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.

Bring a Safe and Sound Training TO YOUR SCHOOL, DISTRICT OR ORGANIZATION Our expert team is dedicated to empowering school safety stakeholders across the U.S. and beyond with training and tailored consulting. If none of our existing programs are the perfect fit, we also offer customized consulting to help you strengthen your school safety efforts. Please complete the form below to get started, and a member of our team will be in touch soon! Averted School Violence The ASV Project provides foundational evidence-based research to support efforts to stop targeted school attacks. LEARN MORE Bright Futures Bright Futures brings together communities to meet basic needs and create new opportunities for children to thrive. LEARN MORE Comprehensive School Safety Framework The Comprehensive School Safety Framework equips schools with preparedness strategies which address all hazards. LEARN MORE 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. LEARN MORE Especially Safe Especially Safe equips safety planning teams to address the safety and security needs of all members of their community. LEARN MORE PREPaRE Training PREPaRE is the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP), School Crisis prevention and response training curriculum. LEARN MORE Pathways for Prevention Pathways for Prevention provides a practical approach to school violence prevention with universal violence prevention strategies. LEARN MORE Safe and Sound Institute® The Safe and Sound Institute® presents regional summits, workshops, and trainings that to engage and connect all stakeholders to improve school safety. LEARN MORE Staying Safe Staying Safe is an options-based emergency response framework that equips staff and students with a variety of safety skills that they can use in different situations. LEARN MORE Filter Program By Safe & Sound PROGRAMS GET TRAINING

Safe and Sound EVENTS Explore our events featuring top school safety experts on today's most critical topics. HOST AN EVENT “I have never heard from a more inspirational group than I have the last 2 days… I am so thankful to have heard your stories and found them so inspirational. Keep saying the names of the lives lost, keep telling your stories. Thank you!” – Nicole, Attendee EXCLUDE PAST EVENTS Summer Summit on School Safety REGISTER NOW - July 16-17: Join us to connect with national experts, share proven strategies, and explore real-world solutions that help create safer learning environments for every student. Start Now Building Safer Schools: A Three-Part Series on Prevention, Protection, and Resilience Register Now: July 22 | August 19 | September 9: Join us for a three-part school safety series designed to help participants build a strong, sustainable culture of safety on your campus. Start Now Lone Star School Safety Summit on Threat Assessment REGISTRATION OPENING SOON - October 21-22: Join us to learn from nationally recognized speakers, explore best practices, discover programs, and gain actionable insights for the new school year and beyond. Start Now BTAM Symposium at Lincoln Center REGISTER NOW – October 28 & 29: Join us to learn from highly respected voices in the field and gain meaningful insights that will shape the future of school safety. Make plans to attend today! Start Now EVENT HEADLINES BPD Partners with Safe & Sound Schools for Northeast School Safety Summit October 24th through the 25th, the Burlington Police Department teamed up with the organization Safe & Sound Schools to host the Northeast School Safety Summit at the Cafe Escadrille, where professionals from all areas of school safety came together to share information and experience. READ ARTICLE CONTACT US Would you like to speak to us about hosing an event? Contact us. CONTACT US

Safe and Sound EVENTS Explore our events featuring top school safety experts on today's most critical topics. HOST AN EVENT “I have never heard from a more inspirational group than I have the last 2 days… I am so thankful to have heard your stories and found them so inspirational. Keep saying the names of the lives lost, keep telling your stories. Thank you!” – Nicole, Attendee EXCLUDE PAST EVENTS Summer Summit on School Safety REGISTER NOW - July 16-17 Join us to connect with national experts, share proven strategies, and explore real-world solutions that help create safer learning environments for every student. LEARN MORE Building Safer Schools: A Three-Part Series on Prevention, Protection, and Resilience Register Now: July 22 | August 19 | September 9 Join us for a three-part school safety series designed to help participants build a strong, sustainable culture of safety on your campus. LEARN MORE BTAM Symposium at Lincoln Center REGISTER NOW – October 28 & 29 Join us for the premier gathering for school leaders dedicated to advancing safety and modern violence prevention strategies across campuses nationwide. This event is designed to bring together federal agency leaders and nationally recognized experts to deliver critical updates, actionable insights, and innovative, evidence-based solutions. LEARN MORE Lone Star School Safety Summit on Threat Assessment REGISTRATION OPENING SOON - October 21-22 Join us for an impactful and inspiring two-day event. Learn from nationally recognized speakers, explore best practices, discover programs, and gain actionable insights for the new school year and beyond. LEARN MORE INTERNATIONAL SUMMIT ON THREAT ASSESSMENT This event has concluded. Join Safe and Sound Schools, Safer Schools Together, and the Beaverton School District for three transformative days of actionable insights, expert-led sessions, and invaluable connections. Open to international attendees, this is an event school leaders and BTAM teams do not want to miss! LEARN MORE 2026 SOUTHEAST SCHOOL SAFETY SUMMIT This event has concluded. Join Safe and Sound Schools and the Green River Regional Educational Cooperative (GRREC) for an impactful and inspiring two-day event. Learn from nationally recognized speakers, explore best practices, discover programs, and gain actionable insights for your schools and communities. Don’t miss your opportunity to attend! LEARN MORE NORTHEAST SCHOOL SAFETY SUMMIT This event has concluded. Join Safe and Sound Schools for an impactful and inspiring two-day event. Learn from nationally recognized speakers, explore best practices, discover programs, and gain actionable insights. LEARN MORE Webinar: Digital Dangers & Student Behavior This event has concluded. Join us to explore how digital environments are influencing student behavior and how multidisciplinary teams can strengthen early identification, triage, and intervention practices. LEARN MORE 2025 MIDWEST SCHOOL SAFETY SUMMIT This event has concluded. Join Safe and Sound Schools and the Plymouth Police Department for an impactful and inspiring two-day event. Learn from nationally recognized speakers, explore best practices, discover programs, and gain actionable insights for your schools and communities. Don’t miss your opportunity to attend! LEARN MORE LESSONS IN PREVENTION WEBINAR This event has concluded. Join Safe and Sound Schools and NASRO for an engaging and informative webinar as we explore the Averted School Violence (ASV) Project and recognize these meaningful acts. The discussion will feature real-world cases analyzed for key takeaways to help attendees recognize warning signs, strengthen safety systems, and build more resilient schools. LEARN MORE THE TALL COP EMERGING DRUGS TRENDS CONFERENCE This event has concluded. Join Tall Cop Says Stop and Safe and Sound Schools for the 4th Annual Emerging Drug Trends Conference—an exclusive drug education, prevention and enforcement conference highlighting an array of superior speakers with expert knowledge. LEARN MORE GANGS, GUNS AND SCHOOL VIOLENCE PREVENTION This event has concluded. After 16 impactful years of the Gangs & Guns Training Symposium, we were proud to help expand the scope of this event to address broader aspects of school violence prevention. It was a deeply impactful event—an invaluable opportunity to lead the international conversation on school violence prevention and strengthen the connections that help keep our students, schools, and communities safe and sound LEARN MORE Host an Event Be a Champion in Your Community The Burlington Police Department teamed up with the Safe & Sound Schools to host the Northeast School Safety Summit at the Cafe Escadrille, where professionals from all areas of school safety came together to share information and experience. READ ARTICLE Interested in bringing a school safety event to your community? Safe and Sound Schools is here to support your efforts with expert guidance and resources. Contact us today to learn how we can collaborate to make your school community safer and more prepared. CONTACT US NEED A KEYNOTE SPEAKER? WE CAN HELP. Many of our premier events feature speakers from the Safe and Sound Speakers Bureau. With more than 23 advocates and experts, you are sure to find the right fit for your next event. PAUL TIMM PSP, Physical Security Expert MOLLY BRADLEY HUDGENS School Counselor and Congressional Medal of Honor Citizens Honor Recipient MICHELE GAY Founder and Executive Director of Safe and Sound Schools Sandy Hook Parent MISSY DODDS Survivor of the Red Lake High School Shooting FRANK DEANGELIS Retired Principal of Columbine High School VIEW ALL SPEAKERS 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!

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

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

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 Testimonials Review 1 Review 2 Review 3 “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!

Featured AVAILABLE TO BOOK EXCLUSIVELY THROUGH THE SAFE AND SOUND SPEAKERS BUREAU On Monday, March 21, 2005, Missy’s life was forever changed when a former student shot his way into her classroom at Red Lake High School, where he killed a co-worker and five of her students before taking his own life. Since that day more than 20 years ago, Missy has been on a meaningful journey from victim to survivor, finding her voice and purpose as an advocate and speaker. Having witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of school violence on her students and community, she now dedicates her work to helping schools build safer, more supportive educational environments. In her presentations, Dodds emphasizes the importance of comprehensive safety strategies, including mental health resources, emergency preparedness, and community engagement. Her unique perspective as both a survivor and a champion for change makes her an impactful speaker, offering valuable insights on how to create proactive, resilient school cultures that prioritize student safety and foster bright futures. WHY Book Missy FOR YOUR EVENT? “Thankful for Missy Dodds’ willingness to share her traumatic experience at the hands of a targeted mass shooter and her journey of healing in its aftermath. Her message was well received by the audience and her personal experience clearly had an impact on the attendees on the importance of behavioral threat assessment in the prevention of future mass attacks.” —Nicole Tuomi Jones, Ph.D., LP, CTM, Psychologist, Behavioral Threat Assessment Unit, North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation WHO Books Missy ? Missy Dodds’ unique blend of raw honesty and deep compassion make her a popular speaker among a wide range of audiences and organizations, including: National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO) Indiana Department of Education North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation Texas State University - Texas School Safety Center Texas Department of Public Safety Arkansas Safe Schools Association Delta Kappa Gamma West40 Intermediate Service Center (ISC) Vivent Health BOOK TODAY MISSY DODDS Survivor of the Red Lake High School Shooting BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Missy TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! SPEAKER Topics Include Safety & Security Culture, Climate & Community 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. Choosing to Survive: Lessons from Red Lake 1-2 Hour Keynote In this session, Missy shares both her personal journey of navigating life after a school shooting and her quest to understand how a school shooting can even happen. Through the pain, guilt and hard decisions, she is open and honest about her struggles, successes and how she now defines acceptance. Missy also shares how she found her “missing piece”—the answer to what she believes could have prevented the events on March 21, 2005. Missy’s presentation is suited for all educators, school-based law enforcement, school-based mental health providers, and community stakeholders. BOOK NOW Review 1 Review 2 Ms. Dodds was engaging, entertaining, and well-received by the audience. She made valid points that were useful for the threat assessment training, and shared her own story to highlight that targeted mass attacks have impacts on survivors as well. She also did a good job of stressing the value of threat assessment as a tool to prevent violence. —Earl Sam, Assistant Special Agent in Charge, North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation Missy provides a heart-wrenching and heart-warming presentation regarding her experience with a school shooting. She reminds us that safer schools are the responsibility of the entire community - the entire community, not just educators and parents. We are challenged to do something and build those safe and healthy connections between our students, educators, and community at large. —Nicole Lentz, Manager of Pharmacy Academics, Vivent Health Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY On Monday, March 21, 2005, Missy Dodds’ life was forever changed. A former student shot his way into her classroom at Red Lake High School in Northwest Minnesota. He killed a teacher and five of her students before taking his own life. Since that day, Missy has worked hard on her healing journey. This journey has taken her down many roads: learning to live with PTSD, the difference between being a victim and being a survivor and learning to allow her own children to experience and love school as much as she did. These paths have led Missy to becoming a school safety and mental health advocate. While Missy no longer teaches high school math, she is passionate about sharing what she has learned to help schools, parents and communities understand the importance of a comprehensive approach to school safety and recovery. Missy’s court case, Dodds vs Red Lake School District Workman’s Comp, helped to change the law in Minnesota to include PTSD as a viable workman’s comp claim. In 2015, Missy shared her story of recovery in the award-winning documentary, Red Lake, produced by Billy Luther. In 2018, Missy joined Safe and Sound Schools as a National Parent Ambassador and now serves as a regular speaker and outreach and training specialist for the national school safety non-profit. In 2022, Missy received the Outstanding Service Award from the Mu Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma for her work in school safety. She also serves as a parent representative for her local school district’s Emergency Operation Planning Committee and on her local Boys and Girls Club’s Program and Safety Committee. Born and raised in Arkansas, she lives in Northwest Minnesota with her husband and three children. Missy holds a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from the University of Central Arkansas and a Master of Science in Mathematics Education from Bemidji State University. Book Missy TODAY! Testimonials

Melissa Reeves, Ph.D., NCSP, LPC, is a leader and advocate in school safety, mental health, and crisis prevention and response. With decades of experience as a school psychologist, licensed professional counselor, and educator, and international advisor, she empowers educators and school communities to build systems that are proactive, trauma-informed, and deeply student-centered. A past president of the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) and co-author of the PREPaRE curriculum, Dr. Reeves brings globally recognized leadership to her work, challenging schools to embrace a holistic, multidisciplinary approach to prevention and crisis response. With a deep commitment to student well-being, Melissa equips her audiences with the knowledge and tools they need to support safer, healthier learning environments. WHY Book Dr. Reeves FOR YOUR EVENT? “Dr. Melissa Reeves has conducted dozens of workshops for both state and national conference that I have organized. She consistently receives the highest feedback from workshop attendees and carefully crafts her presentations to the specific needs of the audience. Dr. Reeves delivers her presentations with much enthusiasm and incorporates activities that target adult learning styles. She is a repeat workshop presenter due to high demand, participant request, and a proven track record.” - Anthony M. Adamowksi, M.Ed., Senior Manager - School Psychology, Chicago Public Schools WHO Books Dr. Reeves ? Dr. Reeves’ presentations are firmly grounded in decades of research and front-line experience. She engages international audiences with practical strategies, relatable case examples, and a calm, confident presence that fosters learning and reflection. Her presentations focus on topics such as school-based crisis prevention and response, trauma-informed practices, behavioral threat assessment, and building mental health supports that strengthen school safety and student resilience. Recent audiences Melissa has spoken to include: Michigan State Police Pennsylvania Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services Chicago Public Schools Rock Hill School District Houston Independent School District Southwest Cook County Cooperative Association for Special Education Gangs, Guns, and School Violence Prevention Summit (Vancouver, BC) Add your school or organization to the list of those inspired by Dr. Reeves - book her today! BOOK TODAY DR. MELISSA REEVES Former President of the National Association of School Psychologists BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Dr. Reeves TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! SPEAKER Topics Include Mental & Behavioral Health Culture, Climate, & Policy Leadership, Law, & Policy 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 Best Practices for Drills Trauma-Informed Practices Childhood Trauma & Adverse Experiences Inclusive School Safety Practices Special Education Considerations 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. Behavioral Threat Assessment and Management (BTAM): Best Practices for K-12 Schools 6 - 6.5 hours This workshop will focus on the process and procedures needed to establish a consistent school/district-wide approach to behavioral threat assessment and management. The roles and responsibilities of a multidisciplinary team following best practices established by the United States Secret Service National Threat Assessment Center (USSS/NTAC) and United States Department of Education will be taught. In addition, current statistics, legal cases, post-incident reviews, early identification of warning signs, primary prevention strategies to "break the code of silence”; screening and assessment procedures; and strategies for interventions, postventions, and working with difficult parents will be integrated. Case study examples and forms will also be shared to illustrate the process. This workshop accompanies the book authored by Dr. Reeves titled Behavioral Threat Assessment and Management. Participants will learn: how to establish a consistent school/district-wide approach to BTAM using the 8-steps identified by USSS/NTAC the critical risk factors and warning signs contributing to risk best practice guidelines and lessons learned from prior legal cases reports primary prevention strategies to break the code of silence how to assess risk using best practice guidelines and procedures established by the US Secret Service and US Dept of Education strategies for interventions and postvention strategies for working with difficult parents how to conduct a BTAM screening and full assessment utilizing case study examples It is highly recommended that school/district BTAM teams attend the training together. Critical team members include administrators (principals/assistant principals/deans), school psychologists, counselors, social workers, school resource officers, and law enforcement. Other important professionals also include behavioral interventionists, special education professionals/case managers, nurses, and community mental health professionals and law enforcement officers providing services in the schools and/or those who may help work threat assessment cases. Advanced Threat Assessment Training 3 – 3.5-hour training Can be combined with Best Practices for a Defensible Process and/or Special Education Considerations, see below, to make a 4.5 – 6.5 hour/full day workshop This workshop will examine the most current research and recommendations to ensure your school’s threat assessment process incorporates the most recent best practice guidelines. Participants will learn current best practices, the importance of investigating social media posts, and how our own biases can cloud judgment. In addition, post incident reports will be reviewed that provide an analysis of lessons learned from prior threat assessment cases and school shootings. Dr. Reeves will also share lessons learned from her experience in serving as an expert witness in court cases involving threat assessment and targeted school violence. Important findings will be discussed with an emphasis on the role of the school mental health professionals and SRO’s, the critical importance of establishing a multi-disciplinary threat assessment team, and the systemic barriers that complicated information sharing, documentation, and follow-up planning and supports. Participants will also analyze the reports to identify risk factors, warning signs, and missed opportunities for intervention. Specific recommendations for improving the fidelity of implementation of best practice threat assessment protocols will be provided. This workshop accompanies the book authored by Dr. Reeves titled Behavioral Threat Assessment and Management: K-12 Schools. Participants will: identify current best practices to improve their school’s threat assessment process learn the importance of searching for online threatening social media posts identify the impact biases can have on the interpretation of warning signs analyze case study data to identify opportunities missed when determining severity of a threat discuss specific strategies that need to be implemented to improve a school/district threat assessment process Behavioral Threat Assessment & Management: Legal and Best Practice Updates 1 - 2 hours This workshop will discuss how to make your school/district’s BTAM process more legally defensible. Dr. Reeves will share lessons learned from her experience in serving as an expert witness in a threat assessment case for a large school district. Important findings will be discussed with an emphasis on the critical importance of establishing multi-disciplinary threat assessment teams, the factors to consider when conducting a threat assessment on a student receiving special education services, and the systemic barriers that complicate information sharing, documentation, and follow-up planning and supports. Specific recommendations for improving the fidelity of implementation of best practice threat assessment protocols will be provided. [Note: This workshop is more of an overview whereas the workshops below cover information more in-depth.] Participants will: identify current best practices to improve their school’s threat assessment process understand how special education protocols and procedures are separate, yet can be complimentary to, threat assessment protocols and procedures identify the impact biases can have on the interpretation of warning signs learn how to increase effective communication to ensure the fidelity of the BTAM process and outcomes Behavioral Threat Assessment and Management (BTAM): Best Practices for a Defensible Process 1.5 - 3 hours Can be combined with Special Education Considerations, see below This workshop will discuss how to make your school/district’s BTAM process more legally defensible. The most current research and recommendations will be discussed with an emphasis on the critical importance of establishing multi-disciplinary threat assessment teams and how to address the systemic barriers that complicate information sharing, documentation, and follow-up planning and supports. The importance of addressing bias, equity, and disproportionality within the BTAM process will also be explained. Knowledge gained in serving as an expert witness in court cases involving threat assessment, targeted violence and suicidal ideation will be highlighted. Specific recommendations for improving the fidelity of implementation of best practice threat assessment protocols will also be provided. Participants will: learn how to build a high-quality behavioral threat assessment and management program utilizing best practice strategies to build a legally defensible process understand how to conduct a threat assessment using strategies that increase equity while decreasing bias and disproportionality learn the clear distinction, yet complementary aspects, between threat assessment and suicide risk assessment be provided with best practice guidance regarding parent permission vs notification, information sharing, discipline, and change in programming and/or placement decisions be provided recommendations for improving the fidelity of implementation of the BTAM process Behavioral Threat Assessment and Management (BTAM): Special Education Considerations 1 – 1.5 hours Can be combined with Best Practices for a Defensible Process, see below This workshop will discuss the special consideration necessary to ensure your threat assessment processes do not violate special education protocols and procedures. How IDEA, 504, and ADA Title II “Direct Threat Standard” intersect with threat assessment and the considerations needed to ensure districts are complying with federal law will be presented. Best practice guidance regarding parent permission vs notification, information sharing, discipline, and change in programming and/or placement decisions will be discussed. In addition, knowledge gained in serving as an expert witness in court cases involving threat assessment, targeted violence and suicidal ideation will be highlighted. Workshop participants will: discuss special considerations to be considered when conducting threat assessments with students with disabilities or suspected of having a disability understand the clear distinction, yet complementary aspects, between threat assessment and special education policies and procedures learn how IDEA, 504 and ADA Title II “Direct Threat Standard” intersect with threat assessment and the considerations needed to ensure districts are complying with federal law be provided with best practice guidance regarding parent permission vs notification, information sharing, and discipline identify the critical actions that need to be taken in the threat assessment process if a change of placement or programming is to be recommended identify data points to be collected to identify and mitigate disproportionality School-Based Crisis Prevention and Intervention 1.5 – 4 hours This advanced-level workshop will assist you in enhancing the crisis procedures already in place in your school district. Specifically, learn cutting edge tips on conducting crisis exercises and drills in the school setting. In addition, strategies for using social media, dealing with the press, and planning memorials will be offered. The legal ramifications of crisis response and how to meet the needs of your school community the recovery process will be highlighted. Lessons learned from previous school crisis, to include natural disasters and school shootings, will be discussed. Advanced Behavioral Threat Assessment & Management (BTAM): Case Management & Reintegration 3 - 3.5 hours This advanced workshop will increase participants skill sets regarding identifying protective factors and risk factors to enhance safety and management planning as part of the threat assessment process. An MTSS framework will be presented and then participants will work an advanced case study utilizing the 6 social development domains: individual, family, peer, school, community, and digital. A management planning toolkit will be provided to help guide teams in developing the safety plan and facilitating reintegration. Strategies for supporting staff will also be shared. It is highly recommended that participants have received prior training in behavioral threat assessment and management. Participants will: review the foundations of BTAM learn strengths-based supports, intervention, and management strategies to effectively manage challenging behaviors while also supporting staff learn strategies to support reintegration apply skills learned utilizing case studies Suicide Prevention through Postvention: Developing a Proactive and Consistent Approach to Evaluating Risk 6 – 6.5 hours This workshop will discuss the essential processes and procedures needed to establish quality programs that address suicide prevention through postvention. Critical factors discussed include current statistics and legal cases, early identification of warning signs, primary prevention strategies, how to screen for suicide risk and conduct a more in-depth school suicide safety assessment suicide risk assessment, and strategies for intervention and postvention activities. Case study examples and forms will be shared with the school mental health professional taking a leadership role. Participants will learn: how to establish a consistent school- or district-wide approach to suicide risk assessment the critical risk factors and warning signs contributing to risk best practice guidelines as established by prior legal cases and lessons learned reports primary prevention strategies to break the code of silence how to conduct screenings and school-based suicide safety assessments strategies for interventions and postvention strategies for working with difficult parents from case study examples and shared forms that illustrate the suicide risk assessment process Suicide and Non-Suicidal Self-Injury: Prevention, Intervention, and Postvention 2 - 3 hours This workshop will discuss the similarities and differences between suicidal and non-suicidal self-injurious behaviors. Critical factors discussed include etiology, early identification of risk factors and warning signs, and primary prevention strategies to break the code of silence. School-based intervention strategies will include cognitive, affective, behavioral, biological, environmental, and psychological interventions and postvention activities that address contagion and “rites of togetherness.” Participants will also better understand how to talk to teachers and parents about suicide and NSSI. Non-Suicidal Self-Injury: Prevention, Intervention, and Postvention 1.5 - 2 hours This workshop will discuss critical factors related to non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI). Practical universal suggestions will be provided for addressing contagion and “rites of togetherness.” Participants will also better understand individual interventions for students engaging in episodic and repetitive NSSI; assessment instruments for assessing the functions and severity of NSSI; etiology of NSSI and developing intervention plans to include practical cognitive, affective, behavioral, biological, environmental, and psychological interventions. Strategies for talking to teachers and parents about NSSI will also be highlighted. BOOK NOW Review 1 Review 2 “Dr. Melissa Reeves is an outstanding presenter, facilitator and instructor. I have been in a national conference and two local trainings in the past year where Dr. Reeves has provided content. Her confidence and enthusiasm are evident in her sharing of materials, ideas and practical use theory. At a recent national conference for the National Association of Pupil Service Administrators, Dr. Reeves was the highest rated presenter from the four-day conference with an approval rating of 4.80 out of 5. The feedback responses she received was complementary of both her presentation skills and the informative content she provided. Plans are being made to invite Dr. Reeves to present again at a future conference.” - V. Keith Wilks, M.Ed., Executive Director of Student Service, Rock Hill School District “Dr. Reeves' PREPaRE training was absolutely fantastic. Her trainings have increased our crisis team's professional capacity exponentially. Her wit, humor, and just ebullient personality fused within the scope of presenting the PREPaRe content yielded an overall great training and experience.” - Sean P. Ricks, LSSP, Sr. Manager - Crisis and Behavioral Intervention, Houston Independent School District Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY Dr. Melissa Reeves, Ph.D., NCSP, LPC is a nationally certified school psychologist, licensed special education teacher, licensed professional counselor, and former district coordinator of social/emotional/behavioral services. She is past president of the National Association of School Psychologists (2016-17) and has over 20 years’ experience working in public schools and a private school, in addition to providing mental health services in day and residential treatment settings. She was an Associate Professor at Winthrop University and taught both undergraduate and graduate psychology courses, in addition to supervising graduate school psychology students in their field-based traineeship and internship placements. She also served on the university’s Critical Incident Management Team and the College of Arts and Science COVID-19 Recovery committee. Currently, Dr. Reeves is a threat assessment & mental health specialist and senior advisor and speaker for Safe and Sound Schools, an organization founded by two parents who lost their children in the Sandy Hook tragedy. She is also a consultant and trainer for SIGMA Threat Management Associates (a Raptor affiliate), Safer Schools Together (SST), and Public Consulting Group (PCG). Dr. Reeves actively works and consults with K-12 schools regarding threat assessment cases and is engaged in helping state departments of education and school districts establish threat and suicide risk assessment procedures and emergency response protocols. Dr. Reeves is the lead author of the South Carolina Department of Education School-Based Behavioral Threat Assessment and Management Best Practice Guidelines for South Carolina K-12 Schools and has also recently served as an expert witness in court cases involving targeted school attacks and threat and suicide risk assessments, particularly involving students receiving special education services. Dr. Reeves was recently appointed by the Department of Homeland Security as an inaugural member of the Federal School Safety Clearinghouse External Advisory Board, which will advise on school safety practices to better support K-12 communities. In addition, Dr. Reeves is co-author of the nationally and internationally recognized National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) PREPaRE School Safety and Crisis Preparedness curriculum, the first comprehensive K-12 school crisis prevention and intervention curriculum. She is also a current member and former Chair of the NASP National School Safety and Crisis Response Committee which provides consultation and support to school districts across the country after large scale crisis events including school shootings and natural disasters. She was a founding member of the Colorado Society of School Psychologists State-Wide Crisis Response Team, which trained school districts across Colorado in crisis response and was also a crisis responder to support students after Columbine. In addition to responding to various crises over the years, she travels both nationally and internationally training professionals in the areas of crisis prevention and intervention, threat and suicide assessment, the impact of trauma and PTSD on academic achievement, and cognitive behavior interventions in the school setting. She has conducted more than 350 workshops and presentations and consults with schools on establishing a positive and safe school climate that focuses on prevention programs and positive discipline measures to decrease behavioral incidences while increasing academic achievement. She has also provided consultation and staff development training to United States Department of Defense Educational Activity Schools located on military installations. Dr. Reeves has authored six books: School Crisis Prevention and Intervention: The PREPaRE Model (original and 2nd Edition); Trauma and Adverse Childhood Experiences; Behavioral Threat Assessment and Management for K-12 Schools; Identifying, Assessing, and Treating PTSD at School; and Comprehensive Planning for Safe Learning Environments: A School Professional’s Guide to Integrating Physical and Psychological Safety: Prevention through Recovery. She has contributed multiple articles to the Communiqué, the nationally disseminated publication for the National Association of School Psychologists and has co-authored numerous book chapters and journal articles. In addition, she has testified in front of the U.S. Senate Ad Hoc Subcommittee for Disaster and Recovery regarding "Children and Disasters: A Progress Report on Addressing Needs." As NASP President, Dr. Reeves appointed the NASP Social Justice Task Force, and two additional task forces to study distance education and virtual delivery of school psychology services. Dr. Reeves has been awarded the National Association of School Psychologists Presidential Award in 2006, 2012, and 2018 and the NASP Crisis Interest Group Award for Excellence in 2007 and 2011. She was a 2007 national finalist for the Joseph E. Zins "Purpose" Award for Early Career Practitioners in Social Emotional Learning; in 2006 awarded Golden Heart Award, presented by Cherry Creek School District Parent Special Education Advisory Council; and received the University of Denver, College of Education Leadership in Learning Alumni Award in 2006. She has received numerous other awards throughout her career in addition to serving elected terms on the NASP Board of Directors as a NASP Delegate, Regional Representative, and NASP President. She is also member of the American Psychological Association, Colorado Society of School Psychologists, and Association of Threat Assessment Professionals (ATAP). Book Dr. Reeves 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 Review 1 Review 2 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! Testimonials

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!

Featured AVAILABLE TO BOOK EXCLUSIVELY THROUGH THE SAFE AND SOUND SPEAKERS BUREAU Michele Gay, founder and executive director of Safe and Sound Schools, is an internationally recognized leader in comprehensive school safety. After the tragic loss of her daughter, Josephine, in the Sandy Hook School shooting, Michele turned her grief into action, dedicating her life’s work to protecting and educating school communities. As the primary author of the Safe and Sound Schools Comprehensive Framework for Safety Planning and Development, she provides a practical guidance across six key pillars: emergency management, community engagement, physical safety, mental and behavioral health, school climate, and overall wellness. A trusted subject matter expert, Michele’s voice and inclusive approach foster collaboration among administrators, multidisciplinary teams, school resource officers, parents, and leaders at the local, state, and federal levels. WHY Book Michele FOR YOUR EVENT? "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 WHO Books Michele ? Michele’s powerful story and purposeful delivery have made her a highly sought-after international speaker. Typically booking 6–12 months in advance, she brings deep subject matter expertise and a practical, inclusive approach to school safety that resonates with diverse audiences. Michele is an ideal choice for schools, agencies, and organizations committed to creating safe and supportive educational environments. Recent audiences and conferences include: National Summit on K12 School Safety and Security, Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), Department of Homeland Security (DHS) National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO) The School Superintendents Organization (AASA) National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) British Columbia Ministry of Education Deaf School Safety Task Force Texas School Safety Center Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services Vermont Governor’s School Safety Conference Michigan Office of School Safety Academy (PrepTalks Conference) Federal Emergency Management Agency Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) United States Secret Service National Threat Assessment Center (Protecting America’s Schools) Add your school or organization to the list of those inspired by Michele Gay – book her today! BOOK TODAY MICHELE GAY Founder and Executive Director of Safe and Sound Schools Sandy Hook Parent BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Michele TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! SPEAKER Topics Include Mental & Behavioral Health Health & Wellness Safety & Security Culture, Climate & Community Leadership, Law & Policy Operations & Emergency Management MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) Prevention - Lessons Learned from Averted School Violence Case Studies School Violence Prevention Strategies Student Safety Training Inclusive School Safety Best Practices for Safety Drills and Training Emergency Preparedness & Response Active Shooter Preparedness & Response Recovery & Resilience After Tragedy Turning Pain into Purpose Lessons Learned from Tragedy Resilience Reunification for the School Community 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. Rethinking School Safety: A Parent’s Perspective 1-2 Hour Keynote Michele tells her personal story and recounts the lessons she learned on December 14, 2012 and in the aftermath of the Sandy Hook School tragedy. She shares the inspiring way she has chosen to help school communities improve school safety in honor of her daughter, Josephine, and memory of the other 19 children and six teachers lost on December 14, 2012. Michele’s perspective, as the mother of a special-needs child and former elementary school teacher, provides unique insight and inspiration for parents, administrators, school staff, emergency responders and community members who strive to make their schools safer. Michele Gay and the Safe and Sound foundation bring an important message to our communities and represent a powerful presence in our national school safety community. Reunification for the School Community Keynote, Half, or Full Day Workshop Michele draws on her personal experiences and offers valuable insights from the Sandy Hook School tragedy to guide school communities in preparing for safe, successful, and supportive reunification processes. Alongside Dr. Melissa Reeves, another recognized leader in the field of school safety, Michele shares both personal and professional perspectives on school-based reunification. Together, they explore best practices, current reunification models, and lead scenario-based tabletop exercises to equip participants with the tools and strategies necessary for effective reunification planning and preparation. Beyond Tragedy: Response and Recovery in a School-Based Crisis 1-2 Hour Keynote Michele shares her personal perspective on the Sandy Hook School response and recovery efforts. Based on her own experiences, those of victims, survivors, first responders, community leaders, educators, families, and children in the Sandy Hook and Newtown community, Michele outlines the challenges, successes, and lessons learned in the aftermath of tragedy and loss to better prepare others to respond and recover from emergencies, crisis, and disaster. She shares insights on emergency notification, communication, death notification, protection of victims and victims’ families, mental health needs and services, media management, and financial considerations, as well as other issues surrounding the response and recovery efforts within Sandy Hook and Newtown. Engaging the Community in School Safety: Tools and Ideas for Safer Schools 1-Hour Seminar or Workshop Michele offers presentation and discussion of the Safe and Sound model, toolkits, and tools according to the needs of the attendees. Michele’s sessions can be tailored to specific and various school safety stakeholders or delivered to a mixed group, shared in a seminar format, hands-on workshop, or breakout style. As an active member of the school safety community, Michele is prepared to share expert resources and discuss many of the programs and interventions available to communities striving to improve school safety. Students First: Developmentally Appropriate & Trauma-Informed Safety Education 1-2 Hour Workshop Michele addresses one of the most pressing and timely concerns school communities face today: developing and delivering safety curricula and training with respect to the unique needs of students and staff of all ages, abilities, and educational levels. Using Safe and Sound’s models for teaching and training, Michele empowers staff to determine objectives and activities for developmentally appropriate and psychologically safe education and training in the K-12 school setting. Especially Safe: Ensuring the Safety of EVERYbody The Road to Resilience 1-2 Hour Keynote Presented individually or as two braided stories, Michele shares her transformative journey from out of tragedy and into resiliency alongside several Safe and Sound presenters such as Frank DeAngelis, retired Columbine principal, Natalie Hammond, former Sandy Hook School administrator, Missy Dodds, former teacher at Red Lake High School, and Dr. CJ Huff former superintendent of the Joplin, Missouri Schools. She examines critical aspects of resilience along her own healing journey to illustrate the importance of proactive resiliency-building, including protective factors, healthy relationships, mental health supports, faith and spirituality, health and wellness, and discovering post-traumatic growth. Perspectives In Prevention: From Sandy Hook to Sycamore 1-2 Hour Keynote Co-presented in braided format by presenters Molly Hudgens, school counselor at Sycamore Middle School, and Michele Gay, founder of Safe and Sound, this moving presentation contrasts two pathways to violence. Exploring numerous opportunities, practical strategies, and best practices for intervention, Michele and Molly highlight the power of each of us collectively to change the trajectory of an individual on the pathway to violence. Hindsight to Foresight: From Red Lake to Sandy Hook 1-2 Hour Keynote Presented with former teacher and survivor, Missy Dodds, two powerful voices share lessons learned through their tragic experiences at Sandy Hook School and Red Lake High School. Michele and Missy provide their valuable hindsight as foresight for school communities who seek to ensure safe and sound schools and bright futures for every child. Panel Discussions and Q&A Sessions Michele offers Q&A sessions following her keynotes or as a separate session. She is also available for panel discussions. As these formats are more organic and highly individualized, Michele prefers to discuss and plan for these types of sessions directly with clients. BOOK NOW Testimonials Review 1 Review 2 Review 3 Michele Gay was a keynote for our annual safety summit. She was so inspiring and her expertise was invaluable. Some of the comments from our districts included ‘the lessons that were learned on that day resonated with me. I’m meeting with my committee this week,’ and ‘we cannot ever prepare for every scenario but we need to plan, plan and plan some more. I see Sandy Hook as our district… This won’t happen here. I appreciated her testimony and work for safe schools.’ I have met with many attendees since the summit, and they have said they are revisiting their EOPs to ensure they are prepared the best they can be for their students, teachers, parents, and communities. That was the goal of our summit and I am glad we had Michele to energize that effort. —Bilinda K. McCutcheon, Education Specialist, Region 17 Education Service Center, Texas Michele’s presentation, ‘Rethinking School Safety: A Parent’s Perspective’ was eye-opening on many levels. We believe that hearing her story on how events truly unfolded really puts a different perspective on school safety. It shows how important it is for all levels of administration, from principals down to the teachers… [to] be ready to jump into any role that is needed at the time of an emergency. —Jamia McDonald, Executive Director, Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency We had the honor of having Michele Gay speak at our School Safety Summit to an audience of our district and school leadership. Her presentation … was both inspirational and educational in providing our schools with great ideas that they could take back to their school and implement immediately. I cannot think of a more meaningful presentation that truly hits home with everyone in the audience. —Paul Hildreth, Emergency Operations Safety & Security, Fulton County Schools Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY Mother, educator, and co-founder of Safe and Sound Schools, Michele Gay chose to take action after losing her daughter Josephine Grace on December 14, 2012. Since that time, Gay has channeled her work as an advocate, improving safety and security in schools and communities across our country. With a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Towson State University, Gay earned her Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from McDaniel College. Prior to the Sandy Hook tragedy, she taught at the elementary level in the Maryland and Virginia public schools. Now a nationally and internationally recognized public speaker and school safety expert, Gay reaches audiences and consults with all levels of community institutions — schools; municipalities; houses of worship; educational and public safety leadership; state and federal governments; law enforcement agencies; and top news media sources. Through her work, and always with a goal of helping others increase the safety within their own communities, Gay shares her personal experiences and the lessons she has learned. The recipient of numerous national awards, Michele is a regular contributor for print, radio, and television outlets. The primary visionary and author of Safe and Sound’s programs and materials, Michele has served as a stakeholder voice in national legislative discussions. Through these works she continues to build Safe and Sound Schools as a national hub of school safety education, technical assistance, expert content, and best practices. Michele’s impassioned position on school safety hinges on every community taking a comprehensive and sustainable approach to safety. She works diligently to unite stakeholders of all disciplines and perspectives. As an educator, mother, and survivor of tragedy herself, Michele is uniquely positioned to help others. She has dedicated her life to honoring Josephine’s memory by ensuring that every school, every child, and every community is truly safe and sound. Book Michele TODAY!