Madalena DeAndrea is a compelling voice in the conversation around school safety, resilience, and trauma-informed leadership. Her dynamic presentations empower students, educators, and administrators to proactively navigate crisis, recovery, and mental wellness with confidence and clarity. By blending real-world experience with practical strategies, Madalena helps organizations move beyond fear toward a culture of preparedness and emotional strength. Her message resonates deeply with audiences seeking not just awareness, but meaningful, actionable change. WHY Book Madalena FOR YOUR EVENT? “ One of the most unique and inspiring voices in school safety today, Madalena DeAndrea shares her personal and lived experiences with a kind of bravery and pure intention few people can come close to demonstrating in their lifetime. From growing up as the daughter of a police officer to surviving a deadly mass shooting, DeAndrea reflects thoughtfully on her own heroic journey forward, finding purpose in pain and healing through helping. Now a lauded public speaker, Madalena delivers powerful inspiration and practical takeaways to all who hear her message.” —Michele Gay, Founder & Executive Director , Safe and Sound Schools WHO Books Madalena ? Madalena’s expertise makes her a valuable speaker for schools and organizations seeking to foster resilience, emotional preparedness, and a culture of safety. Her unique approach equips communities to respond to trauma with strength and purpose while promoting proactive strategies for mental wellness and crisis recovery. Recent audiences include: Jeffco Public Schools FBI National Academy at Quantico Safe and Sound Schools Virtual National Summit on School Safety National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO) Add your school or organization to the list of those inspired by Madalena - book her today! BOOK TODAY MADALENA DEANDREA Borderline Bar and Grill Shooting Survivor & Resiliency Advocate BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Madalena TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! SPEAKER Topics Include Safety & Security Culture, Climate, & Community Operations & Emergency Management Violence prevention Strategies Emergency Preparedness & Response Active Shooter Preparedness & Response Recovery & Resilience After Trauma Turning Pain into Purpose Lessons Learned from Tragedy Signature PRESENTATIONS Click on the titles to learn more about each signature presentation and fill out the form below to book for your next event. A Hero's Daughter; A Survivor's Journey What if the skills that help us survive life's darkest moments can be learned long before crisis ever occurs? In this unforgettable keynote, resiliency advocate, active shooting survivor, Director of School Safety, and nationally recognized speaker Madalena DeAndrea shares the extraordinary journey that shaped her understanding of resilience. From growing up as the daughter of a law enforcement leader who helped redefine America's response to school shootings to surviving the 2018 mass shooting at the Borderline Bar & Grill in Thousand Oaks, California, her story is a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit. Rather than focusing solely on tragedy, Madalena reveals the protective factors, practical skillsets, and powerful mindsets that prepared her to respond under unimaginable circumstances and ultimately fueled her journey of post traumatic growth. Blending deeply personal storytelling with evidence-informed resilience strategies and lessons learned from years of leading school safety and preparedness initiatives, she demonstrates that resilience is not something we are born with. It is something we intentionally build. Audience members will leave inspired and equipped with practical tools to strengthen themselves, support the people they love, and cultivate more resilient families, workplaces, and communities before crisis ever occurs. Through hope, authenticity, and actionable insights, Madalena reminds us that while we cannot always choose what happens to us, we can choose how we prepare, how we respond, and who we become in the aftermath. Resilience Readiness: Preparing for Post-Traumatic Growth In this interactive and practical session, resiliency advocate, active shooting survivor, Director of School Safety, and nationally recognized speaker Madalena DeAndrea explores how individuals and communities can intentionally build protective factors before crisis occurs. Madalena breaks down what protective factors are, how they function in everyday life, and why they are essential in shaping outcomes during moments of extreme stress and in supporting healing in the aftermath. Drawing from both her lived experience as a survivor of the 2018 Borderline Bar & Grill active shooting and her professional expertise in school safety, she translates the often overwhelming work of preparing for crisis into clear, actionable steps that can be applied immediately in personal, professional, and community settings. At the center of this session are Madalena’s five guiding questions, designed to help individuals, teams, and organizations identify, strengthen, and actively build protective factors in advance of crisis. These questions create a practical framework for reflection and action, focused on readiness, connection, and resilience long before adversity occurs. Participants will leave with a clearer understanding of how protective factors are developed, how they can be strengthened over time, and how intentional choices today can significantly influence safety, stability, and resilience in the future, strengthening the potential for post-traumatic growth in the aftermath. Dark Nights of the Soul: When Terror Hits Home Deputy Chief AJ DeAndrea (Retired) was in a leadership role in three school shootings that changed the fabric of American society and police response to active shootings around the world. He takes a deep dive into these tragic events and more importantly analyzes the positive things that came from them in decision making, improved tactics, and mental health practices. Most importantly, he is accompanied by his oldest daughter, Madalena DeAndrea, who survived the Borderline active shooting incident in Thousand Oaks, CA in 2018. Madalena, a current Director of School Safety with Jeffco Public Schools Department of School Safety in Colorado shares how the protective factors she learned growing up the daughter of a law enforcement officer, ultimately saved her life. She shares her insights as a survivor of an active shooting, and her choice to experience post-traumatic growth following an experience of evil. AJ and Madalena passionately speak from the perspective of having been inside the building during the aforementioned active shootings. These events have led to the creation of their Eight Pillars of Preparedness that can help prevent active shootings from occurring or help stop and manage them more effectively if one is to kick off in your jurisdiction. Through the Eyes of a Survivor: A Retrospective Threat Assessment of the Borderline Shooter In this powerful and deeply reflective session, resiliency advocate, active shooting survivor, Director of School Safety, and nationally recognized speaker Madalena DeAndrea examines the 2018 Borderline Bar & Grill shooting through the lens of modern behavioral threat assessment. Madalena reviews the shooter’s background, known risk factors, and behavioral indicators leading up to the attack, as well as key actions during the incident. She then places this analysis alongside her own lived experience, highlighting the protective factors that shaped her response and ultimately contributed to her survival. By comparing these two parallel paths, Madalena helps audiences understand how risk factors can escalate without intervention, and how protective factors can change outcomes. This session provides practical insight into early warning signs, prevention strategies, and the importance of building stronger protective environments in schools, workplaces, and communities. BOOK NOW Testimonials Review 1 Review 2 Review 3 “[Madalena DeAndrea’s keynote] was my favorite part of the conference. It truly was one of the most impactful things I have ever heard.” —Student, Jeffco Public Schools “Madalena was fantastic. Her presentation has left a resounding impact on me and although she doesn't claim to be an expert, she is truly a blessing. We use the protocols in place and I'm hoping my schools are on board to bringing her in to do a countywide training with her as the presenter.” —Attendee, 2023 Iowa Homeland Security Conference Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY Madalena DeAndrea is an active shooting survivor, resiliency advocate, and the oldest daughter of Deputy Chief AJ DeAndrea (retired). The backdrop of Madalena’s childhood was her father’s historic law enforcement career which included serving in a leadership role in three school shootings that changed the fabric of American society and police response to active shootings around the world. A Colorado Native, Madalena received her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Strategy from the University of Colorado Boulder in 2018. During her time at CU, she served as Student Body President for her 30,000 classmates which gave her the unique opportunity to directly manage a $24 million budget, lead a 500-person organization, speak to crowds of 8,000+ people, and work with world leaders like His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Vice President Joe Biden. Following her undergraduate studies, Madalena worked for a non-profit in Los Angeles, CA. While serving in this role she went out for a night of dancing with her friends at Borderline Bar and Grill and the unthinkable happened - a gunman came in and started shooting. Using the skillsets and mindsets she learned growing up, Madalena was able to find safety in the attic above the bar where she stayed for the remainder of the tragedy as 12 people, including responding Police Officer Sgt. Ron Helus, were killed. After surviving the Borderline tragedy, Madalena made a choice to not let evil win and to be a force for good in the world. After serving for four years as an Emergency Management Specialist for Jeffco Public Schools, the School District she grew up in, Madalena now proudly serves as the Senior Manager of Strategic Projects, Recovery, & Resiliency for Jeffco. In this first-of-its-kind position, Madalena supports the proactive implementation of strategic safety initiatives and recovery planning prior to crisis occurring. She is a certified Threat Liaison Officer for the state of Colorado and is trained in CPTED, CIT, FEMA’s Incident Command Series and Professional Development Series, and Single Officer Response to an Active Shooter. In her spare time, Madalena travels the country telling her story and sharing her message of hope, resiliency, and post-traumatic growth with law enforcement agencies, school districts, businesses, and community organizations. Madalena is passionate about empowering individuals and communities with the mindsets and tools needed to build resiliency even in the face of life’s uncertainties! Book Madalena TODAY!

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

FEATURED SPEAKERS Close SPEAKER PERSPECTIVE Filter items with SpeakerPerspective Educator (Teacher, School Counselor, Special Educator) Law Enforcement/Public Safety Medical (Crisis/Emergency Responder, School Nurse) Parent/Guardian Practitioner (Mental Health Professional, Social Worker, Crisis Responder) School Leadership (Principal, Administrator, District Leader) School-based Mental Health (Psychologist, Social Worker, Counselor) Survivor RESET FILTER COMPREHENSIVE SCHOOL SAFETY DISCIPLINE Filter items with Comprehensive School Safety Discipline Culture, Climate & Community Health & Wellness Leadership, Law & Privacy Mental & Behavioral Health Operations & Emergency Management Safety & Security PREVENTION & INTERVENTION Filter items with Prevention & Intervention Bullying & Cyberbullying Prevention Digital Safety & Online Threats Grooming & Exploitation, Intervention Strategies Identifying & Supporting At-Risk Students Leader-care/Self-care MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) Security Sexual Abuse Prevention Substance Use & Addiction Suicide Prevention & Mental Health Support FILTER BY TOPIC Total Results: 31 EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS & RESPONSE Filter items with Emergency Preparedness & Response Active Shooter Prevention & Response Best Practices for Drills Emergency Preparedness & Response Staying Safe Stop the Bleed RESILENCE & RECOVERY Filter items with Resilience & Recovery Childhood Trauma & Adverse Experiences Lessons Learned from Tragedy Recovery & Resilience After Tragedy Trauma-Informed Practices Turning Pain Into Purpose THREAT ASSESSMENT Filter by Threat Assessment Averted School Violence Case Studies Behavioral Threat Assessment & Management Digital Threat Assessment Physical Security & Risk Assessment School Shooters: Profiles & Prevention Violence Prevention Strategies SAFETY OF SPECIAL POPULATIONS Filter by Safety of Special Populations Inclusive School Safety Practices LGTBQ+ & Safety Special Education Considerations TYPE OF PRESENTATION Filter by Type of Presentation Breakout Sessions Keynote Presentation Professional Development Training & Workshops FEATURED SPEAKER Filter items with FlagText FEATURED SPEAKER DR. STEPHANIE GRANT Developmental Psychologist, Neurodevelopment and Trauma Expert Learn More ANTOINETTE KING, CISSP Physical & Cyber Security Expert Learn More DOUG HUNT Childhood Trauma Survivor, Associate Director of Bright Futures Mission Advancement Learn More ANNEMOSS ROGERS Mental Health and Suicide Education Expert Learn More KATEY MCPHERSON Digital Wellness Coach Learn More BEN FERNANDEZ Lead School Psychologist Northern Virginia School System Learn More DR. CJ HUFF Educator and Child Advocate Learn More DEPUTY CHIEF D.J. SCHOEFF National Leadership Speaker and Trainer Learn More DR. SAVAHANNA WAGNER Co-Founder Rescue in Color Emergency Medical Expert Learn More FRANK DEANGELIS Retired Principal of Columbine High School Learn More JONATHAN CRISTALL Prosecutor Certified Sexual Violence Prevention Instructor, Digital Safety Advocate, Author Learn More LISA HAMP Survivor of the Virginia Tech Shooting Learn More MICHELE GAY Founder and Executive Director of Safe and Sound Schools Sandy Hook Parent Learn More MICHELLE DENAULT Survivor of Educator Sexual Abuse Learn More MISSY DODDS Survivor of the Red Lake High School Shooting Learn More MOLLY BRADLEY HUDGENS School Counselor and Congressional Medal of Honor Citizens Honor Recipient Learn More OFFICER MEG SOULTZ Co-Founder Rescue in Color Public Safety and Emergency Medical Expert Learn More PAUL TIMM PSP, Physical Security Expert Learn More AJ DEANDREA Retired Police Chief & Tactical Lead Trainer Learn More DANIEL JEWISS Lead Investigator for the Sandy Hook School Shooting Learn More DAVE OKADA President, Association of Threat Assessment Professionals (ATAP) Learn More DR. AMANDA NICKERSON Professor and Director of the Alberti Center for Bullying Abuse Prevention Learn More DR. MELISSA REEVES Former President of the National Association of School Psychologists Learn More DR. PETER LANGMAN Author and Expert in the Psychology of School Shooters Learn More DR. SCOTT POLAND Professor/Licensed Psychologist and Expert on School Violence Learn More DR. STEPHEN BROCK Nationally Certified School Psychologist and Licensed Educational Psychologist Learn More DR. TODD SAVAGE Professor of School Psychology Learn More JIN KIM FBI Veteran/Expert on Active Shooter & Workplace Violence Preparedness Learn More JOHN MCDONALD Co-founder & Chief Operating Officer, Council for School Safety Leadership (CSSL) Learn More MADALENA DEANDREA Borderline Bar and Grill Shooting Survivor & Resiliency Advocate Learn More NATALIE HAMMOND Elementary Principal and Sandy Hook School Shooting Survivor Learn More All speaking engagements are coordinated through Brian at Kirkland Productions. To coordinate an event, please contact Brian at brian@kirklandproductions.com or 866-769-9037 Book A Safe and Sound SPEAKER TODAY Our nationally recognized team of speakers are available for your event! Please complete the form below to get started, and a member of our team will be in touch soon! Empowering School Communities From keynotes to hands-on workshops and community-wide forums, our speakers can adapt their delivery approach to meet the unique needs of your event. Our speaking team can deliver content on a variety of topics related to safety, crisis prevention, response, recovery, and mental health. Our Speakers Safe and Sound Schools'® panel of school safety experts combine deep practical knowledge with engaging delivery to inspire and educate your school community. BOOK A SPEAKER

The Safe and Sound Institute® presents regional Summits, workshops and trainings with national level experts in school safety to actively engage and connect all stakeholders in the process of improving school safety. GET STARTED TODAY Training Topics Also Include: Bully Prevention and Intervention Social Skill Development Medical First Aid Substance Abuse Prevention & Intervention School Safety & Security Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design Building a Culture of Safety School Leadership Student Safety Training Emergency Operations Planning Family Support Planning (Reunification) Crisis Communications And more! Cyber Security, Policy & Prevention Event & Curriculum Development School-Based Threat Assessment Emergency Operations Planning Social Emotional Learning Trauma Informed Schools Assessing Digital & Social Media Threats Physical Safety Assessments Safety for Students with Special Needs Suicide Prevention & Postvention Protocols Active Assailant Education & Training Anonymous Tip Program Development Our team of experts is here to empower yours—offering expert training and strategic consulting across a broad range of subjects. Discover the areas where we provide the most impact, and let’s collaborate to bring your vision to life. Reach out today to get started. Projects We Frequently Consult On Community Engagement Emergency Operations Planning Layered Systems of Security Supporting Students' Basic & Immediate Needs Comprehensive School Safety Topics We Frequently Train On Our team of experts is here to empower your staff by providing expert training across a broad range of subjects. Discover the areas we offer training on and reach out today to get started. Anonymous Reporting Multi-tiered Systems of Support for Safety & Success Suicide Prevention, Intervention & Postvention School Law & Policy Crisis Response & Recovery School-Based Threat Assessment Stop the Bleed Custom In-Person & Virtual Professional Development & Training The Safe and Sound Institute® presents regional Summits, workshops and trainings with national level experts in school safety to actively engage and connect all stakeholders in the process of improving school safety. Connecting stakeholders, building common language, and setting the foundation for collaborative work, our Summits, workshops, and trainings bring together regional stakeholders for greater impact and the long-lasting relationships required to ensure school safety. States, regions, counties, and districts can maximize their resources by bringing together the multiple agencies, professions, and perspectives required for a truly collaborative and meaningful approach to school safety, increasing efficiency and productivity to rethink school safety. Safe and Sound Schools® tailors each Summit, workshop, and training session to the unique needs of local stakeholders and communities in the form of stand-alone events, or as part of a regional or state tour to reach more stakeholders in a shorter time frame. This concentrated focus builds collaboration, increases resource sharing and builds networks for continued school safety improvement. Participants interact, learn and share best practices, and become resources to each other as they assess, act and audit their school safety efforts, together. LEARN MORE Meet Our Team of Experts This national network includes Safe and Sound team members as well as leading experts representing every facet of comprehensive school safety and student well-being. Together, we deliver customized training tailored to your team’s priorities, schedule, and goals. Meet a few of the experts ready to support your community: Michele Gay Founder & Executive Director, Safe and Sound Schools Ben Fernandez Director of Programs & Curriculum Development Kate Shaw Associate Director of Projects & Training, Safe and Sound Schools Susan Payne Founder & Executive Director, Safe2Tell Dr. CJ Huff Educator and Child Advocate Antionette King Physical & Cyber Security Expert Dr. Melissa Reeves Former President, National Association of School Psychologists Dave Okada President, Association of Threat Assessment Professionals (ATAP) Paul Timm PSP, Physical Security Expert AnneMoss Rogers Mental Health and Suicide Education Expert Dr. Scot Poland Professor, Licensed Psychologist, Expert on School Violence Theresa Campbell Founder, President & CEO of Safer Schools Together Dr. Greg Gerber Assistant Professor at the New York Institute of Technology, Vancouver CONTACT US NOW Book a Custom Consult TO DISCUSS YOUR PROJECT TODAY! 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! Safe and Sound INSTITUTE CONTACT US

From prevention through recovery, Safe and Sound Schools’® national network of experts can help your school or district plan and prepare for safety. With extensive backgrounds and experience in School Psychology, Emergency Planning and Management, School-based Policing, Weather & Disaster Preparedness, Physical Safety, Culture, Special Education and more, our subject matter experts combine best practice guidance and real-world application to help you build school safety in your community. Get Help from the Experts From prevention through recovery, Safe and Sound Schools’ national network of experts can help your school or district plan and prepare for safety. With extensive backgrounds and experience in school psychology, emergency planning and management, school-based policing, weather & disaster preparedness, physical safety, school culture, special education, and more, our subject matter experts combine best practice guidance and real-world application to help you build, customize, and continually refine school safety in your community. Take a look at the topics below to see how we can help with your comprehensive school safety needs and contact us today to get started. Cyber Security, Policy & Prevention Event & Curriculum Development Assessing Digital & Social Media Threats Social Emotional Learning Physical Safety Assessments Projects We Frequently Consult On Our national network of experts is here to empower yours—offering expert training and strategic consulting across a broad range of subjects. Discover the areas where we provide the most impact, and let’s collaborate to bring your vision to life. Reach out today to get started. Anonymous Tip Program Development Active Assailant Education & Training Safety for Students with Special Needs Trauma Informed Schools Suicide Prevention & Postvention Protocols School-Based Threat Assessment Emergency Operations Planning GET STARTED TODAY Cyber Security, Policy & Prevention Event & Curriculum Development School-Based Threat Assessment Emergency Operations Planning Social Emotional Learning Trauma Informed Schools Assessing Digital & Social Media Threats Physical Safety Assessments Safety for Students with Special Needs Suicide Prevention & Postvention Protocols Active Assailant Education & Training Anonymous Tip Program Development Our team of experts is here to empower yours—offering expert training and strategic consulting across a broad range of subjects. Discover the areas where we provide the most impact, and let’s collaborate to bring your vision to life. Reach out today to get started. Projects We Frequently Consult On LEARN MORE Meet Our National Network of Experts Our national network includes members of the Safe and Sound team as well as experts from other disciplines across comprehensive school safety and student wellness. With deep relationships and unparalleled expertise, we can customize teams to address any consulting and technical assistance need. Meet some of our experts: Michele Gay Founder & Executive Director, Safe and Sound Schools Ben Fernandez Director of Programs and Training, Safe and Sound Schools Kate Shaw Associate Director of Projects & Training, Safe and Sound Schools Susan Payne Founder & Executive Director, Safe2Tell Dr. CJ Huff Educator and Child Advocate Antionette King Physical & Cyber Security Expert Dr. Melissa Reeves Former President, National Association of School Psychologists Dave Okada President, Association of Threat Assessment Professionals (ATAP) Paul Timm PSP, Physical Security Expert AnneMoss Rogers Mental Health and Suicide Education Expert Dr. Scot Poland Professor, Licensed Psychologist, Expert on School Violence Theresa Campbell Founder, President & CEO of Safer Schools Together Dr. Greg Gerber Assistant Professor at the New York Institute of Technology, Vancouver CONTACT US NOW Book a Custom Consult TO DISCUSS YOUR PROJECT TODAY! 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! Consulting & TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE 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 BTAM Foundations: Threat Assessment Training Virtual Summit REGISTER NOW - October 19-23 Join us for a week-long virtual event is designed to help K–12 educators, administrators, school safety leaders, student support professionals, and community partners strengthen their foundational understanding of BTAM. LEARN MORE National School Safety and Security Summit REGISTER NOW – December 3-5 Join us to learn how artificial intelligence, social media, weapons detection technology, and evolving extremist recruitment tactics are shaping student safety and what school-based teams can do about it. LEARN MORE 2nd Annual International Prevent Conference REGISTER NOW – January 6 -8 Safe and Sound Schools is proud to present the Prevent Conference, a three-day training experience dedicated to advanced BTAM concepts, strategies, and practices. In partnership with Safer Schools Together, this event features expert-led sessions and specialized learning opportunities from industry-leading practitioners and trainers. 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 The Next Steps: From Reporting Concerns to Preventing Violence This event has concluded. In this can't-miss conversation, Michele Gay will be joined by Dr. Allison Willemin of Navigate360, Mo Canady of NASRO to explore the critical work that happens after someone sees something and says something. 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!

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 BTAM Foundations: Threat Assessment Training Virtual Summit REGISTER NOW - October 19-23: Join us for a week-long virtual event is designed to help K–12 educators, administrators, school safety leaders, student support professionals, and community partners strengthen their foundational understanding of BTAM. Start Now National School Safety and Security Summit REGISTER NOW – December 3-5: Join us to learn how artificial intelligence, social media, weapons detection technology, and evolving extremist recruitment tactics are shaping student safety and what school-based teams can do about it. Start Now 2nd Annual International Prevent Conference REGISTER NOW – January 6-8: Join us to gain practical knowledge of evidence-informed BTAM frameworks and emerging best practices. 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

Featured AVAILABLE TO BOOK EXCLUSIVELY THROUGH THE SAFE AND SOUND SPEAKERS BUREAU D.J. Schoeff is a nationally recognized school safety expert and motivational leader who empowers audiences through a unique blend of frontline law enforcement experience, strategic insight, and proven leadership. What sets him apart is his ability to connect real-world school safety challenges with practical leadership principles to help individuals and organizations make a lasting impact. Drawing on more than 14 years of experience as a School Resource Officer and Supervisor, as well as his position as a member of John Maxwell’s leadership team and a certified leadership coach, D.J. equips audiences with actionable strategies to strengthen school safety, build meaningful partnerships, and develop confident, effective leaders. His engaging approach inspires audiences to move beyond awareness and turn knowledge into meaningful action within their schools and communities. WHY Book D.J. FOR YOUR EVENT? "D.J. is a powerful and motivational speaker! He will add value to you and in return will help you add value to others." -Chris Owens WHO Books D.J. ? D.J.’s real-world law enforcement experience and practical, leadership-focused approach as a member of the Maxwell leadership team make him a compelling speaker on school safety and effective leadership. Known for his engaging, relatable style, he equips audiences with actionable strategies to strengthen school safety, build meaningful partnerships, and empower leaders to make a lasting impact. D.J. is an ideal choice for schools, organizations, and communities seeking to strengthen safety practices, develop confident leaders, and create environments where people can thrive. Recent audiences include: Utah School Safety Center Conference Iowa Association of School Resource Officers Indiana Office of School Safety Northwoods Church - Peoria, IL Farm Bureau Insurance Special Olympics Indiana Add your school or organization to the list of those inspired by Deputy Chief D.J. Schoeff - book him today! BOOK TODAY DEPUTY CHIEF D.J. SCHOEFF National Leadership Speaker and Trainer BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING D.J. TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! In this powerful conversation D.J. Schoeff, and a panel of fellow SROs, joins Paul Timm to discuss the evolving role of law enforcement on school campuses and how to bridge the gap between SROs and educators. SPEAKER Topics Include Violence Prevention Strategies Emergency Preparedness & Response Leader-care/ Self-care Culture, Climate, & Community Leadership, Law, & Policy Safety & Security 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. Leadership and the SRO D.J. draws on his extensive experience in school-based law enforcement and national-level service to inspire school safety professionals to lead with greater purpose, build stronger relationships, and make a lasting difference in the lives of the students and communities they serve. Blending the perspectives of a School Resource Officer (SRO) and law enforcement administrator, he challenges attendees to rediscover their passion for the work, recognize the influence they have on school safety culture, and embrace the responsibility of leadership at every level. In this engaging keynote, D.J. brings together powerful insights from Leadership and the School Safety Professional, Influencing the School Safety Culture, and High Road Leadership to offer practical, proven strategies for building trust, strengthening connections, and leading with intention. Attendees will leave inspired to elevate their leadership, communicate more effectively, and approach their roles with renewed purpose and a deeper commitment to the youth and communities in their care. *This keynote can be customized according to the needs and make-up of the audience. High Road Leadership Strong school safety cultures are built on trust, dignity, and accountability. In this breakout session, D.J. explores the principles of High Road Leadership and how they can help school leaders foster environments where students and staff feel safe, valued, and supported. Through a faith-based lens, attendees will consider how leading with integrity, humility, and purpose can strengthen relationships, guide decision-making, and shape a culture where everyone can thrive. Communication for a Culture of Safety In this breakout session, D.J. explores John Maxwell’s 16 Laws of Communication and their practical applications for school safety professionals, school-based law enforcement, and administrators. Attendees will discover strategies to communicate with greater clarity, credibility, and confidence, even when the stakes are high. Participants will leave with actionable tools to strengthen relationships with students, staff, parents, and community partners, navigate challenging conversations, and become more effective, influential leaders in their school communities. BOOK NOW Review 1 Review 2 "D.J.’s Next Level Leadership for the SRO and SRO Supervisor is next level training. His leadership philosophy and approaches are realistic and relatable for anyone in any role in law enforcement. Arguably, one of the best online trainings I’ve experienced in my 25 year career." -Matt Watson, Training Attendee "D.J.’s talk was a great way to wrap up the conference. It really made me think about what I’m doing with these kids as far as influencing them, creating leaders, and loving them till they wonder why." -Shaun Mudd, Training Attendee Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY D.J. Schoeff is a veteran law enforcement officer, nationally recognized school safety expert, and dynamic leadership consultant. He currently serves as the Deputy Chief of Administration for the Carmel Police Department in Indiana, bringing over two decades of dedicated public service as a third-generation police officer. D.J.’s career uniquely bridges private-sector expertise and public service. Prior to joining law enforcement, he traveled internationally as a corporate trainer-a background that built his strong foundation in public speaking and workforce development. Over the course of 14+ years as a School Resource Officer (SRO) and SRO Supervisor, D.J. emerged as a leading voice in national school safety. He is a Charter Board Member of the Indiana School Resource Officers Association and previously served as President of the National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO). Hiss advocacy was instrumental in defining SRO roles in Indiana law and securing millions of dollars in federal and state funding for school safety nationwide. As a John C. Maxwell Certified Leadership Coach, Speaker, and Trainer, D.J. seamlessly blends his front-line security background with proven leadership principles. He is dedicated to empowering audiences and inspiring leaders to create a lasting, significant impact within their own organizations and communities. Book D.J. TODAY! Testimonials

Featured AVAILABLE TO BOOK EXCLUSIVELY THROUGH THE SAFE AND SOUND SPEAKERS BUREAU D.J. Schoeff is a nationally recognized school safety expert and motivational leader who empowers audiences through a unique blend of frontline law enforcement experience, strategic insight, and proven leadership. What sets him apart is his ability to connect real-world school safety challenges with practical leadership principles to help individuals and organizations make a lasting impact. Drawing on more than 14 years of experience as a School Resource Officer and Supervisor, as well as his position as a member of John Maxwell’s leadership team and a certified leadership coach, D.J. equips audiences with actionable strategies to strengthen school safety, build meaningful partnerships, and develop confident, effective leaders. His engaging approach inspires audiences to move beyond awareness and turn knowledge into meaningful action within their schools and communities. WHY Book D.J. FOR YOUR EVENT? "D.J. is a powerful and motivational speaker! He will add value to you and in return will help you add value to others." -Chris Owens WHO Books D.J. ? D.J.’s real-world law enforcement experience and practical, leadership-focused approach as a member of the Maxwell leadership team make him a compelling speaker on school safety and effective leadership. Known for his engaging, relatable style, he equips audiences with actionable strategies to strengthen school safety, build meaningful partnerships, and empower leaders to make a lasting impact. D.J. is an ideal choice for schools, organizations, and communities seeking to strengthen safety practices, develop confident leaders, and create environments where people can thrive. Recent audiences include: Utah School Safety Center Conference Iowa Association of School Resource Officers Indiana Office of School Safety Northwoods Church - Peoria, IL Farm Bureau Insurance Special Olympics Indiana Add your school or organization to the list of those inspired by Deputy Chief D.J. Schoeff - book him today! BOOK TODAY DEPUTY CHIEF D.J. SCHOEFF National Leadership Speaker and Trainer BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING D.J. TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! In this powerful conversation D.J. Schoeff, and a panel of fellow SROs, joins Paul Timm to discuss the evolving role of law enforcement on school campuses and how to bridge the gap between SROs and educators. SPEAKER Topics Include Violence Prevention Strategies Emergency Preparedness & Response Leader-care/ Self-care Culture, Climate, & Community Leadership, Law, & Policy Safety & Security 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. Leadership and the SRO D.J. draws on his extensive experience in school-based law enforcement and national-level service to inspire school safety professionals to lead with greater purpose, build stronger relationships, and make a lasting difference in the lives of the students and communities they serve. Blending the perspectives of a School Resource Officer (SRO) and law enforcement administrator, he challenges attendees to rediscover their passion for the work, recognize the influence they have on school safety culture, and embrace the responsibility of leadership at every level. In this engaging keynote, D.J. brings together powerful insights from Leadership and the School Safety Professional, Influencing the School Safety Culture, and High Road Leadership to offer practical, proven strategies for building trust, strengthening connections, and leading with intention. Attendees will leave inspired to elevate their leadership, communicate more effectively, and approach their roles with renewed purpose and a deeper commitment to the youth and communities in their care. *This keynote can be customized according to the needs and make-up of the audience. High Road Leadership Strong school safety cultures are built on trust, dignity, and accountability. In this breakout session, D.J. explores the principles of High Road Leadership and how they can help school leaders foster environments where students and staff feel safe, valued, and supported. Through a faith-based lens, attendees will consider how leading with integrity, humility, and purpose can strengthen relationships, guide decision-making, and shape a culture where everyone can thrive. Communication for a Culture of Safety In this breakout session, D.J. explores John Maxwell’s 16 Laws of Communication and their practical applications for school safety professionals, school-based law enforcement, and administrators. Attendees will discover strategies to communicate with greater clarity, credibility, and confidence, even when the stakes are high. Participants will leave with actionable tools to strengthen relationships with students, staff, parents, and community partners, navigate challenging conversations, and become more effective, influential leaders in their school communities. BOOK NOW Testimonials Review 1 Review 2 Review 3 "D.J.’s Next Level Leadership for the SRO and SRO Supervisor is next level training. His leadership philosophy and approaches are realistic and relatable for anyone in any role in law enforcement. Arguably, one of the best online trainings I’ve experienced in my 25 year career." -Matt Watson, Training Attendee "D.J.’s talk was a great way to wrap up the conference. It really made me think about what I’m doing with these kids as far as influencing them, creating leaders, and loving them till they wonder why." -Shaun Mudd, Training Attendee Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY D.J. Schoeff is a veteran law enforcement officer, nationally recognized school safety expert, and dynamic leadership consultant. He currently serves as the Deputy Chief of Administration for the Carmel Police Department in Indiana, bringing over two decades of dedicated public service as a third-generation police officer. D.J.’s career uniquely bridges private-sector expertise and public service. Prior to joining law enforcement, he traveled internationally as a corporate trainer-a background that built his strong foundation in public speaking and workforce development. Over the course of 14+ years as a School Resource Officer (SRO) and SRO Supervisor, D.J. emerged as a leading voice in national school safety. He is a Charter Board Member of the Indiana School Resource Officers Association and previously served as President of the National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO). Hiss advocacy was instrumental in defining SRO roles in Indiana law and securing millions of dollars in federal and state funding for school safety nationwide. As a John C. Maxwell Certified Leadership Coach, Speaker, and Trainer, D.J. seamlessly blends his front-line security background with proven leadership principles. He is dedicated to empowering audiences and inspiring leaders to create a lasting, significant impact within their own organizations and communities. Book D.J. TODAY!

Featured AVAILABLE TO BOOK EXCLUSIVELY THROUGH THE SAFE AND SOUND SPEAKERS BUREAU Dr. Savahanna Wagner has dedicated the last 15 years of her career to emergency preparedness and school safety, combining her medical expertise with a commitment to improving trauma response in educational settings. As co-founder of Rescue in Color, she co-developed an intuitive, color-coded bleeding control system designed to empower anyone within a school environment to act swiftly and effectively during life-threatening emergencies. Dr. Wagner's work emphasizes the importance of proactive, hands-on training and equipping school communities with the tools and confidence to respond to critical incidents. Her approach fosters a culture of preparedness and shared responsibility, ensuring that safety measures are accessible and actionable for everyone. WHY Book Savahanna FOR YOUR EVENT? "Savahanna brings an entirely different perspective as the doctor, and having [Rescue in Color] train and talk to you, you truly have experts in the field. They have the whole gamut covered from first responder to law enforcement to medical staff. Their wealth of knowledge is absolutely amazing." —Missy Dodds, Survivor of the Red Lake High School Shooting WHO Books Savahanna ? Savahanna’s speaking style is energetic, approachable, and deeply rooted in real-world emergency response experience. She connects with audiences through clear, practical instruction, relatable scenarios, and a strong focus on empowering everyday people to take lifesaving action in moments of crisis. Her presentations cover topics such as trauma-informed emergency preparedness, bleeding control, school-based crisis response, and building a culture of confident, capable responders across the school community. Recent audiences Savahanna has spoken to include: Northeast School Safety Summit Gangs, Guns, and School Violence Prevention Summit (Vancouver, BC) Midwest School Safety Summit Add your school or organization to the list of those inspired by Dr. Wagner - book her today! BOOK TODAY DR. SAVAHANNA WAGNER Co-Founder Rescue in Color Emergency Medical Expert BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Savahanna TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! SPEAKER Topics Include Health & Wellness Operations & Emergency Management Safety & Security Physical Security & Risk Assessment School Shooters: Profiles & Prevention Emergency Preparedness & Response Stop the Bleed Trauma-Informed Practices Inclusive School Safety Practices Signature PRESENTATIONS Click on the titles to learn more about each signature presentation and fill out the form below to book for your next event. Beyond the Band-Aids: Implementing a Bleeding Control Program in K-12 Space Join Dr. Savahanna Wagner and Officer Meg Soultz, founders of Rescue in Color, for a pragmatic discussion on implementing bleeding control education and equipment in school settings. While CPR and AED training have long been part of school emergency preparedness, districts now face new legislative demands and community expectations regarding traumatic injury response. This course equips school administrators, educators and law enforcement professionals with practical strategies for integrating such a curriculum into the K-12 setting, ensuring effective emergency preparedness in today's evolving landscape. This presentation is most appropriate as a keynote address or breakout session. Before Help Arrives: Response to Traumatic Injuries by Civilian Responders Join Dr. Savahanna Wagner and Officer Meg Soultz for a didactic and psychomotor session on the treatment of patients with life-threatening injuries. Your hands-on experience will help you become familiar with essential bleeding control skills including how to properly assess a patient, stop external blood loss, address chest injuries, and more! This course is tailored to the audience and is an approachable and safe space for learning these potentially life-saving skills. This training is most appropriate as a breakout session or hands-on in person training by request. We can tailor this training to the needs of the organization making the request, but is often given as a 2 hour basic training for the end user (teachers, administrators, bus drivers, etc.), an advanced 2 hour course for responders with additional training (first responders, police officers, nurses), or full day train the trainer course for nurses or police officers looking to train their own organizations. We have also done a shortened version of this as a 1-hour breakout session. Class sizes are generally limited to 20 students per instructor. Larger groups require 2 instructors. BOOK NOW Review 1 Review 2 "I have found them to both be passionate, really exceptional individuals, who care deeply about ensuring our school systems are safe and that students have what they need in the classroom and teachers have what they need in a classroom if there really is an emergency situation." -Nathan Flansburg, Superintendent PACT Charter Schools "Dr. Wagner actually sat on the district crisis committee and we were implementing Rescue in Color into a number of our schools trying to be able to make sure that they were easily accessible for emergency situations should a tragic event ever happen." -Nathan Flansburg, Superintendent PACT Charter Schools Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY Dr. Savahanna Wagner is an Internal Medicine physician, international speaker, and co-founder of Rescue in Color, a pioneering women-owned company focused on school safety through intuitive, color-coded bleeding control kits and innovative training programs. With nearly 20 years of experience in emergency medical services, disaster medicine, and healthcare preparedness, Dr. Wagner brings a rare blend of clinical expertise, public health insight, and heartfelt advocacy to her work. She began her career at age 18 as an EMT in rural Indiana and went on to serve in leadership roles in EMS training, trauma and injury prevention, and hospital emergency preparedness. She has coordinated crisis planning efforts among hospital systems, public health departments, and regional emergency management partners, and helped lead mass casualty and disaster response trainings across the Midwest. Dr. Wagner holds a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine, where she also developed and implemented a disaster triage curriculum that remains part of the core medical education program. She also earned a Master of Public Health from University College Dublin, where she served as the university’s Ambassador to the Irish Forum on Global Health, and a Master of Science in Biology from Purdue University. Today, Dr. Wagner works as a hospital-based Internist in Minneapolis, Minnesota. She leads overnight rapid response teams, trains medical students and residents, and serves on her hospital’s Emergency Preparedness Committee. Her research has been published in JACC, Transplantation Proceedings, and Journal of Cardiothoracic Surgery. She has presented nationally on disaster resilience, transplant equity, and innovations in care delivery. Inspired by her role as a mother, Dr. Wagner co-founded Rescue in Color to bring evidence-based, approachable emergency response tools into schools and community settings. The company’s intuitive, color-coded bleeding control kits are designed to empower everyday bystanders—including teachers and students—to act confidently in life-threatening emergencies. Rescue in Color has earned recognition from state-level boards of education, national school safety organizations, and education leaders across the country. The company was also awarded the prestigious EmpowHer Grant by the Boundless Futures Foundation in recognition of its mission-driven impact. Dr. Wagner’s mission is rooted in the belief that preparedness is not about instilling fear, but about empowering people to act. Through her clinical work, public speaking, and advocacy, she continues to inspire communities to turn knowledge into life-saving action. Book Savahanna TODAY! Testimonials

Dr. Peter Langman is an internationally recognized expert in the field of school safety, particularly known for his deep research on school shooters and the psychology behind their violent behaviors. With extensive experience as a psychologist and researcher, Dr. Langman’s work focuses on identifying warning signs and preventing targeted violence in schools. His research into the profiles of school shooters has made him a trusted authority in the field, helping schools and organizations better understand the complex biological, psychological, social and cultural factors that contribute to violence. As a speaker, Dr. Langman offers practical, evidence-based insights on threat assessment, early intervention strategies, and creating safer school environments. His expertise makes him an invaluable resource for schools and organizations looking to enhance their preventative measures and improve overall safety protocols. WHY Book Dr. Peter FOR YOUR EVENT? “ Dr. Peter Langman has studied and described the psychology of school shooters as deeply as anyone in our country … For any organization that wants its employees and community to more fully understand the psychological conditions of potential school shooters, Dr. Langman’s presentation and perspective will facilitate a more grounded and thorough understanding of this unfortunate phenomenon.” —Dr. Joseph B. Moore, President, Lesley University WHO Books Dr. Peter ? Dr. Peter Langman is a leading voice in school safety, known for his compelling presentations and unmatched expertise in the psychology of school shooters. A highly sought-after speaker, he translates decades of research into clear, actionable strategies for threat assessment and violence prevention. With a calm, authoritative presence, Dr. Langman helps educators, mental health professionals, and safety teams recognize warning signs and strengthen their prevention protocols. His evidence-based approach and deep subject matter knowledge make him a trusted partner for schools and organizations committed to proactive, informed safety practices. Recent audiences and conferences include: FBI Headquarters (Washington, DC) FBI National Academy (Quantico) National Counterterrorism Center Department of Homeland Security National Behavioral Intervention Team Association Michigan State Police Lehigh Carbon School Counselors Association Green River Regional Educational Cooperative Easton Area School District Add your school or organization to the list of those inspired by Peter Langman – book him today! BOOK TODAY DR. PETER LANGMAN Author and Expert in the Psychology of School Shooters BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Dr. Peter TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! Peter’s books, Why Kids Kill: Inside the Minds of School Shooters , Warning Signs: Identifying School Shooters Before They Strike , and School Shooters: Understanding High School, College, and Adult Perpetrators are available on Amazon. SPEAKER Topics Include Mental & Behavioral Health Leadership, Law & Policy Identifying & Supporting At-Risk Students Behavioral Threat Assessment & Management Averted School Violence Case Studies School Shooters: Profiles & Prevention 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. Preventing School Shootings Available as either half-day or full-day training The presentation will first identify and refute common misconceptions about school shooters, with an emphasis on moving beyond the stereotypes and highlighting the diversity of perpetrators. It also explains the variations among school shootings, including random, targeted, and mixed attacks. We will then explore three psychological types of shooters—psychopathic, psychotic, and traumatized—using case examples to illustrate the types, and highlighting patterns of failures and rejections that contribute to the shooters’ rage and motivations for violence. The second half of the presentation distinguishes threat assessment as a proactive preventive strategy from emergency response procedures, which are reactive. This section highlights the wide range of warning signs of potential violence, including threats, attack-related behavior, and leakage. It also discusses the barriers that both students and adults may experience that keep them from reporting the warning signs they encounter. Lessons Learned from a Threat Assessment that Failed 90-minute Workshop The presentation will first identify and refute common misconceptions about school shooters. In 2013, Karl Pierson threatened to kill the school's librarian. The administration conducted a threat assessment and concluded that Pierson presented a "low level" threat. Three months later, he committed his attack. What went wrong? Where did the threat assessment fall short? What more could have been done? This workshop looks at the records that have been released to highlight key aspects of the threat assessment process, impediments to the flow of information, and the facts that could have been discovered with a more thorough, ongoing investigation. Pathways to Violence: Three Types of School Shooters 90-minute Workshop This presentation dispels common misconceptions about school shooters always being bullied loners by demonstrating the diversity of perpetrators. It then presents a psychological typology of school shooters, dividing them into three categories: psychopathic, psychotic, and traumatized. A case example of each of the three types is presented to demonstrate the range of perpetrators and the contributing factors in their violence. Warning Signs in Student Assignments 90-minute Workshop The presentation will first identify and refute common misconceptions about school shooters. A potential source of information that is often overlooked is the presence of warning signs in student assignments. This presentation examines actual homework assignments of school shooters to highlight how subtle (and sometimes not so subtle) warning signs appear in student work. Utilizing these warning signs as a starting point for a threat assessment investigation, it then demonstrates the amount of information that could have been gathered if an inquiry had been conducted. The Motivations and Justifications of Mass Attackers 90-minute Workshop The presentation will first identify and refute common misconceptions about school shooters. This presentation draws on the writings of perpetrators to gain insight into the dynamics driving them toward violence. Though school shooters often claim that they are retaliating for some injustice they have endured, the sources of their violence are typically found in their flawed sense of self, disturbing personality traits, and the drive to transform themselves from unknown, powerless "nobodies" into figures of power and significance. BOOK NOW Review 1 Review 2 “Dr. Langman’s information was clear and concise, shedding much needed light toward understanding the motivation of today’s youth who contemplate rampage school violence … Few who study school shootings have delved as deep as Langman into the often murky and troubled minds of these predators.” —Samantha Dutill, Associate Executive Director, National Behavioral Intervention Team Association “Dr. Langman’s presentation was one of the best forums we’ve had in our many years of putting on these events. The presentation was so rich in substance and relevant to all five of our concentrations that students are still speaking about how wonderful it was and how we’d love to have him back. It was an amazing presentation.” —Lisa Corbin-Kalinowski, Field Placement Coordinator, Holy Family University Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY Dr. Peter Langman is a psychologist whose research on school shooters has received international recognition. His book, Why Kids Kill: Inside the Minds of School Shooters , was translated into German, Dutch, Finnish, Russian, and Serbian. His work has been cited in congressional testimony on Capitol Hill and he has been interviewed over 600 times by media outlets in 35 countries. After the Sandy Hook attack, the CEO of the American Psychological Association presented Dr. Langman’s recommendations on school safety to President Obama. He has presented at both the FBI Headquarters in Washington, DC, and the FBI National Academy in Quantico. He has been an invited speaker at the National Counterterrorism Center and was hired by Homeland Security to train professionals in school safety. He maintains the largest online collection of materials relating to school shooters at schoolshooters.info, including over 600 documents totaling 70,000 pages. His book, School Shooters: Understanding High School, College, and Adult Perpetrators was published in 2015. From 2018 to 2023 , Dr. Langman was a researcher with the National Threat Assessment Center of the United States Secret Service. His latest book is Warning Signs: Identifying School Shooters Before They Strike . In 2025, Dr. Langman became the Senior Advisor on Violence Prevention at ZeroEyes, a company dedicated to preventing firearm violence. Book Dr. Peter TODAY! Testimonials

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