Prevent 2 Protect is a unique partnership that draws upon the expertise of Michigan State University and Safe and Sound Schools, to provide a research-to-practice hub located in MSU’s Department of Psychiatry, in which psychiatrists, criminologists, resident physicians, allied health professionals, educators, and targeted violence prevention experts support community-based intensive support teams, provide consultation, training, technical assistance... THE ADOLESCENT TARGETED VIOLENCE PREVENTION PROJECT Prevent 2 Protect is a unique partnership that draws upon the expertise of Michigan State University and Safe and Sound Schools, to provide a research-to-practice hub located in MSU’s Department of Psychiatry , in which psychiatrists, criminologists, resident physicians, allied health professionals, educators, and targeted violence prevention experts support community-based intensive support teams, provide consultation, training, technical assistance, and conduct research to inform school violence prevention policies and practices in Michigan and nationally. PREVENTING TARGETED VIOLENCE IN SCHOOLS Research and evidence-based practices are the foundation of Prevent 2 Protect’s response to the continuing threat of targeted school violence. However, research alone is insufficient to mitigate attacks. We must try new ideas and strategies to prevent violence in our schools and other public spaces. Prevent 2 Protect aims to help support high-risk adolescents and their families who too often fall into the “gaps” between the education, mental health, and criminal justice systems. Our goal is to reduce risk and support local school violence prevention efforts in Michigan communities by connecting high-risk adolescents and their caregivers to Prevent 2 Protect’s intensive support teams and the Project’s subject matter experts. LEARN MORE FOUNDERS & MISSION Our mission is to prevent adolescent targeted violence, increase school safety, and support communities through evidence-based intervention, community consultation, education, and research. Alyse Folino Ley, DO Co-Director, Prevent 2 Protect Frank Straub, PhD Co-Director, Prevent 2 Protect Prevent 2 PROTECT

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

Dr. Todd Savage is a nationally recognized authority on school safety, culturally responsive practices, and inclusion, dedicated to equipping educators with actionable strategies to foster safe, supportive learning environments. With a deep commitment to equity and student well-being, his programs empower school communities to proactively support all students. He brings practical insight from years of experience training school teams through PREPaRE crisis response workshops and delivering high-impact, inclusive education initiatives. Known for his collaborative and research-based approach, Dr. Savage stands out by blending expertise with empathy to create lasting change. His presentations are not only informative but transformative, making him a trusted voice for schools striving to meet the needs of every student. WHY Book Dr. Savage FOR YOUR EVENT? “Todd was a great presenter and our audience gained knowledge from the 2-day workshop. I had positive feedback from all of our attendees. I am happy to say that we learned many things and it brought up driving questions for me to take back to our administrators about how we handle crisis response. We would definitely have Todd back again.” —Becky Wiginton, Director of College and Career Readiness, Midlothian ISD WHO Books Dr. Savage ? Dr. Todd Savage’s compelling expertise and thoughtful presentation style have established him as a respected and in-demand speaker. Todd offers deep knowledge in school psychology and a strong, research-based commitment to inclusion and student well-being. Todd is a trusted choice for schools, districts, and organizations focused on creating safe, affirming, and trauma-informed educational environments. Recent audiences include: Katy Independent School District Midlothian Independent School District St. Paul Academy and Summit School Art and Science Academy Add your school or organization to the list of those inspired by Todd - book him today! BOOK TODAY DR. TODD SAVAGE Professor of School Psychology BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Dr. Savage TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! SPEAKER Topics Include Mental & Behavioral Health Culture, Climate, & Community Leadership, Law, & Policy Bullying & Cyberbullying Prevention Suicide Prevention & Mental Health Support Identifying & Supporting At-Risk Students Intervention Strategies MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) Behavioral Threat Assessment & Management Trauma-Informed Practices Childhood Trauma & Adverse Experiences Inclusive School Safety Practices Special Education Considerations LGBTQ+ Safety Signature PRESENTATIONS Click on the titles to learn more about each signature presentation and fill out the form below to book for your next event. Understanding and Supporting Transgender and Gender Diverse Students in School (Standard 3-4 hour workshop, Minimum 1 ½ hour session, Up to an 8-hour workshop) The purpose of this session is to provide the participant with increased awareness and knowledge about gender diversity and schools; family matters about raising a transgender child and navigating the education system in this regard will also be presented. Finally, specific strategies participants can employ to support transgender and gender diverse students will be highlighted. Learning will be supported through direct instruction, large- and small-group work, and resources that can be employed to facilitate these processes. Session Objectives: To enhance participants’ awareness of gender identity and gender diversity matters in schools from multiple perspectives; To introduce tools participants can use not only to assess a system’s readiness to accommodate transgender and gender diverse students but to determine the support and transition needs of individual gender diverse youth; To highlight strategies participants can employ to support transgender and gender diverse students and to improve school climates as they pertain to gender diversity. PREPaRE Workshop #2 - Mental Health Crisis Interventions: Responding to an Acute Traumatic Stressor in Schools (3rd Edition) (Two Day 13-hour Workshop) This two-day workshop provides school-based mental health professionals and other school crisis intervention team members with the knowledge necessary to meet the mental health needs of students and staff following a school-associated crisis event. With updated research and crisis intervention strategies, this workshop teaches participants how to prevent and prepare for psychological trauma, reaffirm both the physical health of members of the school community and students’ perceptions that they are safe and secure, evaluate the degree of psychological trauma, respond to the psychological needs of members of the school community, and examine the effectiveness of school crisis intervention and recovery efforts. This workshop is an excellent course for all mental health professionals in your district who provide mental health crisis intervention services. This educator is also available to present the PREPaRE ToT (Training of Trainers) Workshops that correspond to the PREPaRE workshops described above. NOTE: The maximum number of participants is 45. There are additional fees of $55 per participant for materials that will be ordered directly from NASP. All materials are electronic, so there are no shipping fees. PREPaRE Workshop #1 - Comprehensive School Safety Planning: Prevention Through Recovery (3rd Edition) (One Day, 6.5-hour Workshop) In this newly updated workshop, participants will learn how to establish and sustain comprehensive school safety and crisis prevention and preparedness efforts. With updated research and strategies, this workshop makes a clearer connection between ongoing school safety and crisis preparedness. It also emphasizes the unique needs and functions of school teams and the steps involved in developing these teams, including a model that integrates school personnel and community provider roles. The PREPaRE model builds on existing personnel, resources and programs, and can be adapted to individual school needs and size. Finally, the workshop explores how to prepare for school crises by developing, exercising, and evaluating safety and crisis plans. This workshop is an excellent course for mental health and educational professionals working at all grade levels in your district that help establish a safe school climate and respond to crises. NOTE: The maximum number of participants is 100. There are additional fees of $45 per participant for materials that will be ordered directly from NASP. All materials are electronic, so there are no shipping fees. BOOK NOW Testimonials Review 1 Review 2 Review 3 “Dr. Todd Savage was invaluable to our school in helping to broaden our understanding of gender diversity, to shape our school policies in support of gender diversity, and to educate our full community — parents, faculty/staff, students — with regard to this important topic. He led with sensitivity, openness, and compassion, both for his work and for the vast differences in opinion and understanding among his audience. As a consultant and partner in the work, his professionalism and deep understanding of the social, psychological, and political landscape, combined with a rich and nuanced understanding of child and adolescent development, continues to be a vital source of ongoing support and guidance for our community.” —S. Jill Romans, Ph.D., LP, Assistant Head of School: Student Development and Community Engagement, St. Paul Academy and Summit School “Todd did an excellent job. He connected with teachers in the audience and, as board chair, provided me with better understanding of the direction we need to take for training teachers and staff to achieve optimal student achievement. He also worked well with other speakers — the local Police Chief and the Mayor. A key measure of his effectiveness that I witnessed was his demeanor — he reached all, regardless of their beliefs, level of education, and socio-economic status.” —Suesan Mackert, Board Chair, Art and Science Academy Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY Todd A. Savage, Ph.D., NCSP is a professor of school psychology, Department of Counseling and School Psychology, College of Education & Professional Studies, University of Wisconsin-River Falls (UWRF). A first-generation college student, Todd earned his bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Minnesota and went on to earn master, educational specialist, and doctoral degrees in school psychology from the University of Kentucky, after having completed a pre-doctoral internship in the Omaha (NE) Public Schools. Todd taught at the University of Kentucky for two years before securing his first faculty position in school psychology at New Mexico State University in Las Cruces, New Mexico; he has been in his current position at UWRF since 2008. Todd has held several leadership positions in the National Association of Schools Psychologists (NASP), a 25,000-member strong professional organization, eventually serving as its 47th president during 2015-2016. Throughout his career, Todd has engaged in scholarly and service activities in the areas of culturally-responsive practice; school safety and crisis prevention, preparedness, and intervention; and LGBTQ+ matters they pertain to education. In fact, throughout the past five years, he has focused his energies on providing professional development for teachers, administrators, school-based mental health professionals, and other school personnel on understanding and supporting transgender and gender diverse students in schools. Book Dr. Savage TODAY!

John McDonald is a recognized expert in school safety and crisis management, with a strong track record of developing and implementing strategies that protect students, staff, and communities. As the Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of the Council for School Safety Leadership, as well as the COO of the Missouri School Boards’ Association Center for Education Safety, he brings a wealth of experience in creating comprehensive safety plans, improving emergency preparedness, and guiding organizations through real-world crises. John’s approach emphasizes proactive risk management, building resilient safety cultures, and fostering collaboration among school leaders, law enforcement, and community stakeholders. As a speaker, he offers actionable insights on crisis prevention, response, and recovery, making him a valuable resource for schools and organizations committed to strengthening their safety and security measures. WHY Book John FOR YOUR EVENT? “For years, we tried to find a school safety consultant or agency that brought real life experience and expertise to the table rather than just personal opinions. Upon finding John McDonald, it was apparent to me and our nearly fifty public schools that our search was over. Since December of 2012, we have worked closely with John to standardize our school safety programs county wide. From threat assessments to student/staff and first responder response and reunification and recovery, John has been here to guide us through it all .” —Kevin Burd, Hunterdon County Prosecutors Office, Hunterdon County, New Jersey WHO Books John ? John McDonald is a dynamic and respected leader in school safety and crisis management, known for his clear, pragmatic approach and deep operational expertise. A seasoned speaker and advisor, John brings real-world experience to every stage of safety planning—from prevention to response and recovery. His collaborative style and actionable guidance resonate with school leaders, emergency personnel, and community partners alike. John is a top choice for organizations seeking to strengthen their safety culture, enhance preparedness, and build lasting resilience across their systems. Recent audiences and conferences include: Lake County Regional Office of Education Hunterdon County, New Jersey Add your school or organization to the list of those inspired by John McDonald – book him today! BOOK TODAY JOHN MCDONALD Co-founder & Chief Operating Officer, Council for School Safety Leadership (CSSL) BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING John TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! Coming Soon: John’s new book, “The Essential 5” will be released in 2025. Stay tuned for more information! SPEAKER Topics Include Safety & Security Leadership, Law & Policy Operations & Emergency Management Behavioral Threat Assessment & Management Violence Prevention Strategies Physical Security & Risk Assessment Emergency Preparedness Strategies Active Shooter Preparedness & Response Signature PRESENTATIONS Click on the titles to learn more about each signature presentation and fill out the form below to book for your next event. Stop Justifying and Believe the Threat 45-minute to 1.5-hour Keynote 25 years into the modern era of school violence, and we continue to struggle with the prevention, preparation for, response to, and recovery from school shootings. This keynote is a direct, honest conversation about the challenges, failures, and lessons learned, as well as successes and trends occurring around the country. Developed for both educators and first responders, this discussion addresses vital issues these groups are facing, including threat management practices, emergency management, incident command principles, and classroom management struggles. It’s time to stop justifying and believe the threat. “The World Isn’t a Scary Place...But it is Uncertain” 45-minute to 1.5-hour Keynote Nationally recognized school safety leader John McDonald is known for developing the post Columbine security program recognized by the White House following the Sandy Hook tragedy as a model school safety program. His work on the front lines of school safety has included managing ongoing threats to Columbine HS, leading the district through the 2nd Deer Creek Middle School shooting, the kidnapping and homicide of 10-year-old Jessica Ridgeway while walking to school and the tragic suicide of a student who set himself on fire at school in front of more than 200 classmates. John’s presentation will discuss the challenges of being a responder and the impact of loss, trauma and the challenges of responsibility when even the responders’ assumptions are shattered. No Higher Calling 45-minte to 1.5-hour Keynote Law enforcement and educators alike share a common bond and belief that protecting our most precious resource–our children– is the greatest of responsibilities. Breaking down silos and a willingness to have difficult conversations today is the difference in success or failure of tomorrow's crisis. This presentation shares proven and successful strategies that will create a climate and culture of safety and quality education. BOOK NOW Review 1 Review 2 “John is wonderful to work with and an outstanding presenter. I really enjoyed meeting him and the knowledge he brings to school safety is amazing.” —Shay McCorkle, Director of Educational Services, Lake County Regional Office of Education “John’s presentation went over very well. I know of one attendee that left with a commitment to go back and work on a ‘disaster’ emergency plan that would involve his fleet of vehicles. So, I would say his presentation was thought provoking and action promoting. John was a delight to work with. I’m sure we will be working together again.” —Gloria Showalter, Executive Assistant & Events Coordinator at Synovia Solutions Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY John McDonald co-founded The Council for School Safety Leadership (CSSL) in 2022, and today serves as the organization's chief operating officer. This new national school safety organization provides crisis management services for executive leaders. Within CSSL's first two months, John assembled a network of national experts and hit the ground running by supporting executive school district leaders after a school shooting in St. Louis, which was the 7th school shooting John has responded to or provided support to during the past 14 years. John's work protecting kids has been featured on the front page of the Washington Post and in the Showtime documentary "Active Shooter: America Under Fire," as well as in the FBI documentaries "Echoes of Columbine" and "In the Aftermath." John is recognized internationally as the architect of the post-Columbine tragedy safety, security, and emergency management plan, now considered a gold standard in the industry. For 14 years, John was responsible for protecting 86,000 students and 14,000 employees as executive director of school safety for Jeffco Public Schools in Colorado. Along the way, he made a difference by leading school safety preparedness, response, and recovery efforts not just in Colorado, but also in districts around the country following various school-related tragedies. In 2016, John created the Frank DeAngelis Center for Community Safety, located in Colorado. This first-of-its-kind, school-owned active shooter training center has provided no-cost training to more than 12,000 first responders and educators. Following the Sandy Hook tragedy, the White House asked John to speak about the importance of active shooter preparedness in America's schools and the imperative of building positive relationships between schools, students, and law enforcement. In 2022, John was awarded the prestigious Homeland Security ASTORS award for "his dedication to safeguarding our nation's children." John's work helping school districts make sense of the unimaginable so kids and teachers can get back to the business of learning goes far beyond school shootings. He led Jeffco Public Schools' recovery efforts following kidnapping and homicide of 10-year-old Jessica Ridgeway in Westminster, Colorado and after the public suicide of a student who set himself on fire in front of 200 students. Often sought out as a national presenter and by media both for us insight and his willingness to share the uncomfortable truths impacting school communities, John provides support for K-12 and higher ed institutions because he believes that every student deserves a safe learning environment free from threat, intimidation, and harassment. John earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice and Criminology from Metro State University in Colorado. His experience as a former police officer, proud Army National Guard veteran, and senior manager of U.S. investigations for a worldwide corporation have provided the foundation for a life's work protecting the most innocent. Book John TODAY! Testimonials

Safe and Sound Schools is proud to introduce our newest program, Pathways for Prevention! This program was created to provide a practical approach to school violence prevention. Participants will explore universal violence prevention strategies, as well as targeted and intensive interventions for preventing and responding to violent behaviors to support safe and sound learning environments. BRING OUR PROGRAM TO YOUR COMMUNITY Pathways for Prevention equips school communities to better understand and leverage tools such as Multi-tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) to keep their campus safe.This program was created to provide a practical approach to school violence prevention. Participants will explore universal violence prevention strategies, as well as targeted and intensive interventions for preventing and responding to violent behaviors to support safe and sound learning environments. Keep scrolling to learn more, including detailed information about each module, and our lead trainers. VALUE & OUTCOMES Our Workshops Will Help Participants: Understand and apply MTSS Learn to identify and utilize systems of support within school communities to ensure student growth, wellness, and safety Learn to foster a culture of care in their school community Understand how to assess and manage active threats in school communities to prevent school violence Explore universal violence prevention strategies, as well as targeted and intensive interventions for preventing and responding to violent behaviors to support safe and sound learning environments THE TRAINING MODULES Introduction to Pathways for Prevention Module #1 Participants will review the constructs of Multi-tiered Systems of Support and explore the application of MTSS for the prevention of school violence. Through real-world illustrations and examples, participants will recognize MTSS as a model of prevention, intervention, and postvention. Through subsequent modules, participants will learn to identify and utilize systems of support within their school community to ensure student growth, wellness, and safety in identified areas of need. Emotional Awareness and Management Module #2 Emotional awareness and management are critical social-emotional competencies that support student growth and can help prevent emotional, behavioral, and mental health crises. Through scenario-based examples and activities, these concepts will be defined, and participants will learn how schools can support their students’ growth in these areas in a multi-tiered system of support that focuses on social-emotional learning. Suicide Prevention & Intervention Module #3 Students experience a myriad of emotions as they progress through school. While most cope successfully with these feelings, many will harbor emotional pain so great that they have thoughts of suicide. In fact, approximately 50% of lifetime mental health conditions emerge by age 14 and 90% of deaths by suicide had an underlying mental illness. As mental health concerns increase, schools must be ready to address suicide prevention and intervention needs for all students. Through scenario-based examples and activities, participants will learn how to identify risk and protective factors and warning signs of suicide. They will also learn how schools can support students at-risk for suicide through implementation of MTSS such as, conducting suicide risk assessments, safety planning, and reintegrating students back into school after hospitalization. Additionally, best practices in suicide postvention will be defined and reviewed. Identifying and Supporting Student Trauma Experiences Module #4 Students experience various forms and degrees of trauma as a result of death, illness, crisis, and loss, often affecting behavioral, social-emotional and academic growth, which can lead to harmful behaviors if unrecognized and untreated. Through scenario-based examples and activities, participants will learn how to identify traumatic events, experience, and effects. A trauma-informed approach within a multi-tiered system of support will be described, and specific examples and resources will be provided in order to apply the concepts learned. Bullying Prevention and Intervention Module #5 A longstanding challenge for school communities across the country and spanning decades of American public education, bullying behavior is harmful to victims, offenders, and school communities nationwide, as well as linked to long-term mental health impacts and violent behaviors. Participants will explore the myriad issues and presentations of bullying in this module, exploring their impact upon students’ learning and sense of safety in school today. Examining multi-tiered solutions, interventions, strategies, and supports, participants will learn to identify and combat these challenges through universal, targeted, and intensive interventions and resources. Positive Behavior Supports Module #6 This training module explores the power of a positive approach to fostering a safe and welcoming school environment. Examining best practices in proactive, response, and management strategies across a multi-tiered systems approach, participants will gain practical tools for building a positive climate and supportive culture to increase positive student engagement, interaction, and growth, decreasing negative, harmful, and potentially violent behaviors in school. Responding to Threatening Behaviors Module #7 Before and beyond threat assessment, this learning module explores a Multi-tiered Systems of Support approach to preventing, addressing, and managing potential school violence. From fostering a culture of care to assessing and managing an active threat, school communities may be better positioned to prevent school violence than they realize. Participants will explore universal violence prevention strategies, as well as targeted and intensive interventions for preventing and responding to violent behaviors to support a safe learning environment. Supporting Individuals and School Communities Through Grief Experiences Module #8 Grief experiences impact school communities and individuals within the community in various forms and degrees, affecting behavioral, social-emotional and academic growth, potentially lead to harmful behaviors if unrecognized and untreated. Through scenario-based examples and activities, participants will learn how to identify and support individual and shared grief experiences through a multi-tiered systems approach. Copy of Supporting Individuals and School Communities Through Grief Experiences Module #9 Participants will review and discuss a real-world example of school violence prevented through the application of multi-tiered systems of support. MEET THE AUTHORS & LEAD TRAINERS Dr. Stephen Brock Professor and the School Psychology Program Coordinator at College of Education at California State University, Sacramento (CSUS) Ben Fernandez PREPaRE Workshop #1 and #2 Master Trainer and Director of Mental and Behavioral Health Programs, Safe and Sound Schools Michele Gay Co-Founder and Executive Director, Safe and Sound Schools Dr. Amanda Nickerson Professor and Director of the Alberti Center for Bullying Abuse Prevention at the University at Buffalo, the State University of New York Dr. Melissa Reeves Senior Advisor, Safe and Sound Schools and Senior Threat Manager & Trainer, SIGMA Threat Management Associates, an Ontic Company Bring Safe and Sound Training TO YOUR SCHOOL, DISTRICT OR ORGANIZATION! Our expert team is dedicated to empowering school safety stakeholders across the U.S. and beyond with training and tailored consulting. If none of our existing programs are the perfect fit, we also offer customized consulting to help you strengthen your school safety efforts. Please complete the form below to get started, and a member of our team will be in touch soon! Dive Deeper Learn more about Pathways for Prevention and how it can equip your school community with a practical approach to school violence prevention LEARN MORE Pathways FOR PREVENTION GET TRAINING

Safe and Sound Schools is a national nonprofit dedicated to improving school safety through research-based programs, crisis preparedness, and community engagement. Explore expert resources, training, and advocacy to create safer learning environments. Safe and Sound Students is a program designed to help students learn and get involved in school safety. The program equips students with resources to help them become advocates, leaders, agents of change, and tools to help them navigate and address school safety issues. GET INVOLVED Simple ways to get started SEE SOMETHING Speak up for school safety LEARN MORE TEAM UP Recruit others to join you LEARN MORE GET PREPARED Learn how to lead the conversation LEARN MORE LEARN Feel more prepared and confident. RESOURCE LIBRARY Check out school safety topics LEARN MORE NEWS HEADLINES Make sense of headlines and news LEARN MORE MAKE YOUR VOICES HEARD START A SAFE AND SOUND STUDENT CLUB Become a school safety leader GET STARTED Safe & Sound STUDENTS

Join Michele Gay, Founder and Executive Director of Safe and Sound Schools, Mo Canady, Executive Director of NASRO, for a 60-minute session designed to help school safety stakeholders learn from averted acts of violence. Lessons in Prevention: Real Cases and Insights from the Averted School Violence Database BACK Join Michele Gay, Founder and Executive Director of Safe and Sound Schools, Mo Canady, Executive Director of NASRO, for a 60-minute session designed to help school safety stakeholders learn from averted acts of violence. Every day, students, parents, educators, and school-based law enforcement officers take actions — big and small — that prevent tragedies in K-12 communities. These moments of awareness, courage, and coordination often go unseen, yet they hold powerful lessons for those seeking best practices to prevent future violence. This webinar explores the Averted School Violence (ASV) Project and recognizes these meaningful acts. The discussion features real-world cases analyzed for key takeaways to help attendees recognize warning signs, strengthen safety systems, and build more resilient schools.

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 Testimonials Review 1 Review 2 Review 3 “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!

Featured AVAILABLE TO BOOK EXCLUSIVELY THROUGH THE SAFE AND SOUND SPEAKERS BUREAU In 2016, Molly B. Hudgens made national headlines for her courageous intervention in preventing a mass shooting at Sycamore Middle School, where she successfully talked a student with a loaded handgun out of committing the act. Her bravery, faith, and deep understanding of the student’s needs during the 90-minute encounter, earned her the Congressional Medal of Honor Citizens Award for a single act of heroism. With two decades of experience in education and extensive studies on school shootings and those who commit these acts, Hudgens offers schools and organizations practical, evidence-based strategies for navigating crisis situations. Her powerful story and expert insights resonate deeply with audiences, empowering them to foster strong support systems, resilience, and safe environments for both staff and students. In addition to inspiring audiences through her presentations, Hudgens continues to serve as a school counselor at Sycamore Middle School. WHY Book Molly FOR YOUR EVENT? “Molly Hudgens' presentation was truly one of the most impactful experiences our staff has had. Her storytelling ability and her powerful, first-hand insights into school safety kept everyone engaged from start to finish. Her compelling message resonated deeply with our team, shedding light on the vital role of building positive relationships with students. As one staff member put it, ' This was possibly the most impactful professional learning activity I have had in 27 years .' Molly’s story of resilience and her dedication to working with our unique student population not only inspired but empowered us to continue reaching out to our students. We are grateful for her insight, her authenticity, and her timely and relevant message on a topic that affects us all.” —Taylor Stowe, Director of Professional Learning, Mountain Education Charter High School WHO Books Molly ? Molly’s lived experience inspires every audience she speaks to, driving them to prepare for a moment where they might be called to “step into the gap” and intervene with a student in crisis. She is popular with a ride range of organizations, including: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Knoxville Edmonton Police Service, Alberta, Canada National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO) California Association for School Counselors Georgia Emergency Management & Homeland Secuity Agency Indiana Department of Education Iowa Dare Association Michigan State Police Kentucky Center for School Safety North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services, Center for School and Campus Safety Tennessee Child Care Resource & Referral Network Virginia School Counselor Association Coastal Plains Regional Educational Service Agency Region 9 Education Service Center Otsego Northern Catskills BOCES Buena Park Mayor’s Office BOOK TODAY MOLLY BRADLEY HUDGENS School Counselor and Congressional Medal of Honor Citizens Honor Recipient BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Molly TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! SPEAKER Topics Include Mental & Behavioral Health Culture, Climate & Community Suicide Prevention & Mental Health Support Identifying & Supporting At-Risk Students Intervention Strategies MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Support) Averted School Violence Case Studies School Shooters: Profiles & Prevention Trauma-Informed Practices Childhood Trauma & Adverse Experiences Recovery & Resilience After Tragedy Lessons Learned from Tragedy Special Education Considerations Signature PRESENTATIONS Click on the titles to learn more about each signature presentation and fill out the form below to book for your next event. Saving Sycamore: The School Shooting That Never Happened 45-minute to 1-hour keynote and Q&A/Meet & Greet Molly shares the story of how she prevented a school shooting on September 28, 2016. Hudgens’ retelling of the event walks the audience through the specifics of the incident that took place in her office and highlights previous training that affected her decision-making process during the event. Hudgens speaks boldly of her faith throughout and challenges those in attendance to remember that every human interaction matters and that one life can make a difference. Perspectives In Prevention: From Sandy Hook to Sycamore 1-2 Hour Keynote Co-presented in braided format by presenters Molly Hudgens, school counselor at Sycamore Middle School, and Michele Gay, founder of Safe and Sound, this moving presentation contrasts two pathways to violence. Exploring numerous opportunities, practical strategies, and best practices for intervention, Michele and Molly highlight the power of each of us collectively to change the trajectory of an individual on the pathway to violence. Standing in the Gap: How Student-Driven Incident Reporting Guides our Sycamore Safety Initiatives After an averted school shooting in 2016, safety and security became more than just a broad concept for Sycamore Middle School in rural Cheatham County - thirty miles west of Nashville, Tennessee. In the aftermath, school officials around the world reached out asking about the school culture that had brought about a peaceful resolution when an armed eighth grader relinquished his weapon to counseling staff after a ninety-minute intervention. In this presentation, school counselors, Molly Hudgens and Matthew Shuff, will share how their staff navigated behavioral threat assessment initiatives, focused on school culture, and, forced by the pandemic, created a simple, yet effective method for student reporting. Challenged with finding a way for students to communicate threats, concerns, and requests for counseling, Hudgens and Shuff developed an incident reporting system that now, in year three, drives Sycamore Middle's safety initiatives. Born out of necessity, this streamlined approach allows students direct access to the school's support team and has become a way for a trusted adult to provide interventions, offer care, and develop rapport with students who are struggling while simultaneously gathering data and tracking students of concern. Designed for audiences of school administrators, counselors, classroom educators, nurses, social workers, school resource officers, and support staff, this presentation shows how the whole-school approach, led by the students themselves, has saved lives at Sycamore Middle and can teach others how to do the same in their own school communities. Saving Sycamore: How Faith & Prayer Averted a Mass Shooting 45-minute to 1-hour Keynote and Q&A/Meet & Greet On September 28, 2016, Molly Hudgens, a school counselor at Sycamore Middle School in Pleasant View, Tennessee, averted a mass shooting when a fourteen-year-old eighth grader armed with a fully-loaded, semi-automatic handgun and additional ammunition came to her with a plan to harm people on campus. It would take ninety minutes, and praying with the young man on her knees beside him before he would relinquish the weapon. In her testimony presentation, Hudgens shares how her faith was paramount in preventing a massacre at her school and explains in detail how God prepared her for a spiritual battle that would take place on holy ground in a public school. Saving Sycamore: How to Avert a Mass Shooting on Your Campus 90-minute Keynote and Q&A/Meet & Greet On September 28, 2016, Molly Hudgens, a school counselor at Sycamore Middle School in Pleasant View, Tennessee, averted a mass shooting when a fourteen-year-old eighth grader armed with a fully-loaded, semi-automatic handgun and additional ammunition came to her with a plan to harm people on campus. He told her that she was the only person who could talk it him out of it. After ninety minutes and praying with the young man, he relinquished the weapon with no shots fired and no lives lost. In this presentation Hudgens shares the impact of relationships and school culture on preventing school violence while offering steps to strengthen the safety of students on your own school campuses. Recognizing Red Flags: An Educator’s Role in Preventing Teen Violence 6-hour Session This session is designed to teach professionals how to recognize and respond to young people in crisis, Hudgens’ dissection of “The School Shooting that Never Happened” parallels an in-depth psychological study of school shooters with the behaviors and actions of the young man at her school for the year leading up to and the day of his incident. Hudgens’ explanation will demonstrate how 18 years of research into the psychological mindset of violent teenage offenders on campus prepared her to “Recognize the Red Flags” she used to save her life and that of others at her school that day…including the young man involved. Participants will leave prepared to make changes to their crisis plans in order to include not only recognition of potential offenders and threat assessment tools, but also how to incorporate interventions through mental health counseling, student connectedness, and staff preparedness. The Dissection & Intervention of an “Almost” School Shooter: How Recognizing Red Flags Can Prevent Tragedy 90-minute to 3-hour Keynote and Q&A/Meet & Greet In this workshop, Hudgens, a 21-year veteran of education, guides the audience through the entire ninety minutes of the day she stopped a school shooting using pictures and her first-person account. Designed to teach professionals how to recognize and respond to young people in crisis, Hudgens’ dissection of “The School Shooting that Never Happened” parallels an in-depth psychological study of school shooters with the behaviors and actions of the young man at her school for the year leading up to and the day of his incident. Hudgens’ explanation will demonstrate how 18 years of research into the psychological mindset of violent teenage offenders on campus prepared her to “Recognize the Red Flags” she used to save her life and that of others at her school that day…including the young man involved. Participants will leave prepared to make changes to their crisis plans in order to include not only recognition of potential offenders and threat assessment tools, but also how to incorporate interventions through mental health counseling, student connectedness, and staff preparedness. BOOK NOW Testimonials Review 1 Review 2 Review 3 Our time with Molly yesterday was phenomenal. I had several people tell me that yesterday was the BEST training we have hosted at CPRESA. Nothing but positives from CPRESA. —Tammy Sellers, Coastal Plains Regional Educational Service Agency Molly was wonderful! Her keynote was engaging, motivating and moving. Our participants loved her message and were so happy to receive a copy of her book. Many superintendents were inquiring about booking her for staff development or superintendent retreats. We would love to have her back to Region 9 in the future! — Melissa Burnheimer, Mental Health Specialist, Region 9 Education Service Center Well, I bet you hear this often, Molly is just pure joy. Her presentation touched us all and everyone thoroughly enjoyed listening to her speak. We can’t thank her enough for sharing her story. We would absolutely love to work with you again. —Tammy Blackburn, Departmental Manager, Michigan State Police Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY On September 28, 2016, Molly Hudgens, a school counselor in Pleasant View, Tennessee, averted a school shooting when a fourteen-year-old eighth grader, armed with a semi-automatic handgun and an additional magazine of ammunition, came to her in the counseling department at Sycamore Middle School with a plan to harm people on their campus. He told her, “I think you’re the only person who can talk me out of this.” After ninety minutes of talking and ultimately praying with the young man on her knees beside him, Hudgens was able to convince the student to relinquish the weapon to her with no shots fired and no lives lost. As a result of her intervention, Hudgens became a 2017 recipient of the Congressional Medal of Honor Society’s Citizens Honor for a single act of heroism. After a personal experience in college, her interest in violence prevention and safety sparked a desire to educate others who work with intervening in the lives of potentially violent teenagers. Her in-depth study on school shootings and the teenagers who commit these acts, “Recognizing Red Flags,” written prior to the averted school shooting incident at her school, has been utilized nationally to train professionals in the fields of education, law enforcement, juvenile probation, and juvenile court. The training focuses on understanding the three types of school shooters and how to use threat assessment tools as an intervention to prevent violent acts in a school and community setting. Hudgens, the 2004-2005 and 2016-2017 Sycamore Middle School and Cheatham County Middle School Teacher of the Year, is also the 2017 recipient of the Tennessee School Counseling Association’s Phoebe White Award for Excellence in School Counseling and the 2019 Mental Health of the Midsouth's I.C. Hope Award for bringing mental health awareness to schools. Hudgens has been the recipient of three state recognitions for heroic actions on September 28, 2016—a Proclamation from the Tennessee House of Representatives in October of 2016, House Resolution No. 66 from the Tennessee House of Representatives in March of 2017, and Senate Resolution No. 40 from the Tennessee State Senate in April of 2017. Mrs. Hudgens has also been a nominee for the Carnegie Hero Fund Commission as well as the American Hero Channel’s Red Bandanna Hero Award in 2017. Book Molly TODAY!

Featured Antoinette King, CISSP, PSP, SICC, is a leading voice in school safety, bridging the gap between physical and cybersecurity to help schools and organizations navigate today’s complex threat landscape. With a deep understanding of how digital vulnerabilities impact physical safety, she challenges communities to expand their definition of security and take an integrated approach. Antoinette’s work is built on proactive prevention, shared responsibility, and the belief that safety begin with informed, empowered teams. Through her solutions-focused presentations, Antoinette equips educators, administrators, and safety leaders with the tools they need to protect students in both the physical and digital spaces—making her a vital resource for schools striving to stay ahead of evolving risks. WHY Book Antoinette King FOR YOUR EVENT? “We've had the privilege of working with Antoinette in multiple capacities over the last few years. From her contributions to our Safe, Sound, and Healthy Digital Environments toolkit for educators to her highly rated 'The Invisible Threat: Cyber Risks Facing Today's Students' keynote at our Northeast Summit, she brings passion and expertise to a very critical area in school safety. Having her as an exclusive member of our Safe and Sound Speakers Bureau is an incredible benefit to any school, district, or parent organization navigating the complex environment of physical safety, cyber security, and digital citizenship!” – Michele Gay, Founder and Executive Director, Safe and Sound Schools WHO Books Antoinette King ? Antoinette’s presentations are founded in decades of expertise in both physical and cybersecurity. She connects with audiences through relatable examples, forward-thinking strategies, and a clear commitment to empowering school communities to take action in the face of evolving threats. Her presentations cover topics such as integrated school security, cybersecurity awareness, digital privacy, and building a culture of safety that spans both physical spaces and online environments. Recent audiences Antoinette has spoken to include: Security Industry Association (SIA) Global Security Exchange (GSX) ISC West Northeast School Safety Summit Add your school or organization to the list of those inspired by Antoinette - book her today! BOOK TODAY ANTOINETTE KING, CISSP Physical & Cyber Security Expert BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Antoinette King TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! Antoinette’s book The Digital Citizen's Guide to Cybersecurity: How to Be Safe and Empowered Online is available for purchase on Amazon . SPEAKER Topics Include Safety & Security Digital Safety & Online Threats Bullying & Cyberbullying Prevention Security Physical Security & Risk Assessment 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. Building a Strong Cybersecurity Culture in your District Building a strong cybersecurity culture in your school district is crucial to protecting sensitive data, ensuring compliance, and fostering a security-first mindset among staff, students, and administrators. This session will explore how governance frameworks can establish clear cybersecurity policies, how executive buy-in can drive meaningful change, and how performing gap assessments can identify vulnerabilities in existing practices. By understanding these key elements, school leaders can create a cybersecurity strategy that is proactive, sustainable, and ingrained in daily operations. Differentiating Between Business Continuity, Disaster Recovery, and Incident Response Plans Organizations face a range of disruptions, from cyberattacks to natural disasters, making it crucial to have well-defined response strategies. This session will clarify the distinctions between Business Continuity, Disaster Recovery, and Incident Response plans, highlighting how each contributes to organizational resilience. Attendees will explore the significance of conducting a Business Impact Analysis (BIA) to prioritize recovery efforts, understand the roles and responsibilities of key stakeholders in each plan, and learn how leadership buy-in ensures effective implementation. By the end of the session, participants will gain actionable insights to strengthen preparedness and response frameworks within their organizations. Understanding the Benefits and Risks of Transitioning Your District to Cloud Services and Solutions Transitioning to cloud services and solutions can offer school districts enhanced flexibility, scalability, and cost-efficiency. However, it also introduces new considerations around data security, privacy, and shared responsibilities between cloud providers and users. This session will explore the benefits and risks of moving your school district to the cloud, clarifying critical concepts such as Platform as a Service (PaaS), Software as a Service (SaaS), and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS). Attendees will gain insights into data security obligations, best practices for protecting sensitive student and administrative information, and strategies for ensuring compliance with privacy regulations. Testing, Training, Exercising Your District-wide Cybersecurity Plans A well-developed cybersecurity plan is only as effective as its testing, training, and exercises. School districts must regularly assess their Disaster Recovery (DR), Incident Response (IR), and Business Continuity (BCP) plans to ensure they are practical, comprehensive, and actionable. This session will provide strategies for selecting the right stakeholders, crafting realistic tabletop exercise scenarios, and conducting thorough after-action reviews to refine district-wide cybersecurity preparedness. Attendees will leave with actionable steps to strengthen their cybersecurity plans through structured testing and continuous improvement. Strengthening Cybersecurity in K-12 Education Through Internal Assessments Ensuring the security of sensitive data and technology in K-12 education is more critical than ever. Join us for an enlightening webinar, "Strengthening Cybersecurity in K-12 Education Through Internal Assessments," where we will explore how conducting thorough internal assessments can bolster cybersecurity efforts in educational institutions. This session will provide participants with actionable insights to identify vulnerabilities, address gaps, and implement effective solutions to create a secure learning environment. BOOK NOW Testimonials Review 1 Review 2 Review 3 "Every family that engages online and on social media should have their hands on [Antoinette King's] book. Employers are increasingly tightening their cybersecurity practices and policies, but as more people work and attend classes from home, the home network our families share is now totally interconnected and vulnerable to cyber crimes like phishing, hacking, and ransomware. Why not create the same safe practices we agree to follow at work, for our home? Ms. King writes an approachable, fun, kind, and empathetic way to open conversations with our families on how to protect your most important digital assets." -Susan F. "[Antoinette King's book is] a comprehensive and accessible resource for anyone looking to protect themselves in the digital world. Antoinette does a fantastic job of breaking down complex cybersecurity concepts into easy-to-understand language, making it a perfect read for beginners and experts alike. The practical tips and real-world examples provided throughout the book are incredibly helpful, and the emphasis on personal empowerment in the digital age is truly inspiring. I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to stay safe and secure online – it's a must-read!" Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY Antoinette King, CISSP, PSP, SICC has more than two decades of experience in the security industry, working in integration, education, manufacturing, and consulting. Antoinette founded Credo Cyber Consulting in 2020 with the goal of providing her clients a holistic perspective on security, bridging the gap between the physical and cybersecurity domains focusing on data privacy and protection. Her book, The Digital Citizen’s Guide to Cybersecurity: How to Stay Safe and Empowered Online hit the Amazon Best Seller’s list for all its categories in the first 48 hours of release. Antoinette is a Board-Certified Physical Security Professional (PSP), as well as a certified Data Privacy Protection Specialist (DPPS). She has an associate degree in Criminal Justice, Bachelor of Science in Managing Security Systems, and master’s degree in Cybersecurity Policy and Risk Management. Antoinette has presented on data privacy and cybersecurity in several capacities including webinars and in person engagements. She has also published articles on the topics of cybersecurity, data privacy, creating an insider threat programs, and digital citizenship. Additional awards and praise include: Honoree, 2024 SIA Women in Security Forum Power 100 Honoree, 2023 Top 100 Global Women in Cybersecurity Honoree, 2023 SIA Women in Security Forum Power 100 Winner, 2022 Cyber OSPAs Best Cybersecurity Consultant Winner, ASIS 2022 Karen Marquez Award Winner, SIA Chairman’s Award 2022 Honoree, SIA 2022 Women in Security Forum Power 100 Winner, SIA 2020 Women in Security Forum Scholarship Winner, SIA 2018 RISE Scholarship Book Antoinette King TODAY!

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WHY Book Dr. Gerber FOR YOUR EVENT? WHO Books Dr. Gerber ? BOOK TODAY DR. GREG GERBER Assistant Professor at the New York Institute of Technology, Vancouver BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Dr. Gerber TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! SPEAKER Topics Include Signature PRESENTATIONS Click on the titles to learn more about each signature presentation and fill out the form below to book for your next event. BOOK NOW Review 1 Review 2 Review 3 Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY Book Dr. Gerber TODAY! Testimonials