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  • PREPaRE Training | Safe and Sound Schools | United States

    Safe and Sound Schools is now offering NASP’s evidence-based curriculum on school crisis prevention and response. PREPaRE helps build and refine comprehensive school safety frameworks through teaching coordinated readiness before, during, and after a crisis, addressing both physical and psychological needs. PREPaRE Training Safe and Sound Schools is now offering NASP’s evidence-based curriculum on school crisis prevention and response. PREPaRE helps build and refine comprehensive school safety frameworks through teaching coordinated readiness before, during, and after a crisis, addressing both physical and psychological needs. GET TRAINING WHAT IS PREPaRE? PREPaRE is the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP), School Crisis prevention and response training curriculum. The trainings are designed to strengthen school crisis prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery while utilizing an all-hazards, multidisciplinary approach. Safe and Sound Schools will be offering the following PREPaRE Workshops and Training Options : Why Train with Safe and Sound Schools? Safe and Sound Schools delivers PREPaRE training, grounded in the core belief that school safety is a team sport. Effective crisis prevention, response, and recovery require teamwork, and it is important that training happens across many different roles. Our approach emphasizes training the multidisciplinary team, so schools can build comprehensive school safety frameworks and procedures that are sustainable. Many PREPaRE authors and lead trainers have contributed to the foundational programs at Safe and Sound Schools. Teams can make connections with the concepts taught in PREPaRE and the many programs that offer practical, real-life applications of the training. LEARN MORE ABOUT PREPaRE Workshop 1: Comprehensive School Safety Planning: Prevention Through Recovery Workshop 1 focuses on establishing and sustaining comprehensive school safety that address both physical and psychological safety. The training covers the development of safety and crisis teams as well as conducting building vulnerability assessments. It is designed to help the multi-disciplinary team recognize their roles and work as a team in creating safe schools. The all-hazards approach to crisis ensures that teams are ready for each phase of management and the variety of different situations that come up in the school environment. Duration: 7 hours Workshop 2: Responding to an Acute Traumatic Stressor in Schools Workshop 2 focuses on how to provide immediate mental health crisis interventions to staff, students, and school community members who have been impacted by an acute traumatic stressor. The knowledge gained during the workshop allows for the development of a trauma-informed mental health response. This training is foundational to building readiness and aftercare strategies following a crisis. Duration: 13 hours Training of Trainers Training of Trainer workshops allows participants to learn the necessary skills and knowledge needed to become a NASP certified PREPaRE trainer. These workshops offer a strong option for districts and communities looking to establish a cohort of trainers that can continue to build a sustainable comprehensive safety framework. Duration WS1: 12 hours Duration WS2: 15 hours Refresher Courses Safe and Sound Schools is offering refresher courses in both workshop 1 and workshop 2. Refresher courses allow previous participants to recall and build on the skills learned in training. This is a practical option for teams that have taken the course within the last 2 years and want to refresh and practice the skills learned with fidelity. Refresher courses are customizable and can be designed to accommodate anywhere from one hour to a half-day. Community of Practice Community of Practice is a space for previously PREPaRE trained professionals to come together and talk through challenges, trends, and share knowledge. Participants will have the opportunity to sharpen and build skills that support implementing PREPaRE workshops with fidelity. Bring Training to Your Community Eqiup your staff with the training to effectively support students in need. Dive Deeper Learn more about PREPaRE Training and how it can help your school community strengthen crisis prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery. LEARN MORE

  • Post Crisis Support Network | Safe and Sound Schools | United States

    Safe and Sound Schools® offers a network of survivors and safety professionals to provide support to your community during the recovery process. The road to recovery is long and unique to each individual affected. This is hard, emotional, and often, overwhelming. And it takes time. Learning from people who have already been down this road can help your community move forward. When the unthinkable happens to your community, it can be hard to know where to turn and where to go. Safe and Sound Schools® offers a network of survivors and safety professionals to provide support to your community during the recovery process. The road to recovery is long and unique to each individual affected. This is hard, emotional, and often, overwhelming. And it takes time. Learning from people who have already been down this road can help your community move forward. Support ranges from on-site multi-dimensional reinforcement to remote phone or video-based guidance depending on available funding and resources. From a conversation to recovery planning, Safe and Sound Schools® have the experience, expertise, and resources to help schools through difficult times. BACK TO RESOURCES Whether recovering from an act of violence, natural disaster, or loss of life, there are others who can support your community. Reach out and connect with us. EMAIL US Post Crisis SUPPORT NETWORK

  • DR. STEPHANIE GRANT | Safe and Sound

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

  • Pathways for Prevention

    Created to provide a practical approach to school violence prevention with universal violence prevention strategies, as well... Pathways for Prevention Created to provide a practical approach to school violence prevention with universal violence prevention strategies, as well... Safe and Sound Schools is proud to introduce our newest program, Pathways for Prevention! This program was created to provide a practical approach to school violence prevention. Participants will explore universal violence prevention strategies, as well as targeted and intensive interventions for preventing and responding to violent behaviors to support safe and sound learning environments. Next Item Previous Item

  • DR. STEPHEN BROCK | Safe and Sound

    Dr. Stephen Brock delivers powerful, research-driven insights that help schools and organizations strengthen safety, crisis preparedness, and student mental health systems. Known for turning complex psychological frameworks into clear, actionable strategies, his presentations equip educators, administrators, and support staff with tools they can implement immediately. With decades of frontline and academic experience, Dr. Brock offers a uniquely credible and practical perspective that resonates with teams seeking to build resilient, trauma-informed learning environments. His approach is both comprehensive and accessible making him a top choice for institutions serious about improving school safety and student well-being. WHY Book Dr. Brock FOR YOUR EVENT? “Dr. Brock is extremely knowledgeable and has an amazing array of experience. His presentation was comprehensive, yet concise with great anecdotes which helped keep the audience engaged. The content was applicable, relevant and useful, and the whole and small group discussions were helpful. Loved his delivery, personal stories and explanation of information.” —Karen Freidhoff, PhD., Lead Psychologist, Long Beach Unified School District WHO Books Dr. Brock ? Dr. Brock's presentations are characterized by a blend of scholarly rigor and practical application. He engages audiences with evidence-based strategies and real-world examples, aiming to equip school professionals with the tools necessary for effective crisis prevention and response. Recent audiences include: Long Beach Unified School District Add your school or organization to the list of those inspired by Dr. Brock - book him today! BOOK TODAY DR. STEPHEN BROCK Nationally Certified School Psychologist and Licensed Educational Psychologist BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Dr. Brock 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 Identifying & Supporting At-Risk Students Intervention Strategies MTSS (Multi-Tiered Systems of Support) 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 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. Mental Health Matters Available as 3- or 6-hour presentation When it comes to ensuring student success mental health matters. From this session participants will learn about the challenges mental illness presented to our nation's school children. Strategies designed to promote mental wellness are reviewed. Comprehensive School Suicide Prevention Available as 3- or 6-hour presentation Suicide is the second leading cause of death for our nation's teenagers, and rates suicide deaths and suicidal ideation and behavior are increasing. After providing a review of suicide statistics, this session review school suicide prevention, intervention, and postvention. School-Based Crisis Prevention and Intervention Available as 3- or 6-hour presentation This advanced-level workshop is designed to enhance the crisis procedures already in place in your school district. Specifically, this session addresses conducting crisis exercises and drills, strategies for using social media, dealing with the press, and planning memorials. The legal ramifications of crisis response and the spiritual dimensions in the aftermath of a crisis are also explored. 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. 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. BOOK NOW Review 1 Review 2 “Dr. Brock's presentation style was engaging, and the discussions were helpful in processing the information. The thoroughness of his slides and attention to detail were much appreciated. The content was also practical and relevant to current cases and challenges we face in our schools. The resources were great as well, and I am excited to participate in additional trainings with Dr. Brock.” —Karen Freidhoff, PhD., Lead Psychologist, Long Beach Unified School District Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY Dr. Stephen E. Brock is a Professor Emeritus of School Psychology in the College of Education at California State University, Sacramento (CSUS). His professional preparation includes undergraduate and graduate degrees in psychology and a Ph.D. in Education (with an emphasis on psychological studies) from the University of California, Davis, where he researched Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). With an extensive background in school psychology, Dr. Brock brings a wealth of experience to his role as a professor. He spent 18 years as a school psychologist with the Lodi (CA) Unified School District, including a 6-year tenure as Lead Psychologist. His responsibilities included serving multiple elementary and middle schools, contributing to developing the district's school crisis response protocol, and specializing in functional behavioral assessment. Dr. Brock’s influential leadership activities at the state level have included serving as President of the California Association of School Psychologists (CASP). He continues to contribute to CASP as an Executive Advisory Committee member for CASP's peer-reviewed journal, Contemporary School Psychology. His past roles at CASP, including the Region 10 Representative, the Employment Relations Specialist, the Convention Chairperson, and the Spring Conference Chairperson, demonstrate his significant impact on the field. He has also made notable contributions as an editorial board member of CASP Today (the CASP newsletter) and Associate Editor of The California School Psychologist (now known as Contemporary School Psychology). His guest editorship of special issues on "School-Based Threat Assessment" and "Addressing Aggression and Violence in Diverse School Settings" further showcases his leadership and expertise. In recognition of his contributions, he received a CASP Outstanding School Psychologist award in 1997, and in 2012, he was honored with CASP's highest recognition, the Sandra Goff Memorial Award. Dr. Brock has been heavily involved in national-level leadership activities. He served as the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) president and currently holds the position of Associate Editor of the Communiqué (the NASP newspaper). He is also a member of the School Psychology Review Editorial Advisory Board. Dr. Brock was a founding member of NASP’s School Safety and Crisis Response Committee and chaired the Elections & Nominations Committee. Additionally, he previously held roles such as Coordinator of the Crisis Management Interest Group, California representative to the Delegate Assembly (now known as the Leadership Assembly), Western Region Representative to the Executive Council (now known as the Board of Directors), and Secretary. Dr. Brock has received several awards and recognitions, including NASP's Presidential Award in 2004, 2006, and 2016, the Crisis Management Interest Group's Award of Excellence in 2006 and 2007, and a Government and Professional Relations Committee Certificate of Appreciation in 2016. In 2024, he was honored with one of NASP’s highest awards, the Lifetime Achievement Award, for his exceptional services to children and school psychology, particularly in education and mental health services. Dr. Brock's contributions to the field of school psychology extend beyond his professional roles and association leadership. He has authored dozens of peer-reviewed journal articles and book chapters. Notably, he was the lead editor of the NASP publication Best Practices in School Crisis Prevention and Intervention (2nd ed.), the lead author of School Crisis Prevention and Intervention: The PREPaRE Model (2nd ed.), and the lead author of the PREPaRE Mental Health Crisis Intervention (3rd ed) workshop, further solidifying his position as a thought leader in the field, Dr. Brock lectures extensively (both nationally and internationally) on a diverse range of topics, including school safety, traumatic stress, emotional disability, crisis intervention, suicide prevention, professional burnout, ADHD, and special education eligibility. Book Dr. Brock TODAY! Testimonials

  • 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!

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