Doug Hunt serves as the Associate Director of Bright Futures, bringing a powerful blend of lived experience, entrepreneurial leadership, and unwavering hope to his work. A survivor of a traumatic childhood marked by physical and psychological abuse, Doug’s journey is defined by perseverance and a refusal to give up—even in his darkest moments. After enduring profound personal and professional loss following the 2011 Joplin tornado, he launched a consulting practice focused on business coaching and personal development and earning national recognition for his message of resilience. Rooted in gratitude, attitude, and purpose, Doug’s presentations inspire audiences to transform adversity into action. With a pay-it-forward mindset, he equips students, leaders, and communities with practical tools to build hope, cultivate resilience, and pursue lives of meaning and impact. WHY Book Doug FOR YOUR EVENT? “Doug has a vast amount of experience and knowledge that he utilizes to serve those he works with. Doug's ability to speak and give powerful motivational presentations is amazing. I would highly recommend Doug’s presentations.” -Monica Simpson, MLS, MHFA, QPR. Labette Center for Mental Health Services WHO Books Doug ? Doug Hunt connects with audiences through authentic storytelling and practical, relationship-centered strategies that emphasize connection as the foundation of safety and well-being. Drawing on real-world examples and the Bright Futures framework, Doug explores how intentional relationships, inclusive practices, and cross-sector partnerships help identify concerns earlier, reduce isolation, and strengthen student resilience. Attendees leave with actionable tools to deepen engagement, activate community support, and create sustainable systems that promote prevention, trust, and brighter futures for all students. Recent audiences Doug has spoken to include: Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG) Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Young Professionals Network, Leadership Summit National Association of Health Care Assistants Missouri Southern State University (MOSO CAPS) Crowder College Joplin, Neosho, Carthage Area Chambers of Commerce Add your school or organization to the list of those inspired by Doug - book him today! BOOK TODAY DOUG HUNT Childhood Trauma Survivor, Associate Director of Bright Futures Mission Advancement BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Doug TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! SPEAKER Topics Include Culture, Climate, and Community Identifying & Supporting At-Risk Students Suicide Prevention & Mental Health Support Childhood Trauma & Adverse Experiences Lessons Learned from Tragedy 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. Safety Starts with Connection: Building a Culture Where Every Student Belongs True school safety begins with relationships, trust, and a shared commitment to belonging. This session explores how strong connections between students, educators, families, and community partners create the foundation for prevention and long-term safety. Participants will examine how everyday interactions, inclusive practices, and intentional relationship-building can identify concerns earlier and strengthen student well-being. Real-world examples demonstrate how connected school communities reduce isolation, improve climate, and foster resilience. Attendees will leave with practical strategies to deepen engagement, strengthen partnerships, and build environments where every student feels seen, supported, and valued. From Basic Needs to Bright Futures: Mobilizing Communities to Support Students No school can meet every student need alone — meaningful safety and success require community collaboration. This session highlights the Bright Futures framework as a proven model for connecting schools, businesses, nonprofits, and local leaders around shared responsibility for student well-being. Participants will learn how communities identify real-time needs, mobilize resources, and create systems of support that remove barriers to learning. The presentation showcases how targeted partnerships build trust, strengthen relationships, and generate lasting impact for students and families. Attendees will walk away inspired and equipped to activate their own communities in support of brighter futures for every child. BOOK NOW Testimonials Review 1 Review 2 Review 3 “Doug is an amazing human being. Passionate about helping the world. His caring and warm personality is a beacon for those who search for peace and gratitude. I will forever be grateful for his mentorship.” -Jimmy Burgess, Executive Director, Heartland Canines for Veterans Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY Doug Hunt currently serves as the Associate Director of Bright Futures – Mission Advancement for Safe and Sound Schools. He is a survivor of a traumatic childhood that included both physical and psychological abuse. Choosing never to give up—despite coming dangerously close—Doug went on to excel in high school speech and debate, attend college, and launch an eleven-year career in broadcast television. During that time, he was elected to the Joplin City Council at just 25 years old. At age 33, Doug founded his own advertising agency, employing a team of ten. He and his team generously donated their services to help brand and launch Bright Futures in Joplin, Missouri. However, following the economic impact of the May 2011 EF-5 tornado in Joplin—which claimed 161 lives, including three of Doug’s close friends—he was forced to close the business and file for bankruptcy. Rising from this adversity, Doug started Doug Hunt Consulting, offering business coaching and personal/professional development services. He was later featured as a keynote speaker at the national Business Network International (BNI) conference. His talk, “Closing Your Gap – Gratitude, Attitude & Passion,” gained national recognition after author Peter Hobler, who was in the audience, featured Doug in his book Courage to Find the Fire Within. In 1995, Doug was named one of the Ten Most Outstanding Young Missourians. He has received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Advertising Federation and was honored as Small Business of the Year by the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce. Most recently, he served for five years as the Director of Entrepreneurship for the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce before taking on his current role with Safe and Sound Schools. Doug’s message and presentation are rooted in hope, perseverance, and practical steps for harnessing the scientific power of gratitude. With a “pay-it-forward” mindset, Doug frequently speaks to young students about overcoming darkness and discovering a life filled with purpose and hope. Book Doug TODAY!

News releases from Safe and Sound Schools. Founded by parents who lost children at Sandy Hook Elementary School, Safe and Sound is a national non-profit school safety advocacy and resource center that provides research based tools and support for crisis prevention, response, and recovery, helping to protect every school, every student, every day. Safe & Sound NEWS RELEASE MEDIA INQUIRIES: We look forward to working with representatives from all types of media outlets. For media inquiries, multimedia content, or to be directed to a school safety expert, please contact Kim Vann at kim@safeandsoundschools.org . OUR MISSION: Founded by parents who lost children at Sandy Hook Elementary School, Safe and Sound is a national non-profit school safety advocacy and resource center that provides research based tools and support for crisis prevention, response, and recovery, helping to protect every school, every student, every day. LET'S COLLABORATE: We look forward to working with members of the media interested school safety. For media inquiries, to schedule and interview, or to be directed to a school safety expert, please contact Kim Vann at kim@safeandsoundschools.org . MEDIA ASSETS LATEST PRESS RELEASE MEDIA COVERAGE

Episode Guide: Episode guides provide descriptions, links to resources and references for The Sound Off podcast The Sound Off EPISODE GUIDES

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

Doug Hunt serves as the Associate Director of Bright Futures, bringing a powerful blend of lived experience, entrepreneurial leadership, and unwavering hope to his work. A survivor of a traumatic childhood marked by physical and psychological abuse, Doug’s journey is defined by perseverance and a refusal to give up—even in his darkest moments. After enduring profound personal and professional loss following the 2011 Joplin tornado, he launched a consulting practice focused on business coaching and personal development and earning national recognition for his message of resilience. Rooted in gratitude, attitude, and purpose, Doug’s presentations inspire audiences to transform adversity into action. With a pay-it-forward mindset, he equips students, leaders, and communities with practical tools to build hope, cultivate resilience, and pursue lives of meaning and impact. WHY Book Doug FOR YOUR EVENT? “Doug has a vast amount of experience and knowledge that he utilizes to serve those he works with. Doug's ability to speak and give powerful motivational presentations is amazing. I would highly recommend Doug’s presentations.” -Monica Simpson, MLS, MHFA, QPR. Labette Center for Mental Health Services WHO Books Doug ? Doug Hunt connects with audiences through authentic storytelling and practical, relationship-centered strategies that emphasize connection as the foundation of safety and well-being. Drawing on real-world examples and the Bright Futures framework, Doug explores how intentional relationships, inclusive practices, and cross-sector partnerships help identify concerns earlier, reduce isolation, and strengthen student resilience. Attendees leave with actionable tools to deepen engagement, activate community support, and create sustainable systems that promote prevention, trust, and brighter futures for all students. Recent audiences Doug has spoken to include: Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG) Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Young Professionals Network, Leadership Summit National Association of Health Care Assistants Missouri Southern State University (MOSO CAPS) Crowder College Joplin, Neosho, Carthage Area Chambers of Commerce Add your school or organization to the list of those inspired by Doug - book him today! BOOK TODAY DOUG HUNT Childhood Trauma Survivor, Associate Director of Bright Futures Mission Advancement BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Doug TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! SPEAKER Topics Include Culture, Climate, and Community Identifying & Supporting At-Risk Students Suicide Prevention & Mental Health Support Childhood Trauma & Adverse Experiences Lessons Learned from Tragedy 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. Safety Starts with Connection: Building a Culture Where Every Student Belongs True school safety begins with relationships, trust, and a shared commitment to belonging. This session explores how strong connections between students, educators, families, and community partners create the foundation for prevention and long-term safety. Participants will examine how everyday interactions, inclusive practices, and intentional relationship-building can identify concerns earlier and strengthen student well-being. Real-world examples demonstrate how connected school communities reduce isolation, improve climate, and foster resilience. Attendees will leave with practical strategies to deepen engagement, strengthen partnerships, and build environments where every student feels seen, supported, and valued. From Basic Needs to Bright Futures: Mobilizing Communities to Support Students No school can meet every student need alone — meaningful safety and success require community collaboration. This session highlights the Bright Futures framework as a proven model for connecting schools, businesses, nonprofits, and local leaders around shared responsibility for student well-being. Participants will learn how communities identify real-time needs, mobilize resources, and create systems of support that remove barriers to learning. The presentation showcases how targeted partnerships build trust, strengthen relationships, and generate lasting impact for students and families. Attendees will walk away inspired and equipped to activate their own communities in support of brighter futures for every child. BOOK NOW Review 1 Review 2 “Doug is an amazing human being. Passionate about helping the world. His caring and warm personality is a beacon for those who search for peace and gratitude. I will forever be grateful for his mentorship.” -Jimmy Burgess, Executive Director, Heartland Canines for Veterans Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY Doug Hunt currently serves as the Associate Director of Bright Futures – Mission Advancement for Safe and Sound Schools. He is a survivor of a traumatic childhood that included both physical and psychological abuse. Choosing never to give up—despite coming dangerously close—Doug went on to excel in high school speech and debate, attend college, and launch an eleven-year career in broadcast television. During that time, he was elected to the Joplin City Council at just 25 years old. At age 33, Doug founded his own advertising agency, employing a team of ten. He and his team generously donated their services to help brand and launch Bright Futures in Joplin, Missouri. However, following the economic impact of the May 2011 EF-5 tornado in Joplin—which claimed 161 lives, including three of Doug’s close friends—he was forced to close the business and file for bankruptcy. Rising from this adversity, Doug started Doug Hunt Consulting, offering business coaching and personal/professional development services. He was later featured as a keynote speaker at the national Business Network International (BNI) conference. His talk, “Closing Your Gap – Gratitude, Attitude & Passion,” gained national recognition after author Peter Hobler, who was in the audience, featured Doug in his book Courage to Find the Fire Within. In 1995, Doug was named one of the Ten Most Outstanding Young Missourians. He has received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Advertising Federation and was honored as Small Business of the Year by the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce. Most recently, he served for five years as the Director of Entrepreneurship for the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce before taking on his current role with Safe and Sound Schools. Doug’s message and presentation are rooted in hope, perseverance, and practical steps for harnessing the scientific power of gratitude. With a “pay-it-forward” mindset, Doug frequently speaks to young students about overcoming darkness and discovering a life filled with purpose and hope. Book Doug TODAY! Testimonials

Safe and Sound Schools story. We are Sandy Hook parents, educators, and community members—all inspired by our children and educators who perished on December 14, 2012. We chose to raise our families in Newtown, CT, a small town where crime is low and values are strong. We chose Sandy Hook Elementary School, a place of love, learning, and acceptance. When our children boarded their school buses and their teachers left for work on December 14th, we never imagined that it might be for the last time WHO WE ARE We are Sandy Hook parents, educators, and community members—all inspired by our children and educators who perished on December 14, 2012. We chose to raise our families in Newtown, CT, a small town where crime is low and values are strong. We chose Sandy Hook Elementary School, a place of love, learning, and acceptance. When our children boarded their school buses and their teachers left for work on December 14th, we never imagined that it might be for the last time. We all felt safe in our peaceful town and in our high-ranking schools. We learned, too painfully, that we were not. Gaining entry to our locked school–and access to our beloved children and teachers–was as simple as breaking a glass window. The measures, plans, and procedures we relied upon failed us, tragically. Despite our sorrow, and though we come from a variety of backgrounds, we are united in our mission: To better protect our schools. To provide safe schools, secure schools, for our children and educators. And to help others do the same in their communities. Joined by school communities across the country and supported by national school safety experts, mental health, fire, and law enforcement professionals, our community has grown and our resolve has strengthened. Together we can make a difference. Together we can make our schools Safe and Sound. ABOUT THE FOUNDERS Michele Gay Founder & Executive Director Mother, educator, and co-founder of Safe and Sound Schools®, Michele Gay chose to take action after losing her daughter Josephine Grace on December 14, 2012 in the Sandy Hook School tragedy. Since that time, Michele 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, Michele earned a 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 advocate, Michele speaks to 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, Michele 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. Visionary, author, and co-author of Safe and Sound’s programs and materials, Michele has served as a stakeholder voice in national legislative discussions. Through these works, Michele 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, Michele is uniquely positioned to help others prepare for, prevent, respond to, and recover from tragedies of their own. Michele remains inspired by Josephine, every day. She dedicates herself to honoring Josephine’s memory through this work to ensure that every school, every child, and every community is truly safe and sound. Alissa Parker Alissa is the mother of Emilie Parker, one of the 20 children who died tragically in the Sandy Hook School Shootings on December 14, 2012. In the wake of the tragedy, Alissa was moved to engage parents in securing the safety of their children’s school by becoming an active member of the Newtown Public Schools’ Safety Committee. Now, Alissa is a nationally-recognized advocate for school safety, speaking to school communities, educational leadership events, and top news sources across the United States. Alissa graduated from Weber State University in her hometown of Ogden, Utah. She is a Co-founder of Safe and Sound Schools, and also co-founded The Emilie Parker Art Connection, which gives to art programs for kids across the country. She is the author of the book, "An Unseen Angel", a memoir of faith, hope and healing. Alissa brings a powerful perspective and passion to Safe and Sound Schools. She is devoted to creating a legacy of safety for our nation’s children in honor of her beloved Emilie. Founder Michele & Alissa OUR STORY Founded by Michele Gay, mother of Josephine Grace Gay, and Alissa Parker, mother of Emilie Parker, Safe and Sound Schools is a national nonprofit safety advocacy and resource center that provides research-based tools and support for crisis-prevention, response, and recovery. Safe and Sound Schools is committed to protecting every school and every student, every day. SEE OUR STORY

Featured AVAILABLE TO BOOK EXCLUSIVELY THROUGH THE SAFE AND SOUND SPEAKERS BUREAU Michelle Denault is an advocate and educator who brings a survivor’s strength and a teacher’s heart to the critical conversation on child safety and sexual abuse prevention. As the founder of Voices Carry, she developed “Grooming 101 – A Predator’s Playbook,” a training that empowers both adults and students to recognize and respond to the subtle signs of grooming behavior. Michelle’s work is grounded in the belief that awareness is the first step toward protection—and that every member of a school community plays a role in keeping children safe. She challenges schools to move beyond awareness campaigns and toward a culture of vigilance, empathy, and shared responsibility. With a blend of personal experience and professional insight, Michelle equips audiences with the knowledge and confidence to act before harm can occur. WHY Book Michelle FOR YOUR EVENT? “Michelle Denault has a story to share that can empower students and equip leaders. Her presentations strike the right balance of personal details and more generalized information to illustrate the process and impact of grooming and sexual abuse. I highly recommend her program to those who want to keep students safe and empower them to speak out if harm has already occurred.” -Faith Colson, Survivor, Advocate, and Namesake of Faith’s Law WHO Books Michelle ? Michelle connects with audiences through personal storytelling, eye-opening insights, and a passionate call to action that empowers and inspires. Her presentations focus on topics such as child sexual abuse prevention, grooming awareness, creating safe school environments, and equipping both students and adults with the tools to recognize and interrupt predatory behavior. Recent audiences Michelle has spoken to include: National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO) Gangs, Guns, and School Violence Prevention Summit (Vancouver, BC) Michigan State Police Macon-Piatt Regional Office of Education Hoogland Center for the Arts Add your school or organization to the list of those inspired by Michelle - book her today! BOOK TODAY MICHELLE DENAULT Survivor of Educator Sexual Abuse BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Michelle TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! SPEAKER Topics Include Mental & Behavioral Health Culture, Climate, & Community Leadership, Law, & Policy Grooming & Exploitation Sexual Abuse Prevention Identifying & Supporting At-Risk Students Trauma-Informed Practices Childhood Trauma & Adverse Experiences 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. Grooming 101 1 Hour In this powerful presentation, Michelle sheds light on the insidious grooming process. Michelle shares her journey while dissecting each step of grooming. Through her dual lens as both a survivor and an administrator’s wife, she reveals how predators exploit a child’s natural desire for love, manipulating them into unwittingly consenting to their violation. Michelle also addresses the tendency to blame victims rather than hold perpetrators accountable. Her insights highlight the critical need for training and dispelling societal misconceptions so we can better protect our children. These failures have far-reaching consequences, affecting individuals, entire communities, and institutions. It Is Your Business 3-hour (½ day PD) with “Grooming 101” included The "It Is Your Business" program builds upon the foundational "Grooming 101 - A Predator's Playbook," offering a deeper exploration into the complexities of grooming and sexual abuse. This expanded session covers key risk factors, signs to watch for, and how societal misconceptions and generalizations often distort our understanding of these behaviors. The program also highlights the long-term impacts on victims, aiming to educate adults on the nuances of grooming and equip them with the knowledge needed for prevention and intervention. This initiative empowers participants to better protect the well-being of children and young adults by providing a comprehensive understanding of predatory behaviors and the grooming process. The session also includes a brief overview of mandated reporter laws and, for institutions in Illinois, details on Faith’s Law. Grooming 101 (Extended) 2 Hours This session includes all the aspects of the Basic 1 hour with the addition of an overview of societal misconceptions about sexual violence, supported by real-life cases and court documents. The extended 2-hour session goes further into exploring the long-term emotional and psychological impact on survivors and what it’s like to live with the effects of sexual violence for a lifetime. It Is Your Business (Extended) Full day (9:00 to 3:30 with 1-hour lunch and breaks built into each hour) This program is identical to the three hours with the exception that it includes extended training on Mandated Reporting, Faith’s Law, and Title IX regulations in K-12 schools Grooming 101 (Student) The student program does not include the same statistics as the adult program. The student program also speaks to students on their level and where they are in their age group. For example: “How many of you have heard your parents say: ‘Just wait till you grow up! You think you have it bad now.’” I try to show them that we, as adults in society, often forget how hard it is to be a kid. In that forgetfulness, we neglect to share with them or understand how vulnerable they are to “grooming” behaviors and abuse. Healthy Relationships and Internet Safety BOOK NOW Review 1 Review 2 “Michelle’s presentation was a highlight of our conference. Her energy, passion, and strength kept the audience on the edge of their seats, and when it was over they wanted more. Michelle speaks up for all the survivors, but especially those who cannot speak out themselves.” -Jeremy Flood, Board President, Illinois School Resource Officers Administration “I am still having staff approach me about how wonderful Michelle’s presentation was. I have never, in my 12 years of education, experienced such a moving presentation.” -Principal Kashia Cook, Christopher School Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY Michelle Denault, owner and founder of “Voices Carry, LLC”, is a survivor of Educator Sexual Abuse and the creator of the training “Grooming 101 - A Predator’s Playbook”. In 2015, after decades of believing she had been in a “love relationship” with a trusted teacher, a moment in time shifted her perspective and opened her eyes to the truth that she hadn't been loved but instead preyed on and abused. Since that time, Michelle has been speaking her truth, advocating for change, and in a fight in the justice system to bring accountability to her abuser and his enablers. Michelle teaches “Grooming 101” in schools and at conferences to train adults on how to recognize the signs a child is being groomed and to teach students how to recognize they or their peers may be being groomed. Michelle is married to Mike Denault, Superintendent of the Waltonville School District, and has two boys, Jonny and Jacob Forbes, and two stepdaughters, Emersyn and Addysen. Book Michelle TODAY! Testimonials

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

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 Review 1 Review 2 Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY Book Dave TODAY! Testimonials

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. Leading in Crisis: The Joplin Story In this keynote, Dr. C.J. Huff provides a boots-on-the-ground CEO perspective on the challenges of leading a large organization through the hours, days, weeks, months, and years following an unthinkable tragedy. With a “people-first” approach, C.J. provides leaders with a practical approach to engage internal and external stakeholders, communicate vision, and chart a path forward that inspires and encourages others to follow. Attendees frequently comment on his humility and the common-sense actions leaders can take to stabilize an organization during incredibly challenging times. If I Had a Dime 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. Relationships Matter In this session, Dr. Huff provides participants with a clear-eyed understanding of the importance of pre-need relationships to “carry the day” when crisis strikes. The relationships with internal and external stakeholders can make or break the ability of an organization to respond decisively to unexpected events that distract an organization from its noble purpose. Dr. Huff provides communication and leadership strategies to keep your organization moving forward...no matter what. 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!

Natalie Hammond is a survivor of the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting and dedicated advocate for school safety. As Lead Teacher in the building on December 14th, 2012, Natalie is known for her deeply personal and insightful perspective on school safety and crisis response. Emphasizing the importance of preparedness, emotional resilience, and fostering a supportive, safety-first school culture, she shares her story and provides practical guidance on how schools can better prepare for, respond to, and recover from crises. Natalie’s firsthand experience and continued dedication to K-12 education make her an invaluable resource for schools and organizations committed to creating safer, more supportive environments for students and staff. WHY Book Natalie FOR YOUR EVENT? “It was fantastic. Natalie was very accommodating and is a wonderful educator. She told her story in a way that inspired others and offered suggestions and guidance on how to improve our safety plans. I would love to have her back to speak to our entire school district.” —Michael Lewis, Director of Student Services, Halifax County Public Schools WHO Books Natalie ? Natalie’s compelling presence and authentic voice make her a standout speaker in the field of school safety. Known for her thoughtful delivery and powerful storytelling, she brings a rare blend of lived experience and practical insight to every audience. Frequently invited to keynote conferences and lead professional trainings, Natalie equips educators and leaders with the tools to foster preparedness, resilience, and a culture of care. She is a trusted choice for schools and organizations committed to meaningful, lasting change in school safety and crisis response. Recent audiences and conferences include: Halifax County Public Schools Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services Texas State University Texas Region 3 Education Service Center (ESC) Lake County Regional Office of Education Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office Jessup University Add your school or organization to the list of those inspired by Natalie Hammond – book her today! BOOK TODAY NATALIE HAMMOND Elementary Principal and Sandy Hook School Shooting Survivor BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Natalie TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! SPEAKER Topics Include Culture, Climate & Community Leadership, Law & Policy Leader-care/Self-care Violence Prevention Strategies 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. Resiliency in the Aftermath 45-90 Minute Keynote up to Half-Day Workshop Natalie taught third grade at Sandy Hook Elementary for thirteen years before becoming the Lead Teacher in the building. In a morning meeting on December 14, 2012, she heard alarming sounds outside of the main office. She, along with the Principal and School Psychologist, confronted the unknown. Although wounded multiple times during the attack, Natalie survived her injuries. She now serves as Principal in a PreK-4 elementary school in Connecticut. Since the tragedy, she works with groups around the country to discuss resiliency in the face of adversity and the importance of communication and collaboration when developing safety plans. BOOK NOW Review 1 Review 2 "Natalie was beyond wonderful, both to work with and in regard to her presentation. Thank you for your help in facilitating her being there." —Shellie Evers, Center for School & Campus Safety Supervisor, Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services “The presentation was extremely well done. I have received very positive feedback from the faculty and staff. Thank you for helping us to coordinate everything. She was outstanding! The content and presentation pacing were excellent.” —Brigette Matson, DuBois Area School District Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY Natalie Hammond taught third grade at Sandy Hook Elementary for thirteen years before becoming the Lead Teacher in the building. In a morning meeting on December 14, 2012, she heard alarming sounds outside of the main office. She, along with the Principal and School Psychologist, confronted the unknown. Although wounded multiple times during the attack, Natalie survived her injuries. She now serves as Principal in a K-4 elementary school in Connecticut. Since the tragedy, she works with groups around the country to discuss resiliency in the face of adversity, the importance of communication and collaboration when developing safety plans, and the necessity for social-emotional learning to be embedded into our daily practice as educators. Book Natalie TODAY! Testimonials

Featured AVAILABLE TO BOOK EXCLUSIVELY THROUGH THE SAFE AND SOUND SPEAKERS BUREAU Benjamin Fernandez, MS. Ed, is a trusted voice in school mental and behavioral health, crisis response, and student well-being. With an extensive, highly decorated and decades-long career in school psychology in large school districts, he brings a deep understanding of how to support students and staff before, during, and after emergencies. At Safe and Sound Schools, he helps lead national conversations on integrating mental and behavioral health into school safety frameworks. Ben’s presentations are grounded in real-world experience and provide actionable strategies for building trauma-informed, psychologically safe school environments. His ability to connect with educators, administrators, and mental health professionals makes him a powerful advocate and speaker for any school or organization committed to comprehensive school safety. WHY Book Ben FOR YOUR EVENT? “Benjamin Fernandez has been an asset to the Virginia Department of Education. He has presented for the past several years at two of our annual conferences for 300+ school personal, which are attended by school psychologists, school counselors, school social workers, school nurses, and school administrators. He tailors his presentations to meet the needs of the audience, and his sessions are always well attended and well received. Participants come away with practical strategies that they can immediately implement when they return to their schools and/or policies that they can advocate for in their school divisions. Ben is engaging in his presentations, has a wealth of knowledge to share, and is pleasant to work with. He has been a partner with the VDOE to promote comprehensive suicide prevention. He is a member of the Governor’s Children’s Safety Cabinet and was a contributor to our recently adopted Suicide Prevention Guidelines for Virginia Public Schools. I would wholeheartedly recommend Ben Fernandez as a presenter.” -Martha Montgomery, Ed.S., School Psychology Specialist, Virginia Department of Education WHO Books Ben ? Benjamin Fernandez’s expertise in school mental health and crisis response makes him a highly sought-after speaker for schools and organizations across the US and Canada. He is especially recognized for his work in helping communities prepare for, respond to, and recover from traumatic events with a focus on psychological safety and resilience. Recent audiences include: National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) Virginia Department of Education Northwestern Georgia School Psychologists Consortium Deaf School Safety Task Force Gangs, Guns and School Violence Prevention Summit (Vancouver, BC) Midwest School Safety Summit Texas Education Service Centers Add your school or organization to the list of those inspired by Benjamin - book him today! BOOK TODAY BEN FERNANDEZ Lead School Psychologist Northern Virginia School System BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Ben TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! Perspectives on School Crisis Response: Reflections from the Field , co-authored by Ben Fernandez, is available at Barnes & Noble and Amazon . SPEAKER Topics Include Mental & Behavioral Health Health & Wellness Culture, Climate, & Community Crisis Leadership 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 Staying Safe Best Practices for Drills Emergency Preparedness & Response Trauma-Informed Practices Childhood Trauma & Adverse Experiences Inclusive School Safety Practices Signature PRESENTATIONS Click on the titles to learn more about each signature presentation and fill out the form below to book for your next event. PREPaRE Workshop 1, Third Edition, Comprehensive School Safety Planning: Prevention Through Recovery In this 1-day workshop participants will learn how to establish and sustain comprehensive school safety efforts that attend to both physical and psychological safety. The workshop addresses critical components needed to develop, exercise, and evaluate safety and crisis teams and plans and conduct building vulnerability assessments. The model also integrates school personnel and community provider roles in providing school-based crisis preparedness and response activities. Additional topics addressed also include media/social media, communication, reunification, students with special needs, culture, and memorials. After this workshop, participants will be better prepared to improve their school’s climate, student resilience, and crisis response capabilities of school personnel. With updated research and strategies, this workshop makes a clear connection between ongoing crisis prevention, mitigation, protection, response, and recovery. PREPaRE Workshop 1, Training of Trainers, Third Edition, Comprehensive School Safety Planning: Prevention Through Recovery This 1.5-day workshop provides participants with the information and practice needed to become a trainer of PREPaRE Workshop 1: Comprehensive School Safety Planning: Prevention Through Recovery. Included in this workshop a one-hour online module addressing logistics of workshop delivery and a 10-hour in-person workshop (1.5 days) addressing how to present the workshop content (with a special emphasis on a standardized delivery). This ToT workshop includes a mandatory pre-test (requiring a 100% pass score), preworkshop activities, interactive online access during the workshop, and a post-test (requiring a 100% pass score). From this session, participants will be provided with the information and practice needed to independently offer the core workshop. All participants receive workshop presentation materials and a certificate of completion. PREPaRE Workshop 2, Third Edition, Mental Health Crisis Interventions: Responding to an Acute Traumatic Stressor in Schools This 2-day workshop develops the knowledge and skill required to provide immediate mental health crisis interventions to the students, staff, and school community members who have been simultaneously exposed to an acute traumatic stressor. The knowledge and skill developed within this session also help to build a bridge to the psychotherapeutic and trauma-informed mental health response sometimes required to address challenges associated with trauma exposure. This workshop is an excellent course for all mental health professionals in your district who provide mental health crisis intervention services. PREPaRE Workshop 2, Training of Trainers, Third Edition, Mental Health Crisis Interventions: Responding to an Acute Traumatic Stressor in Schools This 2-day workshop provides participants with the information and practice needed to become a trainer of PREPaRE Workshop 2: Mental Health Crisis Interventions: Responding to an Acute Traumatic Stressor in Schools. Included in this workshop is a one-hour online module addressing the logistics of workshop delivery and a 13-hour in-person workshop (2 days) addressing how to present the workshop content (with a special emphasis on a standardized delivery). This ToT workshop includes a mandatory pre-test (requiring a 100% pass score), preworkshop activities, interactive online access during the workshop, and a post-test (requiring a 100% pass score). From this session, participants will be provided with the information and practice needed to independently offer the core workshop. All participants receive workshop presentation materials and a certificate of completion. Pathways for Violence Prevention This session equips educators and school staff with actionable strategies to prevent school violence. Participants will explore a Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) framework, learning to implement universal, targeted, and intensive interventions. Through practical application, attendees will: Establish a culture of care within their school community. Learn effective methods for assessing and managing active threats. Gain insights into modules covering crucial topics such as suicide prevention, grief support, emotional awareness, positive behavior supports, threat assessment, bullying intervention, and trauma-informed practices. This program provides a comprehensive approach to fostering student growth, wellness, and safety, ultimately creating a more secure and supportive school environment. Suicide Prevention and Intervention Postvention Responding to Suicide This workshop provides evidence an informed approach for responding to and managing a suicide death within a school community. Participants will gain an understanding of key terms, statistics, and the unique factors surrounding suicide, including contagion, bereavement, stigma, and developmental and cultural differences. The session will then delve into practical strategies for school-based suicide postvention encompassing: Triage, crisis team readiness and experience, effective communication with staff, students, community, and families, and implementing appropriate interventions using the PREPaRE model. Ongoing triage, monitoring students of concern, and supporting school-based teams in the weeks following the incident. Addressing long-term considerations, including anniversaries and other potentially triggering events. Developing self-care plans for individuals, teams, and school staff to mitigate the impact of trauma. This workshop will equip participants with the knowledge and tools necessary to effectively support their school community through the challenging process of suicide postvention. Student Mental Health and School Safety This presentation explores the link between student mental health and school safety. The discussion begins with examining the national landscape of child and adolescent mental health, highlighting pre-pandemic trends and the evolving challenges post-pandemic. Then we discuss common mental health challenges seen in schools, including youth suicide, substance use, and the impact of trauma/ACEs, and analyze how untreated mental health issues affect academic performance, social interactions, and long-term student success. The presentation emphasizes the World Health Organization's definition of mental health and its alignment with educational goals, positioning schools as vital access points for youth mental health support. Next, we explore the essential components of a safe and supportive school environment, including integrated learning and student supports (MTSS), access to mental health services, balanced physical and psychological safety, and positive discipline practices. Finally, we'll delve into practical strategies for promoting mental wellness within schools. This includes identifying key teams, establishing clear goals, utilizing relevant data sources, and implementing MTSS frameworks across Tier 1, 2, and 3 interventions. Through reflection and discussion, participants will gain insights into their school's specific needs and develop actionable steps to foster a mentally healthy and safe learning environment. Crisis Leadership: Integration of the What and the How Effective school crisis leadership requires both a clear understanding of crisis response frameworks and the ability to lead with confidence in complex, high-stakes situations. This session explores the integration of the PREPaRE model with National Preparedness Leadership Initiative’s Metaleadership concept, providing school crisis leaders with a structured approach to what they need to do and how they can lead effectively during a crisis. Participants will examine key components of the PREPaRE model, focusing on evidence-based strategies for crisis prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery. These will be aligned with Metaleadership’s principles, which emphasize leading down (within teams), up (to leadership), and across (to community partners) to build coordination, trust, and adaptive decision-making in crisis situations. A Practitioner's Approach to Evaluating Effectiveness of Crisis Response This presentation focuses on the critical yet often overlooked practice of examining the effectiveness of crisis response, emphasizing its role in data collection and analysis for performance improvement, efficiency, and better service to students and staff. Utilizing the PREPaRE model as a guide, participants will delve into the importance of After Action Reviews (AARs) as a powerful tool for organizational change. AARs, when conducted effectively, provide valuable learning opportunities by comparing expected outcomes with actual results, allowing for adjustments to organizational structures, practices and procedures. This presentation explores the key elements of an AAR, highlighting its purpose as a fact-finding exercise to assess response, intervention, and effectiveness. Despite the infrequent nature of crisis events, AARs are essential for maintaining and improving crisis team performance, informing training, and creating a repository of lessons learned for broader sharing through regular reports and staff communications. By embracing AARs as a constructive feedback mechanism, participants will be able to enhance their crisis response capabilities and continuously improve procedures and strategies. BOOK NOW Review 1 Review 2 "I’ve had the pleasure of working with Ben Fernandez since 2008. With more than 20 years of clinical experience as a school psychologist, Mr. Fernandez has particular interest and expertise in the areas of school crisis prevention and intervention as well as suicide prevention, intervention, and postvention. His work has been instrumental to Loudoun County Public Schools—with individual students and families, school buildings and administrators, as well as systems wide—particularly through his leadership and coordination of division wide crisis response teams. Having a national perspective on these and other topics that are urgent to school psychologists and other educators, Mr. Fernandez has been called on to testify on Capitol Hill and train school systems in NASP’s PREPaRE curriculum. I highly recommend and endorse Mr. Fernandez for what he can offer you and your professional organizations." - Charles Barrett, Ph.D., Loudoun County Public Schools "Ben Fernandez delivered an outstanding presentation to school psychologists on crisis intervention, mental health, and school safety, drawing from his extensive professional experience in emergency response and student counseling. His engaging and knowledgeable approach kept the audience captivated as he shared real-world strategies for handling crises effectively. Mr. Fernandez also facilitated insightful small-group discussions, encouraging participation and practical problem-solving among attendees. His expertise and ability to communicate complex issues in a clear, actionable manner made his session both informative and impactful, leaving school psychologists better equipped to support students in challenging situations." - Amy Diprima, Ph.D. Floyd County Schools Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY Benjamin S. Fernandez, MS. Ed, completed his graduate studies in School Psychology at Bucknell University (Lewisburg, PA) and has worked as a school psychologist in Pennsylvania and Virginia with over 28 years of experience as a practitioner. Currently, he serves as the Director of Mental and Behavioral Health Programs for Safe and Sounds Schools. He previously held the position of crisis intervention specialist in Fairfax County Public Schools, providing leadership and the coordination of crisis intervention services, and response consultation after acute traumatic events. As a lead school psychologist and coordinator in Loudoun County Public Schools, he provided a broad array of psychological and school-based mental health services including assessment, suicide screenings, threat assessments of students and nonstudents, consultation, counseling, prevention, and intervention as well as serving as a crisis team leader. Further, he has conducted presentations on suicide prevention for families as well as helping to establish the collection and review of suicide screening data to enhance processes and identify areas of further prevention and intervention. Additionally, he is a Lead PREPaRE Trainer and has contributed to presentations, articles, books, and webinars related to youth suicide, PREPaRE, school mental health, school safety and crisis intervention on the local, state, and national levels. He has testified before the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions, the Federal Commission on School Safety, the Congressional School Safety Caucus, and served as a member of the Governor of Virginia’s Children’s Cabinet on Student Safety.  Mr. Fernandez contributed to the Virginia Department of Education’s Suicide Prevention Guidelines.  In 2010, he was named School Psychologist of the Year by the Virginia Academy of School Psychologists and in 2012, he was named School Psychologist of the Year by the National Association of School Psychologists. In 2015 and 2018, Benjamin received the NASP Presidential Award and in 2021 received the National Association of School Psychologists Crisis Management and Grief Support in Schools Interest Group Award for Excellence for significant contributions to the field of school safety and crisis intervention. Book Ben TODAY! Testimonials