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  • DR. MELISSA REEVES | Safe and Sound

    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 Testimonials Review 1 Review 2 Review 3 “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!

  • About | Safe and Sound Schools | United States

    Founded by parents who lost children at Sandy Hook, Safe and Sound Schools is a national non-profit school 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. We are Sandy Hook parents, educators, and community members—all inspired by our children and educators who perished on December 14, 2012. Together can make a difference. Together we can make our schools Safe and Sound. OUR STORY READ MORE Our mission is to support school crisis prevention, response, and recovery, and to protect every school and every student, every day. We have always — and only — focused on school safety. OUR MISSION READ MORE Learn about our founders and meet our team, staff, and board. We welcome the opportunity to serve you. OUR TEAM READ MORE These organizations, associations, and businesses have donated time, talents, expertise, and/or financial support toward our shared mission of Safe and Sound Schools®. OUR PARTNERS READ MORE Learn more about our nationally recognized panel of speakers. OUR SPEAKERS SPEAKERS LIST If you have questions, we have answers. Browse through our top frequently asked questions, and always feel free to contact us anytime. FAQ READ MORE Safe & Sound ABOUT US Founded by parents who lost children at Sandy Hook, Safe and Sound Schools is a national non-profit school 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

  • Parents for Safer Schools | Safe and Sound Schools | United States

    Parents for Safer Schools is a program designed to help parents and caregivers become school safety advocates and leaders of positive change in their community. The program provides supplemental resources designed to help educate and inspire parents and caregivers to advocate with authority and credibility, and lead school safety initiatives in their communities. Parents for Safer Schools is a program designed to help parents and caregivers become school safety advocates and leaders of positive change in their community. The program provides supplemental resources designed to help educate and inspire parents and caregivers to advocate with authority and credibility, and lead school safety initiatives in their communities. Parents for Safer Schools Program Guide: A step-by-step guide for actionable and organized school safety activities. Learn how to become a local school safety volunteer and advocate. DOWNLOAD THE GUIDE Parents for SAFER SCHOOLS

  • MICHELE GAY | Safe and Sound

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

  • LISA HAMP | Safe and Sound

    Featured AVAILABLE TO BOOK EXCLUSIVELY THROUGH THE SAFE AND SOUND SPEAKERS BUREAU Lisa Hamp is dedicated to sharing her survival story as a powerful reminder of the ripple effects of school violence, including untreated PTSD. She inspires audiences with powerful lessons learned since surviving the Virginia Tech shooting on April 16, 2007. Through her survivor’s perspective on response, recovery, and resilience, her message is clear: no one survives a school shooting or act of mass tragic violence without scars. By sharing her story with others who have experienced trauma and the first responders who always answer these calls, she seeks to let them know: you are not alone. WHY Book Lisa FOR YOUR EVENT? “Lisa Hamp provides a moving and personal perspective on surviving a mass casualty incident. Her story is a candid, poignant, and honest reflection on trauma, survival, and resiliency. Her experience emphasizes the importance of recognizing trauma and victimization in all its forms, as well as honoring the experiences of ALL victims and survivors, including those whose wounds may not be the most obvious.” -Gene Deisinger, Ph.D., Managing Partner, SIGMA Threat Management Associate, Deputy Chief of Police & Director, Threat Management Services (Retired), Virginia Tech WHO Books Lisa ? Lisa Hamp’s lived experience and survivor advocacy make her a trusted voice in school safety conversations nationwide. She is dedicated to helping first responders, counselors, teachers, students, and many others to improve school safety and best practices for tragedy recovery, including the importance of supporting students and staff long-term. Recent audiences include: Koshka Foundation for Safer Schools Pittsylvania County Sheriff's Office Lane Fire Authority Add your school or organization to the list of those inspired by Lisa - book her today! BOOK TODAY LISA HAMP Survivor of the Virginia Tech Shooting BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Lisa TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! SPEAKER Topics Include Safety & Security Culture, Climate, & Community 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. Lessons from a Virginia Tech Survivor (Keynote, 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on requests) Lisa Hamp shares her personal story during the April 16, 2007, Virginia Tech shooting, as well as her recovery afterwards. She describes how her class built a barricade to prevent the shooter from entering their classroom, as well as her struggle to return to a “normal’ life during the weeks, months, and years that followed. She explains what made her eventually seek counseling after eight years and a variety of hard, but powerful lessons she has learned since that tragic day. Through her raw and emotional presentation, she provides a survivor’s perspective on experiencing and recovering from a school shooting. Panel Discussions and Q & A Sessions Lisa offers Q and A sessions following her presentation or as a separate session. She is also available for panel discussions. As these formats are more organic and highly individualized, Lisa prefers to discuss and plan for these types of sessions directly with clients. 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 the 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. BOOK NOW Review 1 Review 2 “Typically, after a tragic event the focus of recovery efforts begins with the injured or deceased. Lisa, through her experiences from the Virginia Tech incident, brought forward the impact these tragic events have on the non-injured survivors. As a community leader, her presentation helped me understand the importance of assistance for all survivors of tragic incidents.” - Chris Heppel, Assistant Chief, Lane Fire Authority “Lisa was well-prepared and well-received by the attendees. She gave us a personal and insightful look into her life after an extremely terrible event. Lisa’s life-changing experiences—not only in the days immediately following the shooting, but in the years to follow—drove home very important indicators on physical and mental wellness. As I watched, the audience all seemed intently focused on Lisa. We thank Lisa for educating us should we have an incident in our community.” -Mike Taylor, Sheriff, Pittsylvania County Sheriff's Office Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY Lisa Hamp is a survivor of the Virginia Tech shooting in Norris Hall that took place on April 16, 2007. With her classmates, she built a barricade to prevent the shooter from entering their classroom. Lisa suffered from untreated PTSD for many years after the Virginia Tech incident. In 2015, she sought counseling for an eating disorder. She had suffocated her feelings that were caused by the trauma and developed an eating disorder to cope. Since 2015, she continues to heal. She has begun sharing her story with law enforcement, EMS, school counselors, social workers, and mental health professionals. She believes that you don’t have to be shot to be injured and is passionate about helping those who have experienced trauma, as well as first responders. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from Virginia Tech, a Master’s degree in Operations Research from George Mason University, and a Master’s degree in Economics from John Hopkins University. Book Lisa TODAY! Testimonials

  • FRANK DEANGELIS | Safe and Sound

    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!

  • Subscribe | Safe and Sound Schools | United States

    Tell us your communication preferences so we can send you tailored updates, timely resources, training opportunities, event notifications, and more! We look forward to staying in touch and working together to keep our school communities safe and sound Join the Safe and Sound Community Stay Informed, Stay Connected Tell us your communication preferences so we can send you the most relevant tools, event information, and updates—tailored to your role and priorities. Once you're part of our community, you'll get access to the resources, training, and support you need to help protect your school community and strengthen your safety efforts. We’re proud to stand with you in creating safe and sound schools!

  • Fundraiser Ideas | Safe and Sound| United States

    Thank you for your interest in supporting Safe and Sound Schools®! There are so many ways to give back. Fundraisers are a fun way to increase community awareness and participation in school safety. All money received by Safe and Sound Schools® from third-party fundraisers goes directly toward the creation of free school safety tools and resources for schools. Thank you for your interest in supporting Safe and Sound! Fundraisers are a fun way to increase community awareness and participation in school safety. All money received by Safe and Sound from third-party fundraisers goes directly toward the creation of free school safety tools and resources for schools! We’ve compiled a list of ideas to help you plan. Email your own ideas to info@safeandsoundschools.org We’ll add them to the list here! Bake sales Pancake breakfasts Donut Days Hat Days—Purchase a ticket to wear your favorite or crazy hat in school for a day! Fun runs Coin drives/Dollar drives Homework Pass raffles Raffle for Lunch with the Principal (favorite teacher or coach) at a local restaurant 5K’s Craft fairs Carnivals Paper Crane Drive Restaurant nights Silent Auctions Used Book Sale Raffles Bingo nights—Maybe at the fire station? Invite the first responders! Car Washes Lollipop sales Novelty Pencils—Add a Safe School message! Snack Stands Raffle for a Ride-Along with the School Safety Officer or on the Fire Engine “Take a Step” for Safe and Sound Schools—purchase a footprint card for posting around the building or office—add a safety message! “Leading the Way” A Hike for Safer Schools to benefit Safe and Sound CONTACT US Would you like to speak to us about hosing a fundraiser? Contact us. CONTACT US FUNDRAISE HOME Fundraising IDEAS THAT WORK

  • FRANK DEANGELIS | Safe and Sound

    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 Review 1 Review 2 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 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! Testimonials

  • Prevent 2 Protect | Safe and Sound Students | United States

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

  • AJ DEANDREA | Safe and Sound

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

  • DR. TODD SAVAGE | Safe and Sound

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

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