detection Recognize early warning signs and behavioral patterns associated with escalation toward violence Analyze how social media and digital behavior function as early indicators of risk Apply practical strategies to increase student disclosure and improve intelligence gathering through relationship-building Implement tactical approaches to strengthen collaboration between SROs, school staff, and families Growing Up Online: Why Student Risk Has Changed Today’s youth are growing up in a world of constant connectivity, where social media, gaming, and digital communication shape not only how they interact—but how they experience stress, relationships, and risk. This session explores how these platforms can amplify peer conflict, increase pressure, and influence decision-making, often in ways that extend far beyond the screen. Through a practical and prevention-focused lens, participants will gain insight into the digital dynamics impacting young people every day—and learn how to better support, guide, and connect with youth as they navigate an increasingly complex online world. BOOK NOW Review 1 Review 2 “Katey McPherson is a dynamic and knowledgeable speaker whose deep understanding of today’s youth and the need for mental wellness advocacy made her an invaluable partner for our Rotary Club of Queen Creek's Raising Resilient Kids event. Her tremendous insight, community connections, and engaging presence helped us deliver meaningful programs that truly resonated with parents and students alike.”
 — Brenda Brandhorst, Rotary Club of Queen Creek “Katey brings exceptional knowledge about building resilience in children and raises crucial awareness for parents about the digital challenges our kids face today. Her insights are both eye-opening and practical, helping families navigate the complex online world our children are growing up in.”
 — Jason Herbert, Community Member Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY Katey McPherson is a digital wellness advocate and educator specializing in the intersection of student behavior, digital environments, and school safety. With more than 30 years of experience as a teacher, guidance counselor, school administrator, and educational consultant, she brings a multidisciplinary perspective to youth risk identification, digital behavior analysis, and school-based intervention strategies. Recognizing gaps in traditional approaches to student wellness and safety, Katey developed a framework that integrates digital behavior patterns, mental health indicators, and school threat assessment practices. She currently serves as Director of Community Outreach for a leading school safety app and has led community and statewide initiatives focused on youth suicide prevention, teen violence prevention, and mental health advocacy throughout Arizona. Katey is the proud mother of four teenage daughters, a role she considers her most important. Book Katey TODAY! Testimonials