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

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 for Supporting Trauma-Impacted Students In this training, Dr. Grant will provide an overview of what trauma is, how it impacts the brain, and why different strategies for behavior management are often needed for consistent success. Strategies for supporting regulation and managing common behavioral concerns for this population will be presented. While strategies for more escalated out of classroom management will be covered, more focus will be placed on strategies that can be used in the classroom and around other students with minimized disruptions. Attendees will leave with a better understanding of how and why these students function as they do and with several practical strategies that can be immediately used in the classroom. Learning Objectives Participants will learn at least 2 ways trauma impacts neurology. Participants will what happens when a brain is "triggered". Participants will learn ways to identify through observation what level of stress a student is at Participants will learn at least 2 strategies for managing crisis behaviors. Participants will learn at least 2 strategies for managing non-crisis disruptive behaviors. Participants will learn at least 2 strategies for supporting regulation and preventing disruptive 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 Review 1 Review 2 "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! Testimonials

This session is designed to support educators, student services teams, school mental health professionals, safety personnel, and administrators working to build sustainable, student-centered approaches to prevention, intervention, and support. Digital Dangers & Student Behavior: When Low-Level Concerns Become Safety Risks BACK This session is designed to support educators, student services teams, school mental health professionals, safety personnel, and administrators working to build sustainable, student-centered approaches to prevention, intervention, and support. As the new school year approaches, many school communities are navigating an increasingly complex student support landscape shaped by digital interactions and emerging online risks. Schools today are balancing growing behavioral, mental health, and safety concerns while working within limited time, staffing, and resource capacity. Challenges such as cyberbullying, online exploitation, AI-influenced conflicts, and threats of violence can develop quickly and often emerge through patterns of behavior that are difficult to identify without coordinated systems and processes in place. This webinar will explore how digital environments are influencing student behavior and how multidisciplinary teams can strengthen early identification, triage, and intervention practices to better support students and reduce escalation. Download a free resource developed to support key takeaways from this conversion.

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 Frank DeAngelis, retired principal of Columbine High School, is an internationally recognized leader in leadership, crisis management, and school safety. As principal during the tragic 1999 shooting, he has remained deeply committed to supporting his Columbine Rebels and school communities nationwide. Offering unwavering support from prevention through recovery, DeAngelis emphasizes the core elements of leadership — building strong relationships, fostering support systems, and cultivating resilient school cultures. His firsthand experiences provide unparalleled insights on overcoming adversity, implementing effective safety protocols, and leading through crisis. A recipient of numerous honors, including Colorado High School Principal of the Year and NASRO’s Archie T. Hodge Lifetime Achievement Award, he is a pillar of the school safety community, a highly sought-after speaker, the one to call for organizations ready to prepare for challenges with compassion and courage. WHY Book Frank FOR YOUR EVENT? “Frank was AMAZING! From start to finish, this whole process has been incredible. He was so easy to work with and so accommodating. Our school was laser focused when he was speaking and I can't explain how much our school staff, administration, and students benefitted from his words of wisdom. We are so grateful to have had the opportunity for him to be here. He is an inspiration to all and I feel so lucky to learn from him. Truly an educator that I look up to and admire. He is a gift and I look forward to having him back at SHP in the future.” —Mark Vitale, Assistant Director of Admissions, Seton Hall Preparatory School WHO Books Frank ? Frank’s powerful story and lifelong dedication to creating safer, more supportive schools for students and educators have made him a highly sought-after speaker for a wide range of organizations, including: National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO) Indiana Department of Education The Law Enforcement Against Guns & Violence Conference Seaton Hall Preparatory School Texas A&M International University Great Lakes Association for School Safety Idaho Department of Education Education Service Center Region 3 Salem-Keizer Public Schools Montgomery County Intermediate Unit 23 BOOK TODAY FRANK DEANGELIS Retired Principal of Columbine High School BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Frank TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! SPEAKER Topics Include Culture, Climate & Community Leadership, Law & Policy Recovery & Resilience After Tragedy Turning Pain into Purpose Signature PRESENTATIONS Click on the titles to learn more about each signature presentation and fill out the form below to book for your next event. Leadership Lessons from Columbine and Beyond (Keynote, 1-3 hours) The tragedy at Columbine redefined the nation. Frank DeAngelis tells his story from the events through the aftermath. This presentation reveals the leadership lessons he learned in the focus of an international firestorm. Frank’s honest, straight-forward account provides invaluable insights into managing the after-crisis with students, staff members, community members and never-ending media attention. He shares how he was able to build a community that worked together for his kids: the students at Columbine High School. Panel Discussions and Q&A Sessions Frank offers Q&A sessions following his keynotes or as a separate session. He is also available for panel discussions. As these formats are more organic and highly individualized, Frank is available to discuss and plan for these types of sessions directly with clients. The Road to Resilience 1-2 Hour Keynote Presented as two braided stories, Frand DeAngelis and Michele Gay, Sandy Hook parent, founder and executive director of Safe and Sound Schools, share their transformative roads out of tragedy and into resiliency. They examine critical aspects of resilience along their respective healing journeys 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. BOOK NOW Testimonials Review 1 Review 2 Review 3 Frank DeAngelis is a national treasure who has transformed the school safety conversation world-wide. His honesty and unwavering commitment that those lost in our Columbine tragedy will never be forgotten is reflected in a willingness to share the difficult lessons learned and his own very moving and personal journey. I have worked with Frank for almost a decade during unimaginable crisis events in our District including; the Deer Creek Middle School shooting and the kidnapping and murder of 10-year-old Jessica Ridgeway, as well as several credible threats to Columbine High School. Frank’s genuine compassion and ability to connect with students, parents, educators and first responders is inspirational and a significant reason we have been able to successfully recover and thrive. Frank didn’t just rebuild the climate and culture at Columbine High School, he restored the faith of our entire community. —John McDonald, Executive Director, Security and Emergency Management, Jeffco Public Schools Frank was excellent! Everyone loved the presentation and wanted more. I wish they could have had more time, but the other sessions prevented that. He did stay for the reception and there were several people that talked to him one on one. He is a great presenter dealing with a tough topic such as that. When you have that type of topic but are still able to have the audience laugh, you are very good. We really enjoyed getting to know him even if it was a short time. —Michele Skinner, Coordinator of Education Initiatives, Texas A&M International University Frank DeAngelis is a national treasure who has transformed the school safety conversation world-wide. His honesty and unwavering commitment that those lost in our Columbine tragedy will never be forgotten is reflected in a willingness to share the difficult lessons learned and his own very moving and personal journey. I have worked with Frank for almost a decade during unimaginable crisis events in our District including; the Deer Creek Middle School shooting and the kidnapping and murder of 10-year-old Jessica Ridgeway, as well as several credible threats to Columbine High School. Frank’s genuine compassion and ability to connect with students, parents, educators and first responders is inspirational and a significant reason we have been able to successfully recover and thrive. Frank didn’t just rebuild the climate and culture at Columbine High School, he restored the faith of our entire community. —John McDonald, Executive Director, Security and Emergency Management, Jeffco Public Schools Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY Frank DeAngelis served as an educator for the Jeffco School District in Littleton Colorado, since 1979, becoming the principal in 1996. A national-level speaker, Frank has addressed numerous professional and school audiences on the topic of recovery after a school-based tragedy. He has visited, consulted, and assisted school communities across the country following incidents of violence and tragedy, including Platte Canyon, Chardon, Virginia Tech, and Sandy Hook. Frank received numerous awards and recognitions throughout his lifetime of service as an educator. He was selected as Colorado High Principal of the Year and was one of the three finalists for National Principal of the Year. He recently received the Jefferson Country Lifetime Achievement Award and the Gandhi, King, Ikeda Community Builders Award. He retired in June of 2014 after 35 years at Columbine High School. He is presently serving as a consultant for safety and emergency management for the Jeffco School District in Colorado, and continues to travel nationally and internationally, speaking and consulting. Book Frank TODAY!

The Comprehensive School Safety Framework equips schools with preparedness strategies which address all hazards. Comprehensive School Safety Framework The Comprehensive School Safety Framework equips schools with preparedness strategies which address all hazards. What do we mean when we say comprehensive school safety? Comprehensive school safety refers to preparedness strategies which address all hazards. Schools must consider all areas of school safety relevant to their site and community and remember to include representatives from each stakeholder group when creating a fully developed safety plan. In order for you to be an effective safety leader in your school community, you must understand all the areas encompassing school safety. Rethink school safety by using the comprehensive school safety model to help you assess, plan and develop, and audit safety solutions. Next Item Previous Item

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

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 Review 1 Review 2 "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! Testimonials

The Safe and Sound Institute® presents regional summits, workshops, and trainings that to engage and connect all stakeholders to improve school safety. Safe and Sound Institute® The Safe and Sound Institute® presents regional summits, workshops, and trainings that to engage and connect all stakeholders to improve school safety. The Safe and Sound Institute® presents regional summits, workshops, and trainings with national-level experts in school safety to actively engage and connect all stakeholders in the process of improving school safety. Connecting stakeholders, building common language, and setting the foundation for collaborative work, our summits, workshops, and trainings bring together regional stakeholders for greater impact and the long-lasting relationships required to ensure school safety. Next Item Previous Item

Dr. Lori Mueller is joined by educator sexual abuse survivor and Safe and Sound Speakers Bureau member Michelle Denault to discuss what every school superintendent and K-12 leader needs to know to proactively protect students. Protecting Students from Inappropriate Adult-Student Relationships: What Every School Leader & Educator Needs to Know BACK Dr. Lori Mueller is joined by educator sexual abuse survivor and Safe and Sound Speakers Bureau member Michelle Denault to discuss what every school superintendent and K-12 leader needs to know to proactively protect students. Inappropriate relationships between adults and students in schools are an unfortunate and serious reality, representing one of the greatest threats to students’ sense of safety. In this upcoming webinar, former superintendent Dr. Lori Mueller is joined by educator sexual abuse survivor and Safe and Sound Speakers Bureau member Michelle Denault to discuss: How trusted adults cross boundary lines with children The long-lasting effects of trauma What every school superintendent and K-12 leader needs to know to proactively protect students Learn the warning signs, challenge misconceptions, and discover practical steps to keep students safe. Learn more about Michelle Denault, her powerful story, and how you can book her to speak at your next event: https://www.safeandsoundschools.org/featured-speakers/michelle-denault

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

Dr. Amanda Nickerson is a leading expert in school safety, crisis prevention, and trauma-informed practices. As the director of the Alberti Center for Bullying Abuse Prevention at the University at Buffalo, she brings a research-driven, student-centered approach to creating safe and supportive school environments. As an extensively published author and speaker, she offers actionable strategies for implementing trauma-informed drills, fostering positive school climates, and advantages of social-emotional strengths. Her research- and experience-based expertise makes her an invaluable resource for schools and organizations committed to comprehensive, compassionate safety solutions. WHY Book Dr. Nickerson FOR YOUR EVENT? “The keynote presentation was truly outstanding! Dr. Nickerson delivered an inspiring message which drew the attention of everyone in the audience. It was motivational, extremely well organized, and an exemplar from an educational-teaching perspective .” WHO Books Dr. Nickerson ? With her focus on psychological safety and prevention, Dr. Nickerson is a valued speaker for K-12 audiences seeking evidence-based comprehensive safety planning and mental health guidance. Her presentations offer actionable insights on addressing bullying, trauma, and crisis recovery through methods that promote healing and community strength. BOOK TODAY DR. AMANDA NICKERSON Professor and Director of the Alberti Center for Bullying Abuse Prevention BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Dr. Nickerson TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! SPEAKER Topics Include Mental & Behavioral Health Culture, Climate, & Community Bullying & Cyberbullying Prevention Suicide Prevention & Mental Health Support Identifying & Supporting At-Risk Students Intervention Strategies MTSS (Multi-Tiered Systems of Support) Leader-care/Self-care Behavioral Threat Assessment & Management Emergency Preparedness & Response Signature PRESENTATIONS Click on the titles to learn more about each signature presentation and fill out the form below to book for your next event. PREPaRE Workshop #1 – Comprehensive School Safety Planning: Prevention Through Recovery (3rd Edition) 8-Hour Full-Day Workshop In this newly updated workshop, participants will learn how to establish and sustain comprehensive school safety and crisis prevention and preparedness efforts. With updated research and strategies, this workshop makes a clearer connection between ongoing school safety and crisis preparedness. It also emphasizes the unique needs and functions of school teams and the steps involved in developing these teams, including a model that integrates school personnel and community provider roles. The PREPaRE model builds on existing personnel, resources and programs, and can be adapted to individual school needs and size. Finally, the workshop explores how to prepare for school crises by developing, exercising, and evaluating safety and crisis plans. This workshop is an excellent course for mental health and educational professionals working at all grade levels in your district that help establish a safe school climate and respond to crises. NOTE: The maximum number of participants is 100. There are additional fees of $45 per participant for materials that will be ordered directly from NASP. All materials are electronic, so there are no shipping fees. School Safety: Students First This presentation, offered by several of our speakers and educators, is designed with students in mind. On our website, we offer a complimentary download of our Safe and Sound Youth Council Kit. This guide is designed to help 6th – 12th grade students, their parents, and their advisors take the first steps toward being a proactive part of their school’s safety plan. For those schools and school districts who want to take the extra step, Safe and Sound Schools offers speakers who can assist in guidance and implementation, help launch the program, lead site walk-throughs, and ensure that you have all of the tools you need to institute safe school principles for all students. Each program is customized to the unique needs of that school’s community. Our presenters share their personal stories followed by a powerful call to action directing the youth of our nation to step up for school safety. As leaders and problem-solvers in their own right, our next generation is essential to our mission: safe and sound schools for all. This program is offered by these Safe and Sound speakers: Michele Gay, Alissa Parker, Frank DeAngelis, CJ Huff, Lisa Hamp, and Dr. Amanda Nickerson. PREPaRE Workshop # 2 – Mental Health Crisis Interventions: Responding to an Acute Traumatic Stressor in Schools (3rd Edition) 13-Hour (2 Full Day) Workshop This two-day workshop provides school-based mental health professionals and other school crisis intervention team members with the knowledge necessary to meet the mental health needs of students and staff following a school-associated crisis event. With updated research and crisis intervention strategies, this workshop teaches participants how to prevent and prepare for psychological trauma, reaffirm both the physical health of members of the school community and students’ perceptions that they are safe and secure, evaluate the degree of psychological trauma, respond to the psychological needs of members of the school community, and examine the effectiveness of school crisis intervention and recovery efforts. This workshop is an excellent course for all mental health professionals in your district who provide mental health crisis intervention services. This educator is also available to present the PREPaRE ToT (Training of Trainers) Workshops that correspond to the PREPaRE workshops described above. NOTE: The maximum number of participants is 45. There are additional fees of $55 per participant for materials that will be ordered directly from NASP. All materials are electronic, so there are no shipping fees. Bullying Prevention and Intervention Dr. Nickerson presents the myriad issues and presentations of bullying in today’s schools and explores their impact upon students’ learning and sense of safety in school today. She shares practical solutions, interventions, and strategies, and resources for identifying and combating these challenges to promote a safe school climate. Promoting Social-Emotional Strengths through Assessment and Intervention 3-hour program As part of a balanced, comprehensive understanding of children’s mental health, it is important to not only examine the problems that interfere with functioning, but also to assess and build upon social-emotional strengths. Social-emotional skills create a sense of accomplishment, contribute to satisfying relationships, enhance the ability to cope with stress, and promote social and academic development. Dr. Nickerson presents advantages of focusing on social-emotional strengths, an overview of strength-based assessment measures, and approaches to developing these strengths at the individual, small group, and school-wide levels. BOOK NOW Review 1 Review 2 “Dr. Nickerson is such a knowledgeable and competent professional. I really admire her teaching philosophy and how ‘real’ she is. I think every student should be required to take this course with her and ONLY HER.” “I learned more than I expected. I enjoyed Dr. Nickerson and the schedule of the day.” Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY Amanda Nickerson is a professor and director of the Alberti Center for Bullying Abuse Prevention at the University at Buffalo, the State University of New York. Dr. Nickerson’s research focuses on school crisis prevention and intervention, with a particular focus on bullying and other forms of violence and abuse. She also has expertise on positive school climate, parent and peer relationships, and promoting social-emotional strengths of youth. She has published more than 130 journal articles and book chapters, written/edited 5 books, and conducted over 350 professional presentations. Dr. Nickerson is a licensed psychologist, a nationally certified school psychologist, and a fellow of the American Psychological Association. She is Coordinator of Research for the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) School Safety and Crisis Prevention Committee and an author of the PREPaRE School Crisis Prevention and Intervention training curriculum. Book Dr. Nickerson TODAY! Testimonials