Featured AVAILABLE TO BOOK EXCLUSIVELY THROUGH THE SAFE AND SOUND SPEAKERS BUREAU Dr. C.J. Huff is a recognized leader in school safety, crisis management, and community resilience. With extensive experience as a superintendent, he guided the Joplin, Missouri, school district through the aftermath of the devastating 2011 tornado, demonstrating exceptional leadership in recovery and rebuilding. Dr. Huff’s approach to school safety emphasizes the importance of strong community partnerships, proactive preparedness, and fostering a culture of resilience. As a speaker, he offers practical insights into disaster response, recovery strategies, and creating supportive environments that prioritize the well-being of students. His expertise makes him an invaluable resource for schools and organizations seeking to strengthen their safety protocols and community engagement efforts. WHY Book Dr. Huff FOR YOUR EVENT? “ The clear and concise articulation of real-world leadership in a time of terrible crisis . Dr. Huff pulled off some tremendous successes with his team, but there was a personal and professional cost at times. I appreciated his willingness to not only share those successes (and articulate the need to briefly acknowledge them regularly), but to also acknowledge the price he paid to achieve them. He also carved out a path to avoid many of those personal costs, or at least address them moving forward in a crisis.” —Brett Garland, Director, South Dakota State School Safety Program WHO Books Dr. Huff ? Dr. Huff’s expertise and compassion make him a sought-after speaker for a wide range of organizations. He is especially recognized for his leadership in response and recovery following natural disasters, guiding communities through challenges with resilience and strength. Organizations he has worked with include: Mountain State Educational Services Cooperative Missouri State Teachers Association, Southwest Region South Dakota State School Safety Program Pierce County Emergency Management Region 18 ESC BOOK TODAY DR. CJ HUFF Educator and Child Advocate BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Dr. Huff TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! SPEAKER Topics Include Culture, Climate & Community Leadership, Law & Policy Operations & Emergency Management Leader-care/Self-care 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. Community Engagement 2.0: A Whole-Community Approach to Educating Our Children 1-hour Keynote In this session, Dr. Huff will share an inspirational message of hope and provide proven strategies to engage your school community's "time, talent and treasure" to: Create integrated systems of community support to meet any child's needs within 24 hours Grow circles of influence to build community leadership and resource capacity Give kids a chance to give back to their community in an intentional effort to grow a generation of children who clearly understand the ideal of service above self. Our noble purpose as educators is not about test scores and should not be impacted by the politics of our time. Our noble purpose begins with good people coming together, finding common ground in our children, and working together to create new opportunities for children today that didn't exist yesterday. (Audience: All) *This presentation can also be a 3-hour interactive workshop. Crisis Happens: Lessons Learned the Hard Way 1-hour Keynote In this session, Dr. Huff highlights lessons learned that are applicable to not just natural disasters, but also day-to-day crisis that often have devastating impacts on organizations. His key points highlight leadership examples and provide clear strategies around lessons learned regarding internal/external communications, development of pre-need relationships as well as effective leadership behaviors and leader self-care that are applicable to any challenge. This keynote is designed for today’s modern leader interested in creating a better prepared and more resilient leadership team and organization. From Tragedy to Triumph: The Joplin Schools Story May 22, 2011—it was graduation day for over 400 seniors at Joplin High School. A day of great celebration. But Mother Nature had other plans. At 5:41pm a deadly EF-5 tornado touched down on the west side of Joplin destroying everything in its path. In times of crisis, real leaders step up. In this keynote Dr. Huff will provide a detailed accounting of the response and recovery of Joplin Schools following the costliest tornado in US History. His emotional and inspirational message highlights the importance of community-wide leadership, teamwork and a consistent focus on what’s best for children - no matter what. If I Had a Dime: Hindsight to Foresight for Today’s Educators If I had a dime for every time I said, ‘You gotta take care of yourself before you can take care of others!’ I would have been able to rebuild our entire community after our disaster.” A central part of the presentation highlights the importance of "Career Sustaining Behaviors" (Self-Care) and the critical role educators play in the long-term recovery of students and their peers by becoming a model of self-care for others to follow. His "people first" message offers opportunities for self-reflection, practical strategies to improve staff morale and retention, tips on communication strategies, and thoughtful lessons learned the hard way balanced with empathy, humor, and inspiration to provide educators the clarity needed to overcome adversity. BOOK NOW Testimonials Review 1 Review 2 Review 3 After all, a lot of you could've spent your senior year scattered throughout different schools, far from home. But Dr. Huff asked everyone to pitch in so that school started on time, right here in Joplin. He understood the power of this community and the power of place. —President Barack Obama With unwavering courage and unshakable resolve, C.J. has led the Joplin Schools forward. He has been an inspiration to us all. I’m proud to have worked closely in partnership with C.J., and I’m even more proud to call him my friend. —Former Missouri Governor Jay Nixon After all, a lot of you could've spent your senior year scattered throughout different schools, far from home. But Dr. Huff asked everyone to pitch in so that school started on time, right here in Joplin. He understood the power of this community and the power of place. —President Barack Obama Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY Dr. C.J Huff is an educator with over 20 years of experience as a classroom teacher, building principal, and superintendent of schools. Originally a farmer from McCune, KS, Dr. Huff earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from Pittsburg State University, his Master's and Specialist degree in Education from Missouri State University, and his Doctorate in Education with a focus in Educational Leadership from the University of Arkansas in 2003. On May 22, 2011, at 5:41 PM, the costliest tornado in US history hit Joplin, Missouri. This EF-5 tornado with winds in excess of 200 mph devastated the community, killing 161 community members, including 7 students and a staff member, in just 32 minutes. As a school system, 10 of the 19 schools in his district were damaged or destroyed. Dr. Huff was responsible for successfully leading his district of 1,100 employees and 7,700 students through the community response and recovery effort that followed. His declaration that "We will start school on time" is credited with being a key factor that drew the community of Joplin together just days after the tornado and provided a positive light for the country to rally around in the midst of such tragedy and destruction. As a result of his leadership, Dr. Huff's resolve was recognized by leaders across the nation. Retiring from Joplin Schools in 2015, Dr. Huff serves as a subject matter expert to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the U.S. Department of Education, supporting response and recovery efforts following some of the nation's most devastating natural disasters in recent history. This includes extensive response and recovery support following Hurricanes Harvey, Maria, and Michael, California wildfires (Paradise, CA), and the 2023 tornadoes in both Arkansas and Mississippi. Book Dr. Huff TODAY!

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

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

Dr. Scott Poland is a respected leader in youth suicide prevention, crisis response and mental health, with decades of experience as a school psychologist, professor, and trusted subject matter expert. Dr. Poland’s internationally recognized work is rooted in the belief that safety and well-being go hand in hand, and he is known for his dynamic and practical presentations, which include many real-life experiences on the front line of crisis prevention, intervention, and postvention. Having authored eight books on the subjects, Dr. Poland has also testified before Congress on several occasions and has led national school crisis teams. With this deep well of practical expertise and an unwavering commitment to youth mental health, he equips audiences with actionable strategies to support students in crisis, foster resilience, and strengthen the systems that keep schools safe and responsive. Dr. Poland's latest piece offers invaluable insight into how schools, parents, and students can navigate the harmful effects of social media on student mental health. Download the e-book to learn more! WHY Book Dr. Poland FOR YOUR EVENT? “Dr. Poland is a master presenter and has provided many trainings for Academica school mental health professionals on a wide range of topics including bullying prevention, youth mental health, school safety, self-care, and suicide prevention. Each training received rave reviews. I was a former student of his and introduced him as my hero! My favorite of the many trainings he did for us included powerful role plays of screening for suicide risk, developing a safety plan for the at-risk student, parent notification and referral for community-based services. My staff talked about the role plays for months.” Liliana Salazar, National Director for Special Education and School Support, Acadmica Schools WHO Books Dr. Poland ? Scott’s speaking style is compassionate, informative, and grounded in decades of frontline experience supporting schools through crisis. His natural ability to connect with educators, school staff, parents, caregivers, students and other key stakeholders comes through meaningful stories, expert insights, and a deep understanding of the emotional and practical challenges school communities face. Recent audiences include: School Safety Advocacy Council Texas School Safety Center Missouri School Safety Center Taipei American School Houston Independent School District West Springfield Public Schools Lincoln Intermediate Unit 12 Eastern York School District Hillel Day School of Metropolitan Detroit Lincoln Medical Education Partnership Add your school or organization to the list of those inspired by Dr. Poland - book him today! BOOK TODAY DR. SCOTT POLAND Professor/Licensed Psychologist and Expert on School Violence BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Dr. Poland TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! SPEAKER Topics Include Mental & Behavioral Health Culture, Climate, & Community Bullying & Cyberbullying Prevention Suicide Prevention & Mental Health Support Identifying & Supporting At-Risk Students Intervention Strategies Leader-care/Self-care Behavioral Threat Assessment & Management Trauma-Informed Practices Childhood Trauma & Adverse Experiences Inclusive School Safety Practices Special Education Considerations Signature PRESENTATIONS Click on the titles to learn more about each signature presentation and fill out the form below to book for your next event. Responding and Recovering from Crisis in Schools: Lessons learned from the front lines to help students and schools in the aftermath of tragedy 1-3 hours This module will help school personnel, and especially administrators, develop and enhance their ability to respond to critical incidents and provide students and staff with the assistance and support needed. In addition, the complicated issue of memorialization and what is appropriate at school will be outlined. Developmental issues for children and their understanding of death will also be shared. In addition, strategies will be shared to help build student resiliency and supporting the school staff will be emphasized. The Challenge of Parenting and Safeguarding Children in a Challenging and Technological World 1-2 hours Dr. Poland has over 40 years of experiences working with Pre-K through 12 school staff, students, and their parents. The World Health Organization has outlined critical factors for safeguarding children and building resiliency and success. These factors and many helpful tips for raising children in today’s challenging world will be shared with the audience. Participants will learn the importance of staying involved in their children’s’ lives and how to identify at-risk behaviors and how to set limits for technology and recognize that technology is privilege not a right and that excessive screen time has many negative consequences for children. The U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory on the impact of social media for youth will be shared. Emphasis will be placed on the need for parents to model balancing technology in their own lives and to limit heavy social media usage for their child. Parents will be encouraged to collaborate with schools and community agencies if they observe at-risk behaviors in their child. Self-care strategies for children and families will be outlined as well as the keys to success for children. Recognizing and Responding to the Impact of Screen Time on Youth Mental Health The U.S. Surgeon General sent out an advisory on -screen time that cited the damaging effects of excessive screen time on youth mental health. There is considerable national concern about the rising rates of anxiety and depression for youth and considerable research is emphasizing it correlates with the fact that most youth have smart phones. This presentation will provide practical information for personnel in all professional settings as well as in parenting their own children to better recognize at-risk youth and to learn strategies to reduce screen time for youth and improve their mental health. National survey data will be shared to help participants understand the amount of screen time that youth spend daily. The warning signs of anxiety, depression and suicide will be shared to help participants better recognize at-risk youth. Practical suggestions will be provided to conduct discussions with parents and other adults on balancing their own screen time to serve as a model for youth. Participants will learn strategies to discuss screen time with young people to help them to be more mindful of their screen time usage and to set goals for limiting screen time usage. School Safety and Threat Assessment in Schools 3-6 hours School personnel such as administrators and counselors are increasingly faced with complex situations where students have made violent threats towards others or even the entire school. Dr. Scott Poland has been involved in several legal cases where school personnel including counselors were sued over their management of a threat of violence and he will share lessons learned from these cases. This workshop will provide step by step guidelines in a case format to help school personnel classify threats and to take appropriate investigative actions to reduce the likelihood of violence. Dr. Scott Poland has served on national crisis teams such as Red Lake, Minnesota and Littleton, and Colorado and has responded to school shooting as far away as Brazil. He has many practical ideas about how to make schools safer and the important role in prevention for students. The importance of working collaboratively with local authorities will be stressed. Participants will learn practical strategies and tips that they can implement in their school system to manage threats of violence. Youth Suicide: Contemporary Issues in Prevention/Intervention and Postvention for Schools 2-6 hours The incidence of youth suicide requires that schools increase suicide prevention efforts and that they be prepared to respond if a suicide occurs to reduce suicide contagion. This presentation will help administrators and school support personnel increase their understanding of the incidence of suicide and the most common factors in youth suicide. Participants will learn effective strategies to prevent youth suicide and lessons from the aftermath of numerous suicides. The presentation will highlight key components from the suicide prevention toolkits that Dr. Poland developed for Texas, Maryland, Montana and Florida that emphasized best practices and provides many tools for schools to utilize. Key components are training all staff in the warning signs of suicide and developing referral procedures to school mental health professionals. How to access suicide risk at school, the importance of notifying parents, obtaining community services and developing re-entry procedures for a suicidal student returning from hospitalization will be shared. Role plays of screening a student for suicide risk and parent notification will be included in this training. Dr. Poland has served as an expert witness in many lawsuits against schools after a student suicide and will highlight the lessons for prevention from those cases. Bullying and Schools: Keys to prevention and intervention Non-Suicidal Self Injury: Critical Issues 2 hours School personnel and community agencies are increasingly faced with referrals of students who are engaging in self-injury, most referred to as NSSI. This module will provide practical guidelines about how to detect this behavior and intervene to support young people and will answer the question of whether students engaging in self-injury are suicidal. Dr. Poland will outline the many factors involved in this complex behavior and provide sample guidelines for schools, parents, and community. School roles in intervention, legal issues, and strategies to help students reduce their self-injurious behavior will be included in training. Educators Making the Difference for Students 1-3 hours The mental health needs of students because of the pandemic, the incidence of bullying, school violence, suicide, social media and trauma in general present a challenge for all educators. The U.S. Surgeon General released a recent report, Protecting th Mental Health of Our Youth. The recommendations for schools, parents, communities, and students from that report will be shared. Self-care has never been mor important for school staff and students and a model of self-care will be shared. Research has emphasized the need for all students to feel a connection to school and it is very important for each student to have a significant relationship with one or more adults at school. The warning signs of suicide and homicide will be outlined. Dr. Poland has focused on school violence prevention and youth suicide prevention for over 40 years and will share practical prevention information and lessons learned from interventions he led and from legal cases. Participants will learn the protective factors for youth outlined by the World Health Organization and the factors that were identified by the Carnegie Foundation that are essential for student success and resiliency. BOOK NOW Testimonials Review 1 Review 2 Review 3 “We have had an amazing few days with Dr. Poland virtually. It has been so beneficial to have our community members hear from him. He helped us talk about a very important and sensitive topic with our students, parents, and faculty, and brought newfound awareness to the role of parents and school staff in caring for each other and for our students.” - Dr. Grace C. DODGE, 程上, Interim Head of School, Taipei American School “Scott’s presentation was exactly what our counselor group was seeking. He took his time answering all their questions and quickly followed the presentation with sending the resources he promised. We very much look forward to hosting him again in June with our administrator group.” - Lisa Menges, Director of Nonpublic School Services, Lincoln Intermediate Unit 12 Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY Dr. Scott Poland is a Professor at the College of Psychology and is Director of the Suicide and Violence Prevention Office at Nova Southeastern University. Dr. Poland is a licensed psychologist internationally recognized as an expert on youth suicide, self-injury, school violence, school safety, threat assessment and school crisis. He has authored or co-authored six books—including Suicide in Schools, published in 2015, and Lessons Learned from School Shootings, published in 2021—along with many chapters and articles on these subjects. He co-authored the Suicide Safer Schools Plan for the state of Texas, Montana, and Florida and directed psychological services for a large Texas school system for 24 years. The Florida STEPS (School Toolkit for Educators to Prevent Suicide) guide was shared with every school district in Florida in 2021. Dr. Poland is a past President of the National Association of School Psychologists, and past Prevention Division Director of the American Association of Suicidology. He has been an expert witness in numerous legal cases concerning suicide in schools and their communities. Dr. Poland is dedicated to prevention and has testified about the mental health needs of children before the U.S. Congress on four occasions. He is a founding member of the National Emergency Assistance Team and has personally assisted school communities following school shootings, acts of terrorism, natural disasters and numerous suicide clusters. Dr. Poland is known for his dynamic and practical presentations, which include many reallife experiences on the front line of crisis prevention, intervention, and postvention. While Dr. Poland is usually brought in to speak to administrators, faculty, staff, and parents, he also offers programs geared toward students on the following topics: School Safety, School Violence, Suicide Prevention, Bullying, Depression, Responsibility, and Decision Making & Future Success Factors. Dr. Poland has been the recipient of numerous awards, including the Houston Wage Peace Award and the Parkland Helping the Community Heal Award. Book Dr. Poland TODAY!

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

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

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Featured AVAILABLE TO BOOK EXCLUSIVELY THROUGH THE SAFE AND SOUND SPEAKERS BUREAU On Monday, March 21, 2005, Missy’s life was forever changed when a former student shot his way into her classroom at Red Lake High School, where he killed a co-worker and five of her students before taking his own life. Since that day more than 20 years ago, Missy has been on a meaningful journey from victim to survivor, finding her voice and purpose as an advocate and speaker. Having witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of school violence on her students and community, she now dedicates her work to helping schools build safer, more supportive educational environments. In her presentations, Dodds emphasizes the importance of comprehensive safety strategies, including mental health resources, emergency preparedness, and community engagement. Her unique perspective as both a survivor and a champion for change makes her an impactful speaker, offering valuable insights on how to create proactive, resilient school cultures that prioritize student safety and foster bright futures. WHY Book Missy FOR YOUR EVENT? “Thankful for Missy Dodds’ willingness to share her traumatic experience at the hands of a targeted mass shooter and her journey of healing in its aftermath. Her message was well received by the audience and her personal experience clearly had an impact on the attendees on the importance of behavioral threat assessment in the prevention of future mass attacks.” —Nicole Tuomi Jones, Ph.D., LP, CTM, Psychologist, Behavioral Threat Assessment Unit, North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation WHO Books Missy ? Missy Dodds’ unique blend of raw honesty and deep compassion make her a popular speaker among a wide range of audiences and organizations, including: National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO) Indiana Department of Education North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation Texas State University - Texas School Safety Center Texas Department of Public Safety Arkansas Safe Schools Association Delta Kappa Gamma West40 Intermediate Service Center (ISC) Vivent Health BOOK TODAY MISSY DODDS Survivor of the Red Lake High School Shooting BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Missy TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! SPEAKER Topics Include Safety & Security Culture, Climate & Community Recovery & Resilience After Trauma Turning Pain into Purpose Lessons Learned from Tragedy Signature PRESENTATIONS Click on the titles to learn more about each signature presentation and fill out the form below to book for your next event. Choosing to Survive: Lessons from Red Lake 1-2 Hour Keynote In this session, Missy shares both her personal journey of navigating life after a school shooting and her quest to understand how a school shooting can even happen. Through the pain, guilt and hard decisions, she is open and honest about her struggles, successes and how she now defines acceptance. Missy also shares how she found her “missing piece”—the answer to what she believes could have prevented the events on March 21, 2005. Missy’s presentation is suited for all educators, school-based law enforcement, school-based mental health providers, and community stakeholders. BOOK NOW Testimonials Review 1 Review 2 Review 3 Ms. Dodds was engaging, entertaining, and well-received by the audience. She made valid points that were useful for the threat assessment training, and shared her own story to highlight that targeted mass attacks have impacts on survivors as well. She also did a good job of stressing the value of threat assessment as a tool to prevent violence. —Earl Sam, Assistant Special Agent in Charge, North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation Missy provides a heart-wrenching and heart-warming presentation regarding her experience with a school shooting. She reminds us that safer schools are the responsibility of the entire community - the entire community, not just educators and parents. We are challenged to do something and build those safe and healthy connections between our students, educators, and community at large. —Nicole Lentz, Manager of Pharmacy Academics, Vivent Health Thank you again for the opportunity, as Missy shared with us such an impactful story. Her resilience, courage and willingness to forgive inspires me. As I help navigate myself, my children, and family through our life journeys, Missy reminded me: when someone is dealing with a mental health crisis that ‘no one is at fault.’ Thank you, Missy, for being an advocate for safer school, and I wish you joy each and every day! — Ruth Rivera Crawford, Executive Administrative Assistant, Vivent Health Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY On Monday, March 21, 2005, Missy Dodds’ life was forever changed. A former student shot his way into her classroom at Red Lake High School in Northwest Minnesota. He killed a teacher and five of her students before taking his own life. Since that day, Missy has worked hard on her healing journey. This journey has taken her down many roads: learning to live with PTSD, the difference between being a victim and being a survivor and learning to allow her own children to experience and love school as much as she did. These paths have led Missy to becoming a school safety and mental health advocate. While Missy no longer teaches high school math, she is passionate about sharing what she has learned to help schools, parents and communities understand the importance of a comprehensive approach to school safety and recovery. Missy’s court case, Dodds vs Red Lake School District Workman’s Comp, helped to change the law in Minnesota to include PTSD as a viable workman’s comp claim. In 2015, Missy shared her story of recovery in the award-winning documentary, Red Lake, produced by Billy Luther. In 2018, Missy joined Safe and Sound Schools as a National Parent Ambassador and now serves as a regular speaker and outreach and training specialist for the national school safety non-profit. In 2022, Missy received the Outstanding Service Award from the Mu Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma for her work in school safety. She also serves as a parent representative for her local school district’s Emergency Operation Planning Committee and on her local Boys and Girls Club’s Program and Safety Committee. Born and raised in Arkansas, she lives in Northwest Minnesota with her husband and three children. Missy holds a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from the University of Central Arkansas and a Master of Science in Mathematics Education from Bemidji State University. Book Missy TODAY!

WHY Book Dave FOR YOUR EVENT? WHO Books Dave ? BOOK TODAY DAVE OKADA President, Association of Threat Assessment Professionals (ATAP) BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Dave TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! SPEAKER Topics Include Signature PRESENTATIONS Click on the titles to learn more about each signature presentation and fill out the form below to book for your next event. BOOK NOW Testimonials Review 1 Review 2 Review 3 Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY Book Dave TODAY!

Featured AVAILABLE TO BOOK EXCLUSIVELY THROUGH THE SAFE AND SOUND SPEAKERS BUREAU Meg Soultz believes in a hands-on approach to school safety. As a dedicated advocate and expert, she brings a unique blend of experience in emergency medical response and law enforcement to help schools prepare for real-world crises. Her approach centers on building confidence through training, fostering strong school-law enforcement partnerships, and ensuring that safety tools are practical, intuitive, and ready when needed most. As co-founder of the Rescue in Color, a color-coded bleeding control system, Meg champions accessible solutions that empower everyone—not just first responders—to save lives. Through her presentations, she helps school communities strengthen their emergency readiness, improve response coordination, and create safer environments for students and staff alike. WHY Book Meg FOR YOUR EVENT? "I love when Meg comes and talks because not only having been a first responder has seen it, she's law enforcement, which means she's walked in the boots. Having that first hand experience teaching you makes all the difference." — Missy Dodds, Survivor of the Red Lake High School Shooting WHO Books Meg ? Meg Soultz connects with audiences through practical training, relatable scenarios, and a focus on building the confidence and skills needed to act in critical moments. Her presentations cover topics such as trauma response in schools, bleeding control preparedness, collaboration between schools and first responders, and creating safety protocols that are accessible and actionable for all school staff. Recent audiences Meg has spoken to include: Northeast School Safety Conference Gangs, Guns, and School Violence Prevention Summit (Vancouver, BC) Midwest School Safety Conference Danville PD, Indiana Indiana School Resource Officer Association Wasatch Peak Academy, Utah Add your school or organization to the list of those inspired by Meg Soultz - book her today! BOOK TODAY OFFICER MEG SOULTZ Co-Founder Rescue in Color Public Safety and Emergency Medical Expert BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Meg TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! SPEAKER Topics Include Medical (Crisis/Emergency Responder, School Nurse) Health & Wellness Emergency Preparedness & Response Stop the Bleed Keynote Presentation Professional Development Training & Workshops 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 Testimonials Review 1 Review 2 Review 3 "As a nurse, I've also previously experienced Stop the Bleed training, and these really kind of go hand in hand nicely, but I think what I appreciate the most about Rescue in Color, is it's really simple training that doesn't take hours and hours." -Annie Lumbar Bendson, Director of Health Services Minnetonka Schools "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 Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY Meg began her career in public safety as an EMT while completing a bachelor’s degree in biology at DePauw University in Greencastle, IN. During that time, she was also competing as a collegiate athlete for DePauw’s softball team and was recently inducted into the Athletics Hall of Fame for her accomplishments. She continued her formal education at the IUPUI Purdue School of Science with a master’s degree in biology. Meg has worked as a paramedic at both Putnam County Operation Life and Indianapolis EMS. At present, Meg has 18 years of EMS experience in rural, urban, and suburban environments. Meg also served as a full time EMS Educator for the Eskenazi Hospital/IU School of Medicine associate’s degree program in Paramedic Science. During her time at Indianapolis EMS, she was selected as a tactical medica for Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department’s SWAT Team and Bomb Squad. After finding a passion for law enforcement while serving as a tactical medic, Meg transitioned to full time law enforcement at the Carmel Police Department in Carmel, IN. During her career at Carmel, Meg was selected as a member of their SWAT team and served on the entry element with a specialization in less lethal and gas munitions. She was a certified instructor through the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy both as a generalist and physical tactics instructor with formal training in the ASP Tactical Weapons program and the Krav Maga Force Training Division. She spent 5 years in the operations division before being promoted to patrol sergeant. She was later assigned to the School Resource Unit where she developed her passion for school safety. Meg made a geographic move to the Minneapolis area where she continued her law enforcement career and expanded her repertoire to include training as a hostage and crisis negotiator. Meg has a unique perspective having served in roles as both a paramedic and police officer and understands the challenges of teaching medical concepts to civilian first responders. Book Meg TODAY!

Join our expert panel with Michele Gay in discussion about this dangerous trend. We’ll cover how communities can restore safety and return to learning, and share best practices, insights, and key resources. From the Classroom to the Boardroom: Addressing the Increase in School Violence (Webinar) BACK Join our expert panel with Michele Gay in discussion about this dangerous trend. We’ll cover how communities can restore safety and return to learning, and share best practices, insights, and key resources. Safe and Sound Schools in partnership with Door Security & Safety Foundation Join us in a round table discussion where experts, parents, and school leaders share perspectives on school security and safety issues in our schools. Between fears of active shooters and bullying, budget concerns, building codes and local politics, these issues impact all of us. Though emotional and challenging, it’s important to learn the facts and work with experts towards immediate and long term solutions for securing school doors. Hear the perspective of a parent, school administrator, school psychologist, door security and safety professional, and a code official who will share insights, best practices and key resources to help us all successfully work together.

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