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

FEATURED SPEAKERS Close SPEAKER PERSPECTIVE Filter items with SpeakerPerspective Educator (Teacher, School Counselor, Special Educator) Law Enforcement/Public Safety Medical (Crisis/Emergency Responder, School Nurse) Parent/Guardian Practitioner (Mental Health Professional, Social Worker, Crisis Responder) School Leadership (Principal, Administrator, District Leader) School-based Mental Health (Psychologist, Social Worker, Counselor) Survivor RESET FILTER COMPREHENSIVE SCHOOL SAFETY DISCIPLINE Filter items with Comprehensive School Safety Discipline Culture, Climate & Community Health & Wellness Leadership, Law & Privacy Mental & Behavioral Health Operations & Emergency Management Safety & Security PREVENTION & INTERVENTION Filter items with Prevention & Intervention Bullying & Cyberbullying Prevention Digital Safety & Online Threats Grooming & Exploitation, Intervention Strategies Identifying & Supporting At-Risk Students Leader-care/Self-care MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) Security Sexual Abuse Prevention Substance Use & Addiction Suicide Prevention & Mental Health Support FILTER BY TOPIC Total Results: 33 EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS & RESPONSE Filter items with Emergency Preparedness & Response Active Shooter Prevention & Response Best Practices for Drills Emergency Preparedness & Response Staying Safe Stop the Bleed RESILENCE & RECOVERY Filter items with Resilience & Recovery Childhood Trauma & Adverse Experiences Lessons Learned from Tragedy Recovery & Resilience After Tragedy Trauma-Informed Practices Turning Pain Into Purpose THREAT ASSESSMENT Filter by Threat Assessment Averted School Violence Case Studies Behavioral Threat Assessment & Management Digital Threat Assessment Physical Security & Risk Assessment School Shooters: Profiles & Prevention Violence Prevention Strategies SAFETY OF SPECIAL POPULATIONS Filter by Safety of Special Populations Inclusive School Safety Practices LGTBQ+ & Safety Special Education Considerations TYPE OF PRESENTATION Filter by Type of Presentation Breakout Sessions Keynote Presentation Professional Development Training & Workshops FEATURED SPEAKER Filter items with FlagText FEATURED SPEAKER ANTOINETTE KING, CISSP Physical & Cyber Security Expert Learn More ANNEMOSS ROGERS Mental Health and Suicide Education Expert Learn More BEN FERNANDEZ Lead School Psychologist Northern Virginia School System Learn More DR. CJ HUFF Educator and Child Advocate Learn More DR. SAVAHANNA WAGNER Co-Founder Rescue in Color Emergency Medical Expert Learn More FRANK DEANGELIS Retired Principal of Columbine High School Learn More JONATHAN CRISTALL Prosecutor Certified Sexual Violence Prevention Instructor, Digital Safety Advocate, Author Learn More LISA HAMP Survivor of the Virginia Tech Shooting Learn More MICHELE GAY Founder and Executive Director of Safe and Sound Schools Sandy Hook Parent Learn More MICHELLE DENAULT Survivor of Educator Sexual Abuse Learn More MISSY DODDS Survivor of the Red Lake High School Shooting Learn More MOLLY BRADLEY HUDGENS School Counselor and Congressional Medal of Honor Citizens Honor Recipient Learn More OFFICER MEG SOULTZ Co-Founder Rescue in Color Public Safety and Emergency Medical Expert Learn More PAUL TIMM PSP Physical Security Expert Author of School Security: "How to Build and Strengthen A School Safety Program" Learn More AJ DEANDREA Retired Law Enforcement, Tactical Lead Trainer Learn More BRIAN TOWNSEND Retired Supervisory Special Agent/Resident Agent in Charge with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Learn More DANIEL JEWISS Lead Investigator for the Sandy Hook School Shooting Learn More DAVE OKADA President, Association of Threat Assessment Professionals (ATAP) Learn More DR. AMANDA NICKERSON Professor and Director of the Alberti Center for Bullying Abuse Prevention Learn More DR. CHARLES BARRETT Lead School Psychologist, Loudoun County Public Schools Learn More DR. GREG GERBER Assistant Professor at the New York Institute of Technology, Vancouver Learn More DR. MELISSA REEVES Former President of the National Association of School Psychologists Learn More DR. PETER LANGMAN Author and Expert in the Psychology of School Shooters Learn More DR. SCOTT POLAND Professor/Licensed Psychologist and Expert on School Violence Learn More DR. STEPHEN BROCK Nationally Certified School Psychologist and Licensed Educational Psychologist Learn More DR. TODD SAVAGE Professor of School Psychology Learn More JIN KIM FBI Veteran/Expert on Active Shooter & Workplace Violence Preparedness Learn More JOHN MCDONALD Co-founder & Chief Operating Officer, Council for School Safety Leadership (CSSL) Learn More MADALENA DEANDREA Borderline Bar and Grill Shooting Survivor & Resiliency Advocate Learn More NATALIE HAMMOND Elementary Principal and Sandy Hook School Shooting Survivor Learn More SCOTT ERVIN Behavioral Consultant Specializing in At-Risk, Disturbed, Abused and Neglected Kids Learn More SUSAN PAYNE Founder of Safe2Tell Special Advisor Safe & Sound Schools Learn More THERESA CAMPBELL Founder, President & CEO of Safer Schools Together Learn More All speaking engagements are coordinated through Brian at Kirkland Productions. To coordinate an event, please contact Brian at brian@kirklandproductions.com or 866-769-9037 Book A Safe and Sound SPEAKER TODAY Our nationally recognized team of speakers are available for your event! Please complete the form below to get started, and a member of our team will be in touch soon! Empowering School Communities From keynotes to hands-on workshops and community-wide forums, our speakers can adapt their delivery approach to meet the unique needs of your event. Our speaking team can deliver content on a variety of topics related to safety, crisis prevention, response, recovery, and mental health. Our Speakers Safe and Sound Schools'® panel of school safety experts combine deep practical knowledge with engaging delivery to inspire and educate your school community. BOOK A SPEAKER

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

Featured Antoinette King, CISSP, PSP, SICC, is a leading voice in school safety, bridging the gap between physical and cybersecurity to help schools and organizations navigate today’s complex threat landscape. With a deep understanding of how digital vulnerabilities impact physical safety, she challenges communities to expand their definition of security and take an integrated approach. Antoinette’s work is built on proactive prevention, shared responsibility, and the belief that safety begin with informed, empowered teams. Through her solutions-focused presentations, Antoinette equips educators, administrators, and safety leaders with the tools they need to protect students in both the physical and digital spaces—making her a vital resource for schools striving to stay ahead of evolving risks. WHY Book Antoinette King FOR YOUR EVENT? “We've had the privilege of working with Antoinette in multiple capacities over the last few years. From her contributions to our Safe, Sound, and Healthy Digital Environments toolkit for educators to her highly rated 'The Invisible Threat: Cyber Risks Facing Today's Students' keynote at our Northeast Summit, she brings passion and expertise to a very critical area in school safety. Having her as an exclusive member of our Safe and Sound Speakers Bureau is an incredible benefit to any school, district, or parent organization navigating the complex environment of physical safety, cyber security, and digital citizenship!” – Michele Gay, Founder and Executive Director, Safe and Sound Schools WHO Books Antoinette King ? Antoinette’s presentations are founded in decades of expertise in both physical and cybersecurity. She connects with audiences through relatable examples, forward-thinking strategies, and a clear commitment to empowering school communities to take action in the face of evolving threats. Her presentations cover topics such as integrated school security, cybersecurity awareness, digital privacy, and building a culture of safety that spans both physical spaces and online environments. Recent audiences Antoinette has spoken to include: Security Industry Association (SIA) Global Security Exchange (GSX) ISC West Northeast School Safety Summit Add your school or organization to the list of those inspired by Antoinette - book her today! BOOK TODAY ANTOINETTE KING, CISSP Physical & Cyber Security Expert BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Antoinette King TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! Antoinette’s book The Digital Citizen's Guide to Cybersecurity: How to Be Safe and Empowered Online is available for purchase on Amazon . SPEAKER Topics Include Safety & Security Digital Safety & Online Threats Bullying & Cyberbullying Prevention Security Physical Security & Risk Assessment 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. Building a Strong Cybersecurity Culture in your District Building a strong cybersecurity culture in your school district is crucial to protecting sensitive data, ensuring compliance, and fostering a security-first mindset among staff, students, and administrators. This session will explore how governance frameworks can establish clear cybersecurity policies, how executive buy-in can drive meaningful change, and how performing gap assessments can identify vulnerabilities in existing practices. By understanding these key elements, school leaders can create a cybersecurity strategy that is proactive, sustainable, and ingrained in daily operations. Differentiating Between Business Continuity, Disaster Recovery, and Incident Response Plans Organizations face a range of disruptions, from cyberattacks to natural disasters, making it crucial to have well-defined response strategies. This session will clarify the distinctions between Business Continuity, Disaster Recovery, and Incident Response plans, highlighting how each contributes to organizational resilience. Attendees will explore the significance of conducting a Business Impact Analysis (BIA) to prioritize recovery efforts, understand the roles and responsibilities of key stakeholders in each plan, and learn how leadership buy-in ensures effective implementation. By the end of the session, participants will gain actionable insights to strengthen preparedness and response frameworks within their organizations. Understanding the Benefits and Risks of Transitioning Your District to Cloud Servies and Solutions Transitioning to cloud services and solutions can offer school districts enhanced flexibility, scalability, and cost-efficiency. However, it also introduces new considerations around data security, privacy, and shared responsibilities between cloud providers and users. This session will explore the benefits and risks of moving your school district to the cloud, clarifying critical concepts such as Platform as a Service (PaaS), Software as a Service (SaaS), and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS). Attendees will gain insights into data security obligations, best practices for protecting sensitive student and administrative information, and strategies for ensuring compliance with privacy regulations. Testing, Training, Exercising Your District-wide Cybersecurity Plans A well-developed cybersecurity plan is only as effective as its testing, training, and exercises. School districts must regularly assess their Disaster Recovery (DR), Incident Response (IR), and Business Continuity (BCP) plans to ensure they are practical, comprehensive, and actionable. This session will provide strategies for selecting the right stakeholders, crafting realistic tabletop exercise scenarios, and conducting thorough after-action reviews to refine district-wide cybersecurity preparedness. Attendees will leave with actionable steps to strengthen their cybersecurity plans through structured testing and continuous improvement. Strengthening Cybersecurity in K-12 Education Through Internal Assessments Ensuring the security of sensitive data and technology in K-12 education is more critical than ever. Join us for an enlightening webinar, "Strengthening Cybersecurity in K-12 Education Through Internal Assessments," where we will explore how conducting thorough internal assessments can bolster cybersecurity efforts in educational institutions. This session will provide participants with actionable insights to identify vulnerabilities, address gaps, and implement effective solutions to create a secure learning environment. BOOK NOW Testimonials Review 1 Review 2 Review 3 "Every family that engages online and on social media should have their hands on [Antoinette King's] book. Employers are increasingly tightening their cybersecurity practices and policies, but as more people work and attend classes from home, the home network our families share is now totally interconnected and vulnerable to cyber crimes like phishing, hacking, and ransomware. Why not create the same safe practices we agree to follow at work, for our home? Ms. King writes an approachable, fun, kind, and empathetic way to open conversations with our families on how to protect your most important digital assets." -Susan F. "[Antoinette King's book is] a comprehensive and accessible resource for anyone looking to protect themselves in the digital world. Antoinette does a fantastic job of breaking down complex cybersecurity concepts into easy-to-understand language, making it a perfect read for beginners and experts alike. The practical tips and real-world examples provided throughout the book are incredibly helpful, and the emphasis on personal empowerment in the digital age is truly inspiring. I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to stay safe and secure online – it's a must-read!" Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY Antoinette King, CISSP, PSP, SICC has more than two decades of experience in the security industry, working in integration, education, manufacturing, and consulting. Antoinette founded Credo Cyber Consulting in 2020 with the goal of providing her clients a holistic perspective on security, bridging the gap between the physical and cybersecurity domains focusing on data privacy and protection. Her book, The Digital Citizen’s Guide to Cybersecurity: How to Stay Safe and Empowered Online hit the Amazon Best Seller’s list for all its categories in the first 48 hours of release. Antoinette is a Board-Certified Physical Security Professional (PSP), as well as a certified Data Privacy Protection Specialist (DPPS). She has an associate degree in Criminal Justice, Bachelor of Science in Managing Security Systems, and master’s degree in Cybersecurity Policy and Risk Management. Antoinette has presented on data privacy and cybersecurity in several capacities including webinars and in person engagements. She has also published articles on the topics of cybersecurity, data privacy, creating an insider threat programs, and digital citizenship. Additional awards and praise include: Honoree, 2024 SIA Women in Security Forum Power 100 Honoree, 2023 Top 100 Global Women in Cybersecurity Honoree, 2023 SIA Women in Security Forum Power 100 Winner, 2022 Cyber OSPAs Best Cybersecurity Consultant Winner, ASIS 2022 Karen Marquez Award Winner, SIA Chairman’s Award 2022 Honoree, SIA 2022 Women in Security Forum Power 100 Winner, SIA 2020 Women in Security Forum Scholarship Winner, SIA 2018 RISE Scholarship Book Antoinette King TODAY!

Featured Antoinette King, CISSP, PSP, SICC, is a leading voice in school safety, bridging the gap between physical and cybersecurity to help schools and organizations navigate today’s complex threat landscape. With a deep understanding of how digital vulnerabilities impact physical safety, she challenges communities to expand their definition of security and take an integrated approach. Antoinette’s work is built on proactive prevention, shared responsibility, and the belief that safety begin with informed, empowered teams. Through her solutions-focused presentations, Antoinette equips educators, administrators, and safety leaders with the tools they need to protect students in both the physical and digital spaces—making her a vital resource for schools striving to stay ahead of evolving risks. WHY Book Antoinette King FOR YOUR EVENT? “We've had the privilege of working with Antoinette in multiple capacities over the last few years. From her contributions to our Safe, Sound, and Healthy Digital Environments toolkit for educators to her highly rated 'The Invisible Threat: Cyber Risks Facing Today's Students' keynote at our Northeast Summit, she brings passion and expertise to a very critical area in school safety. Having her as an exclusive member of our Safe and Sound Speakers Bureau is an incredible benefit to any school, district, or parent organization navigating the complex environment of physical safety, cyber security, and digital citizenship!” – Michele Gay, Founder and Executive Director, Safe and Sound Schools WHO Books Antoinette King ? Antoinette’s presentations are founded in decades of expertise in both physical and cybersecurity. She connects with audiences through relatable examples, forward-thinking strategies, and a clear commitment to empowering school communities to take action in the face of evolving threats. Her presentations cover topics such as integrated school security, cybersecurity awareness, digital privacy, and building a culture of safety that spans both physical spaces and online environments. Recent audiences Antoinette has spoken to include: Security Industry Association (SIA) Global Security Exchange (GSX) ISC West Northeast School Safety Summit Add your school or organization to the list of those inspired by Antoinette - book her today! BOOK TODAY ANTOINETTE KING, CISSP Physical & Cyber Security Expert BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Antoinette King TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! Antoinette’s book The Digital Citizen's Guide to Cybersecurity: How to Be Safe and Empowered Online is available for purchase on Amazon . SPEAKER Topics Include Safety & Security Digital Safety & Online Threats Bullying & Cyberbullying Prevention Security Physical Security & Risk Assessment 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. Building a Strong Cybersecurity Culture in your District Building a strong cybersecurity culture in your school district is crucial to protecting sensitive data, ensuring compliance, and fostering a security-first mindset among staff, students, and administrators. This session will explore how governance frameworks can establish clear cybersecurity policies, how executive buy-in can drive meaningful change, and how performing gap assessments can identify vulnerabilities in existing practices. By understanding these key elements, school leaders can create a cybersecurity strategy that is proactive, sustainable, and ingrained in daily operations. Differentiating Between Business Continuity, Disaster Recovery, and Incident Response Plans Organizations face a range of disruptions, from cyberattacks to natural disasters, making it crucial to have well-defined response strategies. This session will clarify the distinctions between Business Continuity, Disaster Recovery, and Incident Response plans, highlighting how each contributes to organizational resilience. Attendees will explore the significance of conducting a Business Impact Analysis (BIA) to prioritize recovery efforts, understand the roles and responsibilities of key stakeholders in each plan, and learn how leadership buy-in ensures effective implementation. By the end of the session, participants will gain actionable insights to strengthen preparedness and response frameworks within their organizations. Understanding the Benefits and Risks of Transitioning Your District to Cloud Servies and Solutions Transitioning to cloud services and solutions can offer school districts enhanced flexibility, scalability, and cost-efficiency. However, it also introduces new considerations around data security, privacy, and shared responsibilities between cloud providers and users. This session will explore the benefits and risks of moving your school district to the cloud, clarifying critical concepts such as Platform as a Service (PaaS), Software as a Service (SaaS), and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS). Attendees will gain insights into data security obligations, best practices for protecting sensitive student and administrative information, and strategies for ensuring compliance with privacy regulations. Testing, Training, Exercising Your District-wide Cybersecurity Plans A well-developed cybersecurity plan is only as effective as its testing, training, and exercises. School districts must regularly assess their Disaster Recovery (DR), Incident Response (IR), and Business Continuity (BCP) plans to ensure they are practical, comprehensive, and actionable. This session will provide strategies for selecting the right stakeholders, crafting realistic tabletop exercise scenarios, and conducting thorough after-action reviews to refine district-wide cybersecurity preparedness. Attendees will leave with actionable steps to strengthen their cybersecurity plans through structured testing and continuous improvement. Strengthening Cybersecurity in K-12 Education Through Internal Assessments Ensuring the security of sensitive data and technology in K-12 education is more critical than ever. Join us for an enlightening webinar, "Strengthening Cybersecurity in K-12 Education Through Internal Assessments," where we will explore how conducting thorough internal assessments can bolster cybersecurity efforts in educational institutions. This session will provide participants with actionable insights to identify vulnerabilities, address gaps, and implement effective solutions to create a secure learning environment. BOOK NOW Review 1 Review 2 Review 3 "Every family that engages online and on social media should have their hands on [Antoinette King's] book. Employers are increasingly tightening their cybersecurity practices and policies, but as more people work and attend classes from home, the home network our families share is now totally interconnected and vulnerable to cyber crimes like phishing, hacking, and ransomware. Why not create the same safe practices we agree to follow at work, for our home? Ms. King writes an approachable, fun, kind, and empathetic way to open conversations with our families on how to protect your most important digital assets." -Susan F. "[Antoinette King's book is] a comprehensive and accessible resource for anyone looking to protect themselves in the digital world. Antoinette does a fantastic job of breaking down complex cybersecurity concepts into easy-to-understand language, making it a perfect read for beginners and experts alike. The practical tips and real-world examples provided throughout the book are incredibly helpful, and the emphasis on personal empowerment in the digital age is truly inspiring. I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to stay safe and secure online – it's a must-read!" Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY Antoinette King, CISSP, PSP, SICC has more than two decades of experience in the security industry, working in integration, education, manufacturing, and consulting. Antoinette founded Credo Cyber Consulting in 2020 with the goal of providing her clients a holistic perspective on security, bridging the gap between the physical and cybersecurity domains focusing on data privacy and protection. Her book, The Digital Citizen’s Guide to Cybersecurity: How to Stay Safe and Empowered Online hit the Amazon Best Seller’s list for all its categories in the first 48 hours of release. Antoinette is a Board-Certified Physical Security Professional (PSP), as well as a certified Data Privacy Protection Specialist (DPPS). She has an associate degree in Criminal Justice, Bachelor of Science in Managing Security Systems, and master’s degree in Cybersecurity Policy and Risk Management. Antoinette has presented on data privacy and cybersecurity in several capacities including webinars and in person engagements. She has also published articles on the topics of cybersecurity, data privacy, creating an insider threat programs, and digital citizenship. Additional awards and praise include: Honoree, 2024 SIA Women in Security Forum Power 100 Honoree, 2023 Top 100 Global Women in Cybersecurity Honoree, 2023 SIA Women in Security Forum Power 100 Winner, 2022 Cyber OSPAs Best Cybersecurity Consultant Winner, ASIS 2022 Karen Marquez Award Winner, SIA Chairman’s Award 2022 Honoree, SIA 2022 Women in Security Forum Power 100 Winner, SIA 2020 Women in Security Forum Scholarship Winner, SIA 2018 RISE Scholarship Book Antoinette King TODAY! Testimonials

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

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

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

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

Staying Safe is an options-based emergency response framework that equips staff and students with a variety of safety skills that they can use in different situations. Recognizing the unique needs of the school environment, Safe and Sound Schools has tailored this program to address the specific roles and responsibilities of school personnel, ensuring that the training... PROGRAM Highlights Staying Safe was designed with all ages and abilities in mind. The program focuses on the following: Behaviors and choices that support safe decision-making during an unsafe situation Preparedness tools to utilize in a crisis Simple and familiar actions that students and staff can follow during a crisis to increase their chance of safety Supplemental protocols and procedures to support policies already in place, such as SRP, SRM, and EOPs Active discussion, exploration, learning, and practice designed to build confidence and competence Leveraging the expertise of your multi-disciplinary team Staying SAFE GET TRAINING WHAT IS Staying Safe? Staying Safe is an options-based emergency response framework that equips staff and students with a variety of safety skills that they can use in different situations. Recognizing the unique needs of the school environment, Safe and Sound Schools has tailored this program to address the specific roles and responsibilities of school personnel, ensuring that the training is as relevant and effective as possible in a school context. We aim to teach safety skills as practical actions that individuals can apply based on their circumstances. DOWNLOAD PREP GUIDE DOWNLOAD TRAINING GUIDE Training Details The Staying Safe training program is an 8-hour training that is filled with hands-on activities and discussions to prepare individuals to implement this program with high fidelity. The training covers: The foundation of the Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training (ALERRT) program and their Civilian Response to Active Shooter (CRASE) model. How to educate and teach staff and students in the most age and developmentally appropriate manner. How to implement this program successfully in various grade level bands. We also provide additional resources and hands-on support in this training to assist you in implementing Staying Safe with fidelity . Bring Safe and Sound Training TO YOUR SCHOOL, DISTRICT OR ORGANIZATION! Our expert team is dedicated to empowering school safety stakeholders across the U.S. and beyond with training and tailored consulting. If none of our existing programs are the perfect fit, we also offer customized consulting to help you strengthen your school safety efforts. Please complete the form below to get started, and a member of our team will be in touch soon!

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

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