This Fall, we're bringing together an exciting lineup of learning and training opportunities focused on behavioral threat assessment, prevention, digital safety, and more. Each event is designed to strengthen your knowledge and help you build toward the 2nd Annual International Prevent Conference in January 2027, where you'll learn from some of the most trusted voices in threat assessment.   Road to PREVENT MAP YOUR PROFESSIONAL LEARNING JOURNEY This Fall, we're bringing together an exciting lineup of learning and training opportunities focused on behavioral threat assessment, prevention, digital safety, and more. Each event is designed to strengthen your knowledge and help you build toward the 2nd Annual International Prevent Conferenc e in January 2027, where you'll learn from some of the most trusted voices in threat assessment. With opportunities taking place across the country, you can map your own professional learning journey and join us on the road to Prevent. Scroll down to learn more about each event and to download ready-to-use flyers, social graphics, and other resources to share the Road to Prevent with your network. Let's keep our school communities moving toward prevention — together! Events Along the Road: Choose Your Stops Rethink Comprehensive School Safety Dallas-Fort Worth, TX I October 21-22, 2026 Join school safety leaders for two days of learning, collaboration, and practical strategies designed to strengthen behavioral threat assessment and violence prevention in K–12 schools. Explore emerging trends, proven practices, and actionable approaches that help build safer, more resilient school communities. You'll leave with ideas and resources you can immediately apply throughout the school year. LEARN MORE Advance Modern Violence Prevention New York City, NY I October 28-29, 2026 The BTAM Symposium at Lincoln Center convenes federal agency leaders and nationally recognized experts to explore the future of behavioral threat assessment and violence prevention. Through timely updates, emerging research, and evidence-informed strategies, you'll gain insight into today's evolving threat landscape and the innovations shaping tomorrow's school safety practices. LEARN MORE Transform Your School Safety Strategy Phoenix, AZ I December 3-5, 2026 Co-hosted by Safe and Sound Schools and NASRO, this national summit brings together educators, school resource officers, administrators, and safety professionals committed to protecting school communities. Discover practical strategies to strengthen prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery while building the multidisciplinary partnerships that make comprehensive school safety possible. LEARN MORE Deepen Your Prevention Expertise Dallas-Fort Worth, TX I January 6-8, 2027 Hosted in partnership with Safer Schools Together, the 2nd Annual International PREVENT Conference is dedicated exclusively to advancing behavioral threat assessment and management in K–12 schools. Explore current research, real-world case studies, and proven practices while connecting with practitioners leading the field. Whether you're developing a new BTAM program or refining an established one, you'll leave with practical insights to strengthen prevention efforts in your school or district. LEARN MORE Conference Partners Share the Road Download ready-to-use flyers, social graphics, and other resources to share the Road to Prevent with your network. Help us build momentum, bring more voices into the conversation, and keep communities moving toward prevention. DOWNLOAD NOW Continue Your Journey As we make our way down the Road to Prevent, there’s always more to learn. Join us for these free, virtual webinars featuring experts from across the spectrum of student safety and well-being. Gain new insights, explore practical strategies, and build your knowledge alongside a community committed to preventing violence and creating safer schools. Join us Monday, September 14th to explore how an integrated approach to prevention can help meet students’ needs, strengthen protective factors, and create the conditions for lasting safety and well-being. REGISTER TODAY Join survivors Missy Dodds and Allison Willemin on Wednesday, September 23rd for a conversation on what it means to support individuals and communities through the long-term process of healing. REGISTER TODAY Partner with Safe and Sound Schools TO BRING A SUMMIT TO YOUR COMMUNITY Interested in bringing a Safe and Sound Schools Summit to your area? Please complete the form below, and a member of our team will be in touch soon!

Safe and Sound Schools is a national non-profit organization dedicated to supporting school crisis prevention, response, and recovery, aiming to protect every school and every student, every day. Founded by parents who lost children at Sandy Hook, we provide research-based tools and resources to help school communities improve safety and security. OUR MISSION SPEAKERS TRAINING EVENTS NATIONAL & REGIONAL Events Explore our events featuring top school safety experts on today's most critical topics. VIEW ALL EVENTS SCHOOL SAFETY Trainings PROGRAMS & TRAINING Explore our school safety programs, download free resources, or contact us for training opportunities. DYNAMIC Speakers Our school safety advocates and experts deliver practical knowledge and engaging content to educate your community. From keynotes to workshops, our speakers adapt to your event's unique needs. OUR SPEAKERS GROWING OUR Mission Our mission is to support school crisis prevention, response, and recovery, and to protect every school and every student, every day. SEE OUR STORY PROGRAMS & Training BRIGHT FUTURES PATHWAYS FOR PREVENTION ESPECIALLY SAFE AVERTED SCHOOL VIOLENCE PROJECT SAFE AND SOUND INSTITUTE STAYING SAFE 31,260 Viewed from all 50 States and 163 Countries TOOLKITS 16,600,000 Impacted by Safe and Sound Schools® Worldwide STUDENTS 32,000 Reached through Education, Trainings, and Resources SCHOOLS MAKING AN Impact Michele’s outstanding keynote address was well received by the 800+ School Resource Officers in attendance and it truly set the stage for a powerful close to our National School Safety Conference. – Mo Canady, Executive Director, National Association of School Resource Officers Michele’s presentations to parents, educators, and policy makers provide the perfect balance of emotion and practical guidance. She promotes an approach to school safety that strikes the important balance between physical and psychological safety. Her efforts have helped to ensure schools have comprehensive safety and crisis plans, with special attention being given to reunification and recovery. – Stephen E. Brock, Ph.D., NCSP, LEP, Past President, National Association of School Psychologists Frank was amazing. I received about 50 texts and emails, all thankful and appreciative. – Jason Stoddard, Director of School Safety and Security, Charles County Public Schools, LaPlata, MD Molly and Frank both did an amazing job. I walked the conference area after each presenter and the word of mouth was incredible. I would also like to add they were both just as amazing with our staff. Mountain State couldn't have asked for two better keynote speakers. We hope our paths cross in the future again! -Troy Alexander, Communications Specialist, Mountain State Educational Service Cooperative "Molly was fantastic! Not sure how else to describe it. I have been told many times that this was the best DARE conference that Iowa has had and some even said it was better than a lot of other law enforcement conferences they have attended. Molly was a big part of what made this conference a huge success and can’t say enough great things about her." -Jason Hoerner, Iowa DARE Association Yes, I just heard Michele Gay speak. A truly inspirational and amazing women giving her accounts of her day of the Sandy Hook shooting. An amazing women willing to share her life changing experience so we can make schools safer. SAFE AND SOUND Speakers Safe and Sound Schools'® panel of school safety experts combine deep practical knowledge with engaging delivery to inspire and educate your school community. OUR SPEAKERS Michele Gay Founder & Executive Director Mother, educator, and co-founder of Safe and Sound Schools, Michele Gay chose to take action after losing her daughter Josephine Grace...READ MORE Go Frank DeAngelis Former Principal, Columbine HS Go Frank DeAngelis, retired principal of Columbine High School, served as an educator for the Jeffco School District in Littleton Colorado...READ MORE Molly Hudgens School Counselor Go On September 28, 2016, Molly Hudgens, a school counselor in Pleasant View, Tennessee, averted a school shooting when...READ MORE CHECK OUT OUR Events “This was the best training I have ever been to. Thank you for doing what you do!” – Patrick L., Attendee & School Resource Officer SEE ALL EVENTS THE SOUND OFF Podcast LISTEN NOW PREVENTION RESPONSE RECOVERY Prevention of school violence is the ultimate goal of Safe and Sound. To view our database of Averted School Violence, click here . In the event that a response is required, Safe and Sound provides a list of valuable resources to help you take action quickly here . The road to recovery is an emotional journey. Safe and Sound is here to support! Learn about upcoming events that prepare you for this here . Supporting Featured Episodes VIEW ALL RESOURCES READ OUR Blog Safe and Sound Leads the Way on Important Topics 1 2 3 4 5 SEE ALL BLOGS Especially Safe: Planning & Preparation Guide Especially Safe: Teaching & Training Guide BTAM & ASD: An e-Guide for Assessing Students on the Autism Spectrum A Parent’s Guide to Fostering Safer Online Practices on Snapchat & Beyond Healthy Digital Environments Straight A Safety Toolkit Safe & Sound Students Parents for Safer Schools Best Practices Armed Assailant Drills SAFE AND SOUND Partners Safe and Sound’s Trusted Partner Network VIEW OUR PARTNERS DOWNLOAD OUR Resources facebook twitter (x) instagram linkedin youtube FOLLOW US ON Social Media Practical School Safety Solutions to Support Individuals with Special Needs Neurodiversity advocate, Jeff Snyder, and Nick Savarise from the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation, join this special episode dedicated to supporting students with autism and other special needs. LISTEN NOW Blueprints of Safety and SROs In this episode, Mo Canady, Executive Director of NASRO, discusses the pivotal role of School Resource Officers in ensuring safe learning environments. LISTEN NOW Grooming 101: Red Flags, Abuse Patterns, and Keeping Kids Safe with Michelle Denault Michele Gay sits down with Michelle Denault, an advocate and survivor, to discuss the realities of grooming, how predators manipulate trust, and how we can build safer environments for our children. LISTEN NOW Testimonials CULTURE, CLIMATE & COMMUNITY Creating a safe and welcoming environment is essential to the safety and success of a school community. CULTURE, CLIMATE & COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP, LAW & POLICY Maintaining school safety includes adhering to federal, state and local laws and regulations. LEADERSHIP, LAW & POLICY OPERATIONS & EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT The policies, protocols, and practices that support safety in day-to-day activity through times of crisis OPERATIONS & EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT SAFETY & SECURITY Ensuring physical safety and security requires knowledge of building use, infrastructure & design, safety & security. SAFETY & SECURITY HEALTH & WELLNESS Promoting the health and wellness of our school community can help us build healthier, safer, and more successful learning environments. HEALTH & WELLNESS MENTAL & BEHAVIORAL HEALTH Strong mental and behavioral health resources and programs are critical to a safe school environment. MENTAL & BEHAVIORAL HEALTH Rethinking SCHOOL SAFETY TOGETHER Explore the Safe and Sound Schools comprehensive framework today. DOWNLOAD THE FRAMEWORK LEARN MORE ©2025 Safe and Sound Schools, All rights reserved. For usage permission, submit a request.

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

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. What's Working in School Safety: Trends, Tools, and Success Stories for the School Year BACK 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. With the school year resuming, educators, parents, and security leaders are asking: how can schools and communities create safe environments that inclusively protect every student? In this special webinar, Michele Gay, Founder and Executive Director of Safe and Sound Schools, shares her personal journey from tragic loss to a path of advocacy, and how her organization is helping schools implement practical, compassionate safety solutions across the country to keep kids and communities safe. Michele is joined by Alana O’Grady, Vice President of Communications and Public Affairs at Verkada, for an in-depth conversation on current safety trends, innovative programs like Especially Safe , and actionable steps to make your school safer.

WHY Book Dave FOR YOUR EVENT? WHO Books Dave ? BOOK TODAY DAVE OKADA President, Association of Threat Assessment Professionals (ATAP) BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Dave TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! SPEAKER Topics Include 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. BOOK NOW Review 1 Review 2 Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY Book Dave TODAY! Testimonials

Featured AVAILABLE TO BOOK EXCLUSIVELY THROUGH THE SAFE AND SOUND SPEAKERS BUREAU Benjamin Fernandez, MS. Ed, is a trusted voice in school mental and behavioral health, crisis response, and student well-being. With an extensive, highly decorated and decades-long career in school psychology in large school districts, he brings a deep understanding of how to support students and staff before, during, and after emergencies. At Safe and Sound Schools, he helps lead national conversations on integrating mental and behavioral health into school safety frameworks. Ben’s presentations are grounded in real-world experience and provide actionable strategies for building trauma-informed, psychologically safe school environments. His ability to connect with educators, administrators, and mental health professionals makes him a powerful advocate and speaker for any school or organization committed to comprehensive school safety. WHY Book Ben FOR YOUR EVENT? “Benjamin Fernandez has been an asset to the Virginia Department of Education. He has presented for the past several years at two of our annual conferences for 300+ school personal, which are attended by school psychologists, school counselors, school social workers, school nurses, and school administrators. He tailors his presentations to meet the needs of the audience, and his sessions are always well attended and well received. Participants come away with practical strategies that they can immediately implement when they return to their schools and/or policies that they can advocate for in their school divisions. Ben is engaging in his presentations, has a wealth of knowledge to share, and is pleasant to work with. He has been a partner with the VDOE to promote comprehensive suicide prevention. He is a member of the Governor’s Children’s Safety Cabinet and was a contributor to our recently adopted Suicide Prevention Guidelines for Virginia Public Schools. I would wholeheartedly recommend Ben Fernandez as a presenter.” -Martha Montgomery, Ed.S., School Psychology Specialist, Virginia Department of Education WHO Books Ben ? Benjamin Fernandez’s expertise in school mental health and crisis response makes him a highly sought-after speaker for schools and organizations across the US and Canada. He is especially recognized for his work in helping communities prepare for, respond to, and recover from traumatic events with a focus on psychological safety and resilience. Recent audiences include: National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) Virginia Department of Education Northwestern Georgia School Psychologists Consortium Deaf School Safety Task Force Gangs, Guns and School Violence Prevention Summit (Vancouver, BC) Midwest School Safety Summit Texas Education Service Centers Add your school or organization to the list of those inspired by Benjamin - book him today! BOOK TODAY BEN FERNANDEZ Lead School Psychologist Northern Virginia School System BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Ben TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! Perspectives on School Crisis Response: Reflections from the Field , co-authored by Ben Fernandez, is available at Barnes & Noble and Amazon . SPEAKER Topics Include Mental & Behavioral Health Health & Wellness Culture, Climate, & Community Crisis Leadership Bullying & Cyberbullying Prevention Suicide Prevention & Mental Health Support Identifying & Supporting At-risk Students Intervention Strategies MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) Leader-care/Self-care Behavioral Threat Assessment & Management Violence Prevention Strategies Staying Safe Best Practices for Drills Emergency Preparedness & Response Trauma-Informed Practices Childhood Trauma & Adverse Experiences Inclusive School Safety Practices 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, Third Edition, Comprehensive School Safety Planning: Prevention Through Recovery In this 1-day workshop participants will learn how to establish and sustain comprehensive school safety efforts that attend to both physical and psychological safety. The workshop addresses critical components needed to develop, exercise, and evaluate safety and crisis teams and plans and conduct building vulnerability assessments. The model also integrates school personnel and community provider roles in providing school-based crisis preparedness and response activities. Additional topics addressed also include media/social media, communication, reunification, students with special needs, culture, and memorials. After this workshop, participants will be better prepared to improve their school’s climate, student resilience, and crisis response capabilities of school personnel. With updated research and strategies, this workshop makes a clear connection between ongoing crisis prevention, mitigation, protection, response, and recovery. PREPaRE Workshop 1, Training of Trainers, Third Edition, Comprehensive School Safety Planning: Prevention Through Recovery This 1.5-day workshop provides participants with the information and practice needed to become a trainer of PREPaRE Workshop 1: Comprehensive School Safety Planning: Prevention Through Recovery. Included in this workshop a one-hour online module addressing logistics of workshop delivery and a 10-hour in-person workshop (1.5 days) addressing how to present the workshop content (with a special emphasis on a standardized delivery). This ToT workshop includes a mandatory pre-test (requiring a 100% pass score), preworkshop activities, interactive online access during the workshop, and a post-test (requiring a 100% pass score). From this session, participants will be provided with the information and practice needed to independently offer the core workshop. All participants receive workshop presentation materials and a certificate of completion. PREPaRE Workshop 2, Third Edition, Mental Health Crisis Interventions: Responding to an Acute Traumatic Stressor in Schools This 2-day workshop develops the knowledge and skill required to provide immediate mental health crisis interventions to the students, staff, and school community members who have been simultaneously exposed to an acute traumatic stressor. The knowledge and skill developed within this session also help to build a bridge to the psychotherapeutic and trauma-informed mental health response sometimes required to address challenges associated with trauma exposure. This workshop is an excellent course for all mental health professionals in your district who provide mental health crisis intervention services. PREPaRE Workshop 2, Training of Trainers, Third Edition, Mental Health Crisis Interventions: Responding to an Acute Traumatic Stressor in Schools This 2-day workshop provides participants with the information and practice needed to become a trainer of PREPaRE Workshop 2: Mental Health Crisis Interventions: Responding to an Acute Traumatic Stressor in Schools. Included in this workshop is a one-hour online module addressing the logistics of workshop delivery and a 13-hour in-person workshop (2 days) addressing how to present the workshop content (with a special emphasis on a standardized delivery). This ToT workshop includes a mandatory pre-test (requiring a 100% pass score), preworkshop activities, interactive online access during the workshop, and a post-test (requiring a 100% pass score). From this session, participants will be provided with the information and practice needed to independently offer the core workshop. All participants receive workshop presentation materials and a certificate of completion. Pathways for Violence Prevention This session equips educators and school staff with actionable strategies to prevent school violence. Participants will explore a Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) framework, learning to implement universal, targeted, and intensive interventions. Through practical application, attendees will: Establish a culture of care within their school community. Learn effective methods for assessing and managing active threats. Gain insights into modules covering crucial topics such as suicide prevention, grief support, emotional awareness, positive behavior supports, threat assessment, bullying intervention, and trauma-informed practices. This program provides a comprehensive approach to fostering student growth, wellness, and safety, ultimately creating a more secure and supportive school environment. Suicide Prevention and Intervention Postvention Responding to Suicide This workshop provides evidence an informed approach for responding to and managing a suicide death within a school community. Participants will gain an understanding of key terms, statistics, and the unique factors surrounding suicide, including contagion, bereavement, stigma, and developmental and cultural differences. The session will then delve into practical strategies for school-based suicide postvention encompassing: Triage, crisis team readiness and experience, effective communication with staff, students, community, and families, and implementing appropriate interventions using the PREPaRE model. Ongoing triage, monitoring students of concern, and supporting school-based teams in the weeks following the incident. Addressing long-term considerations, including anniversaries and other potentially triggering events. Developing self-care plans for individuals, teams, and school staff to mitigate the impact of trauma. This workshop will equip participants with the knowledge and tools necessary to effectively support their school community through the challenging process of suicide postvention. Student Mental Health and School Safety This presentation explores the link between student mental health and school safety. The discussion begins with examining the national landscape of child and adolescent mental health, highlighting pre-pandemic trends and the evolving challenges post-pandemic. Then we discuss common mental health challenges seen in schools, including youth suicide, substance use, and the impact of trauma/ACEs, and analyze how untreated mental health issues affect academic performance, social interactions, and long-term student success. The presentation emphasizes the World Health Organization's definition of mental health and its alignment with educational goals, positioning schools as vital access points for youth mental health support. Next, we explore the essential components of a safe and supportive school environment, including integrated learning and student supports (MTSS), access to mental health services, balanced physical and psychological safety, and positive discipline practices. Finally, we'll delve into practical strategies for promoting mental wellness within schools. This includes identifying key teams, establishing clear goals, utilizing relevant data sources, and implementing MTSS frameworks across Tier 1, 2, and 3 interventions. Through reflection and discussion, participants will gain insights into their school's specific needs and develop actionable steps to foster a mentally healthy and safe learning environment. Crisis Leadership: Integration of the What and the How Effective school crisis leadership requires both a clear understanding of crisis response frameworks and the ability to lead with confidence in complex, high-stakes situations. This session explores the integration of the PREPaRE model with National Preparedness Leadership Initiative’s Metaleadership concept, providing school crisis leaders with a structured approach to what they need to do and how they can lead effectively during a crisis. Participants will examine key components of the PREPaRE model, focusing on evidence-based strategies for crisis prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery. These will be aligned with Metaleadership’s principles, which emphasize leading down (within teams), up (to leadership), and across (to community partners) to build coordination, trust, and adaptive decision-making in crisis situations. A Practitioner's Approach to Evaluating Effectiveness of Crisis Response This presentation focuses on the critical yet often overlooked practice of examining the effectiveness of crisis response, emphasizing its role in data collection and analysis for performance improvement, efficiency, and better service to students and staff. Utilizing the PREPaRE model as a guide, participants will delve into the importance of After Action Reviews (AARs) as a powerful tool for organizational change. AARs, when conducted effectively, provide valuable learning opportunities by comparing expected outcomes with actual results, allowing for adjustments to organizational structures, practices and procedures. This presentation explores the key elements of an AAR, highlighting its purpose as a fact-finding exercise to assess response, intervention, and effectiveness. Despite the infrequent nature of crisis events, AARs are essential for maintaining and improving crisis team performance, informing training, and creating a repository of lessons learned for broader sharing through regular reports and staff communications. By embracing AARs as a constructive feedback mechanism, participants will be able to enhance their crisis response capabilities and continuously improve procedures and strategies. BOOK NOW Review 1 Review 2 "I’ve had the pleasure of working with Ben Fernandez since 2008. With more than 20 years of clinical experience as a school psychologist, Mr. Fernandez has particular interest and expertise in the areas of school crisis prevention and intervention as well as suicide prevention, intervention, and postvention. His work has been instrumental to Loudoun County Public Schools—with individual students and families, school buildings and administrators, as well as systems wide—particularly through his leadership and coordination of division wide crisis response teams. Having a national perspective on these and other topics that are urgent to school psychologists and other educators, Mr. Fernandez has been called on to testify on Capitol Hill and train school systems in NASP’s PREPaRE curriculum. I highly recommend and endorse Mr. Fernandez for what he can offer you and your professional organizations." - Charles Barrett, Ph.D., Loudoun County Public Schools "Ben Fernandez delivered an outstanding presentation to school psychologists on crisis intervention, mental health, and school safety, drawing from his extensive professional experience in emergency response and student counseling. His engaging and knowledgeable approach kept the audience captivated as he shared real-world strategies for handling crises effectively. Mr. Fernandez also facilitated insightful small-group discussions, encouraging participation and practical problem-solving among attendees. His expertise and ability to communicate complex issues in a clear, actionable manner made his session both informative and impactful, leaving school psychologists better equipped to support students in challenging situations." - Amy Diprima, Ph.D. Floyd County Schools Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY Benjamin S. Fernandez, MS. Ed, completed his graduate studies in School Psychology at Bucknell University (Lewisburg, PA) and has worked as a school psychologist in Pennsylvania and Virginia with over 28 years of experience as a practitioner. Currently, he serves as the Director of Mental and Behavioral Health Programs for Safe and Sounds Schools. He previously held the position of crisis intervention specialist in Fairfax County Public Schools, providing leadership and the coordination of crisis intervention services, and response consultation after acute traumatic events. As a lead school psychologist and coordinator in Loudoun County Public Schools, he provided a broad array of psychological and school-based mental health services including assessment, suicide screenings, threat assessments of students and nonstudents, consultation, counseling, prevention, and intervention as well as serving as a crisis team leader. Further, he has conducted presentations on suicide prevention for families as well as helping to establish the collection and review of suicide screening data to enhance processes and identify areas of further prevention and intervention. Additionally, he is a Lead PREPaRE Trainer and has contributed to presentations, articles, books, and webinars related to youth suicide, PREPaRE, school mental health, school safety and crisis intervention on the local, state, and national levels. He has testified before the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions, the Federal Commission on School Safety, the Congressional School Safety Caucus, and served as a member of the Governor of Virginia’s Children’s Cabinet on Student Safety.  Mr. Fernandez contributed to the Virginia Department of Education’s Suicide Prevention Guidelines.  In 2010, he was named School Psychologist of the Year by the Virginia Academy of School Psychologists and in 2012, he was named School Psychologist of the Year by the National Association of School Psychologists. In 2015 and 2018, Benjamin received the NASP Presidential Award and in 2021 received the National Association of School Psychologists Crisis Management and Grief Support in Schools Interest Group Award for Excellence for significant contributions to the field of school safety and crisis intervention. Book Ben TODAY! Testimonials

Doug Hunt serves as the Associate Director of Bright Futures, bringing a powerful blend of lived experience, entrepreneurial leadership, and unwavering hope to his work. A survivor of a traumatic childhood marked by physical and psychological abuse, Doug’s journey is defined by perseverance and a refusal to give up—even in his darkest moments. After enduring profound personal and professional loss following the 2011 Joplin tornado, he launched a consulting practice focused on business coaching and personal development and earning national recognition for his message of resilience. Rooted in gratitude, attitude, and purpose, Doug’s presentations inspire audiences to transform adversity into action. With a pay-it-forward mindset, he equips students, leaders, and communities with practical tools to build hope, cultivate resilience, and pursue lives of meaning and impact. WHY Book Doug FOR YOUR EVENT? “Doug has a vast amount of experience and knowledge that he utilizes to serve those he works with. Doug's ability to speak and give powerful motivational presentations is amazing. I would highly recommend Doug’s presentations.” -Monica Simpson, MLS, MHFA, QPR. Labette Center for Mental Health Services WHO Books Doug ? Doug Hunt connects with audiences through authentic storytelling and practical, relationship-centered strategies that emphasize connection as the foundation of safety and well-being. Drawing on real-world examples and the Bright Futures framework, Doug explores how intentional relationships, inclusive practices, and cross-sector partnerships help identify concerns earlier, reduce isolation, and strengthen student resilience. Attendees leave with actionable tools to deepen engagement, activate community support, and create sustainable systems that promote prevention, trust, and brighter futures for all students. Recent audiences Doug has spoken to include: Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG) Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Young Professionals Network, Leadership Summit National Association of Health Care Assistants Missouri Southern State University (MOSO CAPS) Crowder College Joplin, Neosho, Carthage Area Chambers of Commerce Add your school or organization to the list of those inspired by Doug - book him today! BOOK TODAY DOUG HUNT Childhood Trauma Survivor, Associate Director of Bright Futures Mission Advancement BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Doug TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! SPEAKER Topics Include Culture, Climate, and Community Identifying & Supporting At-Risk Students Suicide Prevention & Mental Health Support Childhood Trauma & Adverse Experiences Lessons Learned from Tragedy Recovery & Resilience After Tragedy Turning Pain into Purpose 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. Against the Odds: One Caring Adult, One Bright Future What happens when a student growing up in chaos encounters just one adult who refuses to give up on them? This powerful and inspiring session shares the personal journey of an individual who overcame a challenging childhood filled with adversity, instability, and barriers that could have defined their future—but didn’t. Through the lens of the Bright Futures framework, attendees will discover how meaningful relationships, community partnerships, and intentional support systems can change the trajectory of a child’s life. This session provides a powerful real-world example of resilience, hope, and the life-changing impact of connection. Safety Starts with Connection: Building a Culture Where Every Student Belongs True school safety begins with relationships, trust, and a shared commitment to belonging. This session explores how strong connections between students, educators, families, and community partners create the foundation for prevention and long-term safety. Participants will examine how everyday interactions, inclusive practices, and intentional relationship-building can identify concerns earlier and strengthen student well-being. Real-world examples demonstrate how connected school communities reduce isolation, improve climate, and foster resilience. Attendees will leave with practical strategies to deepen engagement, strengthen partnerships, and build environments where every student feels seen, supported, and valued. Bright Futures: A Proactive Strategy to Disrupt the Pathway to Violence Violence doesn’t begin at the moment of crisis—it develops along a pathway shaped by unmet needs, disconnection, and missed opportunities for support. This session will examine how Bright Futures serves as a proactive, upstream strategy to disrupt that pathway by intentionally building protective factors and strengthening student connections. From Basic Needs to Bright Futures: Mobilizing Communities to Support Students No school can meet every student need alone — meaningful safety and success require community collaboration. This session highlights the Bright Futures framework as a proven model for connecting schools, businesses, nonprofits, and local leaders around shared responsibility for student well-being. Participants will learn how communities identify real-time needs, mobilize resources, and create systems of support that remove barriers to learning. The presentation showcases how targeted partnerships build trust, strengthen relationships, and generate lasting impact for students and families. Attendees will walk away inspired and equipped to activate their own communities in support of brighter futures for every child. BOOK NOW Testimonials Review 1 Review 2 Review 3 “Doug is an amazing human being. Passionate about helping the world. His caring and warm personality is a beacon for those who search for peace and gratitude. I will forever be grateful for his mentorship.” -Jimmy Burgess, Executive Director, Heartland Canines for Veterans Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY Doug Hunt currently serves as the Associate Director of Bright Futures – Mission Advancement for Safe and Sound Schools. He is a survivor of a traumatic childhood that included both physical and psychological abuse. Choosing never to give up—despite coming dangerously close—Doug went on to excel in high school speech and debate, attend college, and launch an eleven-year career in broadcast television. During that time, he was elected to the Joplin City Council at just 25 years old. At age 33, Doug founded his own advertising agency, employing a team of ten. He and his team generously donated their services to help brand and launch Bright Futures in Joplin, Missouri. However, following the economic impact of the May 2011 EF-5 tornado in Joplin—which claimed 161 lives, including three of Doug’s close friends—he was forced to close the business and file for bankruptcy. Rising from this adversity, Doug started Doug Hunt Consulting, offering business coaching and personal/professional development services. He was later featured as a keynote speaker at the national Business Network International (BNI) conference. His talk, “Closing Your Gap – Gratitude, Attitude & Passion,” gained national recognition after author Peter Hobler, who was in the audience, featured Doug in his book Courage to Find the Fire Within. In 1995, Doug was named one of the Ten Most Outstanding Young Missourians. He has received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Advertising Federation and was honored as Small Business of the Year by the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce. Most recently, he served for five years as the Director of Entrepreneurship for the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce before taking on his current role with Safe and Sound Schools. Doug’s message and presentation are rooted in hope, perseverance, and practical steps for harnessing the scientific power of gratitude. With a “pay-it-forward” mindset, Doug frequently speaks to young students about overcoming darkness and discovering a life filled with purpose and hope. Book Doug TODAY!

The ASV Project provides foundational evidence-based research to support efforts to stop targeted school attacks. Averted School Violence The ASV Project provides foundational evidence-based research to support efforts to stop targeted school attacks. Welcome to The Averted School Violence (ASV) Project. The ASV Project was originally developed at the National Policing Institute under the direction of Dr. Frank Straub, who now serves as the Senior Director of Violence Prevention Research and Programs at Safe and Sound Schools. ASV was established in 2016, with support from the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) , and provides a database of averted and completed school attacks in an access-controlled environment for authorized users – typically school officials, school safety team members, and law enforcement personnel. The database houses hundreds of cases of violence averted, lives saved, and lessons learned in prevention. The ASV Project provides foundational evidence-based research to support efforts to stop targeted school attacks by building sustainable, community-based prevention and intervention services, education, and consultation services. The ASV database is major component of the research pillar of Prevent 2 Protect: The Adolescent Targeted Violence Prevention Project . With funding and support from the Michigan Department of Education, Prevent 2 Protect, a collaboration between Safe and Sound Schools and the Michigan State University Department of Psychiatry is poised to expand, add in-depth case studies, comprehensive analysis, resources, trainings, and annual reports to support Michigan and national school safety efforts in the prevention of school violence. Motorola Solutions Foundation provides financial support to the Averted School Violence Project. Next Item Previous Item

Dr. Stephen Brock delivers powerful, research-driven insights that help schools and organizations strengthen safety, crisis preparedness, and student mental health systems. Known for turning complex psychological frameworks into clear, actionable strategies, his presentations equip educators, administrators, and support staff with tools they can implement immediately. With decades of frontline and academic experience, Dr. Brock offers a uniquely credible and practical perspective that resonates with teams seeking to build resilient, trauma-informed learning environments. His approach is both comprehensive and accessible making him a top choice for institutions serious about improving school safety and student well-being. WHY Book Dr. Brock FOR YOUR EVENT? “Dr. Brock is extremely knowledgeable and has an amazing array of experience. His presentation was comprehensive, yet concise with great anecdotes which helped keep the audience engaged. The content was applicable, relevant and useful, and the whole and small group discussions were helpful. Loved his delivery, personal stories and explanation of information.” —Karen Freidhoff, PhD., Lead Psychologist, Long Beach Unified School District WHO Books Dr. Brock ? Dr. Brock's presentations are characterized by a blend of scholarly rigor and practical application. He engages audiences with evidence-based strategies and real-world examples, aiming to equip school professionals with the tools necessary for effective crisis prevention and response. Recent audiences include: Long Beach Unified School District Add your school or organization to the list of those inspired by Dr. Brock - book him today! BOOK TODAY DR. STEPHEN BROCK Nationally Certified School Psychologist and Licensed Educational Psychologist BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Dr. Brock TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! SPEAKER Topics Include Mental & Behavioral Health Culture, Climate, & Community Leadership, Law, & Policy Bullying & Cyberbullying Prevention Suicide Prevention & Mental Health Support Identifying & Supporting At-Risk Students Identifying & Supporting At-Risk Students Intervention Strategies MTSS (Multi-Tiered Systems of Support) Leader-care/Self-care Behavioral Threat Assessment & Management Violence Prevention Strategies Best Practices for Drills Trauma-Informed Practices Childhood Trauma & Adverse Experiences Inclusive School Safety Practices Special Education Considerations LGBTQ+ Safety 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. Mental Health Matters Available as 3- or 6-hour presentation When it comes to ensuring student success mental health matters. From this session participants will learn about the challenges mental illness presented to our nation's school children. Strategies designed to promote mental wellness are reviewed. Comprehensive School Suicide Prevention Available as 3- or 6-hour presentation Suicide is the second leading cause of death for our nation's teenagers, and rates suicide deaths and suicidal ideation and behavior are increasing. After providing a review of suicide statistics, this session review school suicide prevention, intervention, and postvention. School-Based Crisis Prevention and Intervention Available as 3- or 6-hour presentation This advanced-level workshop is designed to enhance the crisis procedures already in place in your school district. Specifically, this session addresses conducting crisis exercises and drills, strategies for using social media, dealing with the press, and planning memorials. The legal ramifications of crisis response and the spiritual dimensions in the aftermath of a crisis are also explored. PREPaRE Workshop #1 - Comprehensive School Safety Planning: Prevention Through Recovery (3rd Edition) One Day, 6.5-hour 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. PREPaRE Workshop #2 - Mental Health Crisis Interventions: Responding to an Acute Traumatic Stressor in Schools (3rd Edition) Two Day 13-hour 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. BOOK NOW Review 1 Review 2 “Dr. Brock's presentation style was engaging, and the discussions were helpful in processing the information. The thoroughness of his slides and attention to detail were much appreciated. The content was also practical and relevant to current cases and challenges we face in our schools. The resources were great as well, and I am excited to participate in additional trainings with Dr. Brock.” —Karen Freidhoff, PhD., Lead Psychologist, Long Beach Unified School District Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY Dr. Stephen E. Brock is a Professor Emeritus of School Psychology in the College of Education at California State University, Sacramento (CSUS). His professional preparation includes undergraduate and graduate degrees in psychology and a Ph.D. in Education (with an emphasis on psychological studies) from the University of California, Davis, where he researched Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). With an extensive background in school psychology, Dr. Brock brings a wealth of experience to his role as a professor. He spent 18 years as a school psychologist with the Lodi (CA) Unified School District, including a 6-year tenure as Lead Psychologist. His responsibilities included serving multiple elementary and middle schools, contributing to developing the district's school crisis response protocol, and specializing in functional behavioral assessment. Dr. Brock’s influential leadership activities at the state level have included serving as President of the California Association of School Psychologists (CASP). He continues to contribute to CASP as an Executive Advisory Committee member for CASP's peer-reviewed journal, Contemporary School Psychology. His past roles at CASP, including the Region 10 Representative, the Employment Relations Specialist, the Convention Chairperson, and the Spring Conference Chairperson, demonstrate his significant impact on the field. He has also made notable contributions as an editorial board member of CASP Today (the CASP newsletter) and Associate Editor of The California School Psychologist (now known as Contemporary School Psychology). His guest editorship of special issues on "School-Based Threat Assessment" and "Addressing Aggression and Violence in Diverse School Settings" further showcases his leadership and expertise. In recognition of his contributions, he received a CASP Outstanding School Psychologist award in 1997, and in 2012, he was honored with CASP's highest recognition, the Sandra Goff Memorial Award. Dr. Brock has been heavily involved in national-level leadership activities. He served as the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) president and currently holds the position of Associate Editor of the Communiqué (the NASP newspaper). He is also a member of the School Psychology Review Editorial Advisory Board. Dr. Brock was a founding member of NASP’s School Safety and Crisis Response Committee and chaired the Elections & Nominations Committee. Additionally, he previously held roles such as Coordinator of the Crisis Management Interest Group, California representative to the Delegate Assembly (now known as the Leadership Assembly), Western Region Representative to the Executive Council (now known as the Board of Directors), and Secretary. Dr. Brock has received several awards and recognitions, including NASP's Presidential Award in 2004, 2006, and 2016, the Crisis Management Interest Group's Award of Excellence in 2006 and 2007, and a Government and Professional Relations Committee Certificate of Appreciation in 2016. In 2024, he was honored with one of NASP’s highest awards, the Lifetime Achievement Award, for his exceptional services to children and school psychology, particularly in education and mental health services. Dr. Brock's contributions to the field of school psychology extend beyond his professional roles and association leadership. He has authored dozens of peer-reviewed journal articles and book chapters. Notably, he was the lead editor of the NASP publication Best Practices in School Crisis Prevention and Intervention (2nd ed.), the lead author of School Crisis Prevention and Intervention: The PREPaRE Model (2nd ed.), and the lead author of the PREPaRE Mental Health Crisis Intervention (3rd ed) workshop, further solidifying his position as a thought leader in the field, Dr. Brock lectures extensively (both nationally and internationally) on a diverse range of topics, including school safety, traumatic stress, emotional disability, crisis intervention, suicide prevention, professional burnout, ADHD, and special education eligibility. Book Dr. Brock TODAY! Testimonials

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. A Culture of Prevention: Building the Framework to Prevent Crisis BACK 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. 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. Key Takeaways: The importance of recognizing early warning signs that may indicate a student is considering harm to themselves or others. How multidisciplinary teams can provide timely, effective interventions that redirect students toward safety and well-being. Practical crisis prevention and preparedness strategies that help reduce the risk of violence and support student well-being on campus.

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!

From prevention through recovery, Safe and Sound Schools’ national network of experts can help your school or district plan and prepare for safety. Consulting & Technical Assistance From prevention through recovery, Safe and Sound Schools’ national network of experts can help your school or district plan and prepare for safety. From prevention through recovery, Safe and Sound Schools’® national network of experts can help your school or district plan and prepare for safety. With extensive backgrounds and experience in School Psychology, Emergency Planning and Management, School-based Policing, Weather & Disaster Preparedness, Physical Safety, School Culture, Special Education, and more, our subject matter experts combine best practice guidance and real-world application to help you build, customize, and continually refine school safety in your community. Next Item Previous Item