School Safety Expert Tip – Use Caution When Considering New School Safety Measures on 05/24/2013
School safety is naturally more on the minds of parents, students and school officials since the dea...
School Security Expert Tip - Attacking the Active Shooter – Has School Lockdown Really Failed? on 05/20/2013
There are people saying that the school lockdown is a failed concept that is outdated and in dire need of replacement. This argument has not been established as a fact. This assertion is hotly contested by most leading experts in the field of school safety.
School Security Expert Tip – Mass Casualty Attacks In Chinese Schools Leave Hundreds of Students and Staff Wounded and Dead on 05/20/2013
For nearly a decade, we have been tracking a series of horrible mass casualty shootings, stabbings, ...
School Safety Liability Expert Tip – School Safety Efforts Should be Comprehensive on 05/18/2013
I had the opportunity to present a session at a conference for attorneys at the Walter F. George Sch...
School Security Assessments - How to Get the Most out of Your Project on 05/16/2013
I was asked by Utica National Insurance to present information on how schools can select qualified...
School Security Assessments – Why Evaluating Climate, Culture and Emergency Preparedness Can Also be a Life and Death Matter for Public, Private, Charter and Independent Schools on 05/14/2013
Our analysts are currently working on more than thirty school security assessment projects for public, parochial and independent schools. When reviewing the requests for proposals (RFP’s) and requests for qualifications (RFQ’) for these and other projects, we have noted that school officials have often been emphasizing school security. When describing the scope of work for their school security assessment, there has been a pronounced tendency to focus on school security protocols and technologies.
School Security Assessments – Try to Avoid Conducting School Security Assessments During the Summer Months on 05/14/2013
School security assessments are an invaluable tool to improve school security, school climate and school emergency preparedness. While there are some instances where school officials have no choice to do otherwise, school security assessments conducted when schools are closed are less effective. School security assessments are more effective when they are conducted when assessors can observe students and employees arriving in the morning, departing in the afternoon and moving about the school during the school day.
School Security Video – Why the Room Clear Protocol Can Enhance School Safety on 05/10/2013
Our award-winning school safety video crew has released another free school safety video podcast on the room clear protocol.
School Safety Expert Tip – Consider Whistles for Life for Life-Saving Low-Tech Emergency Communications on 05/07/2013
Rescue whistles can be an invaluable low-tech emergency communications tool for school crisis situations. School staff who detect danger can use a rescue whistle to rapidly gain the attention of 300 students in a noisy cafeteria, spread out in an outdoor area or facilitate response in many other situations.
School Security Assessments for Independent Schools – Unique Challenges for a Unique Environment on 05/03/2013
I just finished another independent school security assessment this afternoon and it dawned on me th...
School Security Video – Safe Havens Vide Releases New Free School Crisis Preparedness Video on 05/02/2013
Our video crew has just released a new free school security video podcast focused on how school offi...
School Security Expert Tip – Bid Your School Security Assessment Project to Cut Costs and Improve Quality on 05/01/2013
School officials sometimes pay $10,000 or more for school security assessments when the most experie...
School Security Expert Tip - Attacking the Active Shooter – Has School Lockdown Really Failed? on 04/29/2013
There are people who purport that the school lockdown is a failed concept that is outdated and in dire need of replacement. This argument has not been established as a fact and is hotly contested by most leading experts in the field of school safety. When pressed for examples of where lockdown has failed in schools, proponents of abandoning school lockdown usually cite four instances: The library at Columbine High School which was actually never locked during the attack.
School Safety Keynote Presentations - Connecticut School Safety Conference Extends the Deadline for Registration on 04/26/2013
The Hartford Regional Educational Council CREC has decided to accept out-of-state guests for its statewide school safety conference to be held on May 1 in Hartford Connecticut. Due to the overwhelming response, CREC has decided to extend the April 25th registration deadline. I feel truly honored to be allowed to keynote this very special school safety conference.
School Security Expert Tip – Thoughts on School Safety and Gun Control, Arming Teachers, Training People to Attack Gunmen in Schools and Other Hotly Debated Approaches To School Shootings on 04/08/2013
While it is important for us to debate new ways that we might be able to reduce school violence, many proven concepts are still not in use by most public and non-public schools in America. We should implement things that have proven to work while we discuss things concepts that are not yet proven to work.
School Security Expert Tip – Controlled Testing During School Security Assessments Demonstrates Deadly Disconnects on 03/18/2013
I apologize for my lack of blogs over the past few weeks, we are still working seven days a week trying to keep up with demand. We have been working on more than two dozen school security assessment projects, keynoting conferences each week and working on many other short notice school security projects. As mentioned in an earlier blog, our analysts having been noticing some disturbing trends during our school security assessments since the tragic school shooting in Newtown.
School Security Expert Tip – Assess, not Guess When it Comes to School Security Assessments on 02/11/2013
School security experts have found that school security assessments as well as a varety of simple and free approaches can help school officials spot and correct differences in what written school security policies and procedures say and what actual practices are in schools.
School Security Expert Tip – Disturbing New Trends in School Security Assessments on 02/06/2013
Safe Havens analysts are currently working on 20 school security assessment projects covering several hundred public school and non- public school facilities. Our analysts are all reporting some very unique trends in contrast to the school security assessments we assisted our clients with prior to the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting in December. These trends should be of considerable concern to school and public safety officials.
School Security Expert Tip – Speed of Decision Making in Perspective on 02/04/2013
It can be difficult to unwind when working long days seven days a week as our analyst often have to do right now. Our dedicated school security experts are working on more than 20 school security assessment projects covering hundreds of schools while also keynoting more than a dozen statewide school security conferences in the next 90 days. One thing that helps me to relax after a long day of assessment work is to read.
School Security Expert Tip - Utilize Free School Safety Resources on 01/28/2013
A non-profit school security center, Safe Havens International offers hundreds of free school security and school security assessment resources.
School Security Expert Tip - Murder of Chinese Principal with Scissors Offers Life-Saving Lessons For U.S. Schools on 01/17/2013
In yet another edged weapons incident in the People’s Republic of China, 27-year-old Wang Zhichu has been accused of climbing over a security fence and attacking a 9-year-old third grader before stabbing the school’s principal to death when he attempted to stop the attack. According to police, Zhichu, used a pair of scissors in the attack. Police say the 9-year-old victim was stabbed deeply in the head and may not survive.
School Security Expert Chris Dorn Shares Tips on School Lockdowns in Campus Safety Magazine on 01/11/2013
Campus Safety Magazine has just published a feature article 9 Tips for More Effective Lockdowns written by son Chris Dorn. A well known school security expert, Chris has published five books on school safety and has worked in Mexico, Bolivia, Canada, England, France, South Africa and Vietnam. In his well-written article on school lockdowns - 9 Tips to Improve School Lockdowns, Chris outlines a variety of ways to improve lockdowns based on assessment, evaluation and research.
School Security Expert Tip – Using Red or Yellow Text in School Crisis Plans Can Cause Problems on 01/07/2013
School Security Experts conducting school security assessments have found many schools use red text. This text disappears for people who are color-blind.
School Security Expert Tip - Be Sure to Upgrade Skills of School Staff along with Security Technology on 01/04/2013
We have routinely been able to beat metal detector checkpoints, visitor management systems and some of the most sophisticated access control systems.
Respond to school shootings with proven research on 01/02/2013
While there are no solutions that offer 100% protection from school violence, the research and experience these authors bring to the table can help us more effectively note and react to the behaviors of people and the fast breaking situations that can be so critical in these types of incidents.
School Security Assessments: Carefully Consider Your Needs First on 12/28/2012
We have been inundated with requests to conduct school security assessments since the tragic shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School. Many of the schools and school districts that have contacted us have never had a school safety assessment conducted before. We felt that it might be helpful to provide few thoughts on the pros and cons of different types of school safety assessments.
School Security Improvements: Focus on Quality Rather than Speed on 12/26/2012
Parents, students, school officials and community leaders across the country are reviewing security and emergency preparedness measures in the wake of the tragic shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School last week. School officials should move thoughtfully to address school shootings and improved school security and crisis preparedness using research-based approaches.
Slow Down - Thoughtful Approaches to Enhanced School Security Work Best on 12/23/2012
As with other tragic mass casualty shootings at schools, there has been an avalanche of media coverage in the wake of the deadly incident at Sandy Hook Elementary School. Our senior analysts have been fielding so many media requests that Dr. Shepherd strained her voice last week.
Safe Havens School Security Experts Offer Free Web seminar on Training and Empowering School Staff to Make Life-Saving Decisions on 12/16/2012
We have now posted a link to a free web seminar developed by Safe Havens in collaboration with the Illinois Principal’s Association directly in our resources section. This 20 minute seminar on empowering and training school employees to make improved life-saving decisions discusses concepts grounded in research, evaluation and expert witness forensic evaluation of past school crisis events. As a non-profit school safety center, Safe Havens adds new free school safety resources for schools on a regular basis.
Sandy Hook Elementary School Shooting in Newtown, CT - Initial Thoughts on 12/15/2012
This post was co-authored by Chris Dorn. Yesterday’s school shooting is a tragic reminder that while school is still a safe place to be, there is always risk in any community. Before looking for lessons learned from this incident we need to wait for all of the facts to come in, but I’d like to review some of what we know about active shooter events and safe schools.
Safe Havens International and the Illinois Principal’s Association Collaborate to Offer Free Web Seminar on Life and Death Decision Making Skills for School Employees. on 12/15/2012
The school safety and security experts at Safe Havens International developed a free web seminar for the Illinois Principal’s Association as a pro bono effort. The association has been kind enough to allow people to access this course at no cost even though they are not members of their Education Leaders Network. The course - Permission to Live – Effective School Emergency Preparedness through Empowerment, Planning and Practice covers research-based concepts to help prepare school employees to make more effective decisions when faced with life and death situations.
Allegations of Student Being Strip-Searched by Assistant Principal Demonstrate the Importance of Proper Communications of Student Search Guidelines for Student Searches on 12/13/2012
Parents of a 10-year-old boy who was allegedly strip-searched by a North Carolina elementary school assistant principal have filed a lawsuit against school officials.
Free School Safety Videos – What are Functional Protocols? on 12/10/2012
Safe Havens International has been working hard this year to produce a number of new free school safety videos that can be used to help train school staff.
Texas Student Shoots Himself While Handcuffed and Being Transported from School in Police Car on 12/06/2012
A seventeen-year-old student shot himself yesterday while being transported from his school in a police car in Harris County, Texas. A student reported that he received a text message from the student indicating that the student might harm himself and notified school officials who notified police that the student might be at risk of harming himself with a weapon. The student was enrolled at the Galena Park Independent School District near Houston.
First Things First – Focus on the Most Important School Security Risks When Considering Terrorist Attacks on 12/04/2012
Predictions relating to terrorist attacks at school polling sites have not come to pass since they were first voiced with considerable alarm more than a decade ago. While a terrorist attack on a school polling site could occur, a reality is that children die every year in schools due to easily corrected gaps in student supervision.
Death of University of Virginia Student on Field Trip Demonstrates the Need for Field Trip and Study Abroad Preparedness on 12/03/2012
Death of student in Dominica shows the need for preparedness for school field trip and study abroad programs
Russian School Children Bring Lion Cub to School on 11/30/2012
Today’s blog is a bit different. I ran across this article about a group of elementary school ch...
Florida Atlantic University offers accredited online course on Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) on 11/29/2012
Dr. Randy Atlas will now be teaching an accredited 3 credit hour online course on Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED). Students who complete the course will be issued a Practitioner’s Certificate of Completion.
School Safety Expert Tip – Take Advantage of the Many Free School Safety Resources That are Available on 11/27/2012
One of the goals of our non-profit school safety center is to provide as many free resources to scho...
A Career Well-Lived - School Security Director Gerald Summers Retires on 11/26/2012
Gerald Summers Retires from his position as the Director of School Security in Evansville, Indiana and recieves hundreds of e-mails thanking him for his service.
Fatal Shooting of 13-Year-Old on School Bus in Miami Shocks Parents and Students on 11/21/2012
A male student from Palm Glades Preparatory Academy has been charged in the fatal shooting of 13-year-old female student witnessed by the victim’s seven-year-old sister and several other students yesterday.
Wishing a Happy Thanksgiving on 11/21/2012
We at Safe Havens wish you a happy and meaningful Thanksgiving. We hope that you have a wonderful ...
New Free School Safety Expert Video – Why is Terminology Important for School Crisis Planning? on 11/19/2012
New Free School Safety Video - The Importance of Common Terminology for School Crisis Plans. The Ask Safe Havens video series is designed as a staff development resource featuring a variety of school safety experts with national and international experience in the field.
"Fire on The Mountain - The True Story of the South Canyon Fire" an Instructive Read for School Crisis Preparedness on 11/17/2012
I just finished reading Fire on the Mountain - The True Story of the South Canyon Fire by John N. Maclean. The book was mentioned by Dr.
Indiana School Safety Specialists Academy Sets New Attendance Record for Basic Academy on 11/15/2012
Indiana School Safety Specialists Academy sets new attendance record
Free School Safety Web Seminar - Permission to Live – Effective School Emergency Preparedness through Empowerment, Planning and Practice on 11/14/2012
I feel very fortunate to have so many talented and dedicated school safety experts as both paid staf...
School Security Expert Tip - Plain View Vehicle Checks Can Help Prevent School Weapons Attacks on 11/13/2012
A simple strategy to help reduce the number of weapons on school property was developed in the Bibb County Public School System Police Department more than twenty years ago. The concept is now in wide usage due to a school safety training video funded by the Garrett Metal Detector Company in the late 1990s.
Free Web Presentation on Improving school safety and climate by School Safety Expert Michael Dorn on 11/12/2012
The school safety expert team at Safe Havens works hard to offer many high quality free resources for schools. We are pleased to announce yet another free school safety resource. Safe Havens has released dozens of new free school safety training video podcasts and two free research papers in recent months.
Training at the Speed of Life by Kenneth R. Murray - an Excellent Book for those who are Interested in Understanding how to Train People for Life and Death Decision-Making on 11/10/2012
Lt. Col. Dave Grossman was kind enough to send me a copy of Kenneth R.
Free School Safety Video – Bullying of Special Needs Students on 11/08/2012
Safe Havens Releases free school safety training video on bullying of special needs students. This compelling staff development tool is designed as yet another free school safety resource for schools.
New Free School Crisis Planning Video Podcast on 11/07/2012
Safe Havens International Video has just released another Ask Safe Havens free school safety trainin...
School Bus Security Experts - The Power of a School Bus Driver’s Brain on 11/06/2012
Viewing the school bus security camera and listening to the audio one can only be deeply impressed by the performance of Angel Perry. A school bus driver in Henryville, Indiana, Angel Perry is a true American hero.
Please Stop Laughing at Me – One Woman’s Inspirational Story by Jodee Blanco is a Powerful Book about School Bullying by Girls on 11/03/2012
After several of my clients recommended the book I read Jodee Blanco’s Please Stop Laughing at Me ...
School Security Expert Tips – Target Identifiers on 11/02/2012
I was honored to have the opportunity to keynote an annual state conference for early childcare faci...
Safe Havens International Releases new School Bus Security and Emergency Preparedness Video on 11/01/2012
Safe Havens International releases new staff development video Safe Topics: Safe Passages – School Bus Security and Emergency Preparedness. The latest release in the engaging Safe Topics school safety video series, this video provides information on school bus security and emergency preparedness developed by Michael and Chris Dorn.
School Safety Experts at Safe Havens Release New School Safety Training Video on Mental Health Recovery Planning for Schools on 10/31/2012
Safe Havens is pleased to announce the next video in the Safe Topics Series of school safety videos. Crisis Recovery - Mental Health Recovery features Dr. Sonayia Shepherd and addresses different aspects of mental health recovery planning.
New York City Bullying Victim Jumps in Front of Train on 10/29/2012
In a tragic and graphic public act of suicide, 15-year-old Felicia Garcia jumped in front of a train while fellow students watched. The freshman from Tottenville High School in Staten Island, New York was humiliated when she learned that a group of football players had filmed her having sex with them. Other students had reportedly bullied Ms.
Bullying Prevention Presentation in South Dakota on 10/29/2012
I had a great experience keynoting the Fifth Annual South Dakota Parent Engagement Conference in Rapid City, South Dakota the past Saturday. I felt honored to be asked to be the keynote speaker for this awesome conference. The keynote was focused on bullying prevention and related topics such as ways to improve school climate, techniques to enhance student supervision and cyber-bullying were covered. The session also included information on evaluation of school security.
Safe Havens International Releases new School Safety Training Video - Safe Topics – Planning for Disabilities and Other Special Needs During an Emergency on 10/29/2012
Safe Havens Video is proud to announce the release of a new learning resource. The video – Safe Topics – Planning for Disabilities and Other Special Needs during an Emergency provides detailed and timely information to help schools more effectively plan to evacuate, shelter and otherwise protect students, staff and visitors with special needs during crisis situations. The video also comes with an individual standardized preparedness plan which can be used to develop a comprehensive personal plan for each student and staff member requiring special assistance during emergency situations.
Jane’s Chemical-Biological Defense Guidebook is still a Frightening but Informative Read on 10/27/2012
I first read the Jane’s Chemical-Biological Defense Guidebook in more than ten years ago while working on a book series for the renowned security, defense and intelligence publisher. They gave copies of the then $2,000 book to each of us on the co-authoring team to give us a better idea of what they needed us to write in the Jane’s Safe School Planning Guide for All Hazards. The book details how a wide array of chemical and biological attacks have and can be carried out and the sometimes highly developed preparedness capabilities are needed to respond to such attacks properly.
School Security is a Part of Excellence in Education on 10/25/2012
I went to pick my son up from his elementary school yesterday afternoon to take him to a medical appointment. I was pleased to see that the staff member who is responsible for signing out students required me to hand her my driver's license and checked my son's name against his contact information and ran my information through a database of known sexual predators before having him brought to the office. These simple steps take only seconds but dramatically increase the level of safety at the school.
Leading School Safety Experts Provide Free School Security Assessment Checklist on 10/24/2012
The diverse team of school safety experts at Safe Havens International have assisted our clients in ...
Free school safety video podcast – Benefits of Security Cameras for Schools on 10/22/2012
New release - free Ask Safe Havens school safety video podcast
Bullying Beyond the Schoolyard – Preventing and Responding to Cyberbullying Tackles a Hot and Difficult Topic on 10/20/2012
The rapid and continual changes in how we use technology to communicate with others have created some amazing benefits. Unfortunately, as with the Thompson Submachine Gun, the ATM and credit cards, there are always people who will use technology for illicit purposes rather than for good. Cyberbullying is just one more example of how some students will use the amazing technology we have to harm other students.
School Security in Israel – Fact Versus Fiction on 10/19/2012
I read several posts on a homeland security group on LinkedIn relating to soldiers with automatic weapons being assigned to schools in Israel to protect staff and students from terrorists. This is a very pervasive myth probably stems from conference presenters who have heard and repeated this inaccurate description from others. I have no idea who started this myth, but it is still alive and well.
School Safety Expert Advice on Simple Techniques to Improve Supervision of Children - Positioning on 10/18/2012
As we often emphasize in our books, training videos, presentations, articles and web courses, improv...
Free School Safety Expert Resource – Presentation on Disguised Weapons on 10/17/2012
Free presentation on disguised weapons available from Safe Havens International
School Safety Terms – What do they mean? on 10/16/2012
Guest blog by Dr. Sonayia Shepherd You have probably heard the term “school safety” numerous times. Educators, practitioners, parents, and media use the term often, but what does it really mean?
When School Metal Detection Makes Sense on 10/15/2012
metal detectors can be effective for schools when properly utilized
School Security Technologies Sometimes Change the Field of School Safety on 10/15/2012
School safety technology helps raise test scores while making students and teachers safer
A Framework for Understanding Poverty by Dr. Ruby Payne is an Important Read for School Safety Practitioners on 10/13/2012
Over the years, a number of my clients have spoken highly of the work of Dr. Ruby Payne who is a lea...
Tips for Selecting a School Safety Expert Witness on 10/12/2012
With the assistance of Attorney Sue Ann Hartig, we have just released a new topical paper that provides advice on screening and selecting school safety expert witnesses. This free paper is designed to help school officials, risk managers, insurance professionals, judges and attorneys tasked with evaluating the qualifications and credibility of expert witnesses for school safety cases.
Free List of School Safety Grant Sources on 10/12/2012
Dr. Sonayia Shepherd developed a fourteen page list of potential school safety grant sources a few ...
Free School Safety Video - Lightning Meters for School Athletic Events on 10/10/2012
In this free school safety video podcast, Russell Bentley describes how lightning meters can save lives at school athletic events and other outdoor activities. This recent release from the Ask Safe Havens series, covers key points in about one minute.
Free School Safety E-Book on 10/10/2012
Safe Havens makes the school safety e-book Let None Learn in Fear available at no cost via our webs...
Abductions of Students from Schools are a Rare but Very Real School Safety Risk on 10/08/2012
Recent cases in California Demonstrate that While rare, Abductions of Students from Schools do Sometimes Occur.
New Draft Definition for Cyberbullying on 10/08/2012
We are working on a new free school safety resource and we have developed a first draft definition...
Amish Grace - How Forgiveness Transcended Tragedy is a Powerful Read on the Deadly Nichol Mines School Shooting on 10/06/2012
While presenting for a college in Pennsylvania a couple of years back, I was given a copy of the book Amish Grace - How Forgiveness Transcended Tragedy by Donald, b. Kraybill, Steven M. Nolt and David L.
Frederick Flowers, 66-year-old School bus Driver Arrested for Driving While Intoxicated after Crashing Bus into Residence in Long Island on 10/04/2012
School bus driver in Long Island arrested for driving while intoxicated after crashing his bus into a house during route
Free School Safety Video Podcast - Why is it Important to Plan for Crisis Events During School Athletic Events? on 10/04/2012
In this latest video in the Ask Safe Havens series, Russell Bentley explores key reasons for taking ...
New Bullying Definition on 10/03/2012
We are working on a new free resource for school safety practitioners. One task we have is to develop new definitions for school safety terms. I would welcome any feedback on this rough draft definition for bullying.
Free School Safety Video Podcast Featuring Dr. Sonayia Shepherd- How Can School Staff Improve their Ability to Respond During a Crisis? on 10/02/2012
This one minute video podcast features Dr. Sonayia Shepherd. Dr.
The secondary or “Fall” Severe Weather Season - Guest blog by Jacob Terrell on 10/01/2012
Normally during the latter part of autumn people spend their time thinking about the holidays and Christmas shopping. For schools it means final exams, Thanksgiving/Christmas vacation, elementary school holiday parties, and Christmas play’s from the drama department; but what about severe weather? Many people might answer that question with a response such as “Severe weather, this time of year?
China Inc. by Ted Fishman Helps us Understand Many of the Dramatic Changes in Society on 09/29/2012
I read China Inc. How the Rise of the Next Superpower Challenges America and the World while flying ...
Improving Student Supervision - A Key to Safer Schools on 09/27/2012
Whether we are evaluating school safety, climate and culture for client school districts and non-public schools or serving as a school safety expert witness, one of the most common and critical issues in school safety today is student supervision. Improving student supervision is usually very inexpensive, easy to accomplish and can significantly improve student safety. The specific techniques for improving student supervision are often simple and can be easily adapted to fit the unique environment of a school without much difficulty.
New Free School Safety Video Podcast - What are some of the Most Important Considerations for Athletic Event Emergency Preparedness? on 09/27/2012
Safe Havens has released a new free school safety video podcast on key issues for school athletic event emergency preparedness.
Student Dies from Apparent Self-Inflicted Gunshot Wound at Stillwater, Oklahoma Middle School on 09/26/2012
Student dies from apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound in Stillwater, Oklahoma junior high school
Connecting Staff, Students, Parents and the Place of School on 09/25/2012
Creating a positive school climate can be challenging but is possible and worthwhile
Ron Clark’s Book The Essential 55 is an Awesome Book for Educators on 09/22/2012
Though I am not an educator by profession, I do try to learn what I can about the teachers we are tr...
School and Public Safety Officials Encounter Increased Numbers of Cyber Threats Relating to School Violence on 09/21/2012
School and Law Enforcement Officials Dealing With Cyber Threats Relating to School Violence
Tennessee School Bus Crash Demonstrates the Need for Comprehensive Emergency Preparedness Plans and training in the National Incident Management Syste on 09/21/2012
School Bus Crash in Washington County, Tennessee Resulting in 26 Transports to Hospitals Demonstrates the Importance of Comprehensive Planning and Training in the National Incident Management System
Free Video Podcast on Targeted Acts of Violence in Schools Clarifies “Active Shooter” Incidents on 09/21/2012
Free School Safety Video Podcast Explores Targeted Acts of School Violence
Unreliable Data can Produce Poor Decisions on 09/20/2012
Military History book has direct implications for important points about barriers to reporting of school crime and disciplinary incidents.
Bomb Threat Protocols for Schools Should Provide a Range of Options to Reduce Disruption as well as the Risk of Mass Casualty Loss of Life on 09/19/2012
Free Topical Paper on School Bomb Threat Management can help school and public safety officials more effectively and safely address school bomb threats
Big Walnut Schools in Ohio Work to Prevent Bullying on 09/19/2012
It was truly and honor and a priviledge to be able to present on bullying prevention at Big Walnut Schools in Sunbury, Ohio this week.
A Helpful Book for School Crisis Planning – Sharpening the Warrior’s Edge – The Psychology and Science of Training on 09/15/2012
Bruce Siddle has performed considerable research in the field of human factors and is an expert on h...
Texas Schools Move Forward to Improve student Safety with Student Identification Tracking Devices in Spite of Protests of a Few on 09/13/2012
Two Texas School Districts Have Implemented Student Tracking Systems to Reduce Truancy, Improve Safety and Increase Funding in Spite of Protests of a Few People
Free School Safety Video Podcast - Lockdown Options on 09/13/2012
Safe Havens Video has posted another free school safety video podcast focused on school lockdowns. ...
Free Fact Sheet on Bullying From the Centers for Disease Control on 09/12/2012
The CDC has a free fact sheet that provides information on bullying. This free resource may be hel...
Our Thoughts and Prayers go out to those who lost Loved Ones on September 11, 2001 on 09/11/2012
Our thoughts and our prayers go out to those who lost loved ones on September 11, 2001.
Free Ask Safe Havens Video Podcast – What is a Targeted Act of Violence? on 09/10/2012
This free school safety training video podcast helps the viewer to understand what a targeted act of violence is in comparison to much more common types of school shootings and weapons assaults
The Gift of Fear by Gavin Debecker Contains Concepts that can Help us Better Train School Employees to Spot Dangerous People on 09/08/2012
The classic bestseller by Gavin DeBecker The Gift of Fear and Other Survival Signals That Protect us...
Another Free Resource on School Safety Design from the American Clearinghouse for Educational Facilities on 09/08/2012
The American Clearinghouse on Educational Facilities is funded by the United States Department of Education to provide resources for K12 and higher education facilities design. Last year, I recorded some audio and video podcasts for the clearinghouse. The podcast Designing Safer and More Effective Schools incorporates concepts that I use when presenting on safe school design for architects, schools, and public safety officials.
This Free Ask Safe Havens Video Podcast Focuses on Ways Schools can Utilize Social Media on 09/07/2012
This free one minute video poddcast featuring Chris Dorn explores positive ways schools can harness the power of social media
New Jersey Educator With Impressive Reputation Accused of Molesting Student on 09/05/2012
New Jersey Teacher Erica DePalo Accused of Molesting 15-Year-Old Student After Being Recognized as One of the Best Teachers in the State
Students and Staff in Tuscaloosa, Alabama Taught to Attack an Active Shooter as a Last Resort on 09/04/2012
According to a report by the Tuscaloosa News, school officials and students in Tuscaloosa, Alabama ...
Ask Safe Havens Are There Ways to Prevent School Shootings? on 09/03/2012
We have posted a short video podcast in the Ask Safe Havens series. The topic for this podcast is ...
Jane’s Crisis Communications Handbook is a Helpful Reference for School Safety Personnel who Interact with the Media After Emergency Situations on 09/01/2012
Jane’s is without question the most detail oriented publisher I have ever worked with. When they selected me to head up their school safety consulting projects, my manager told me bluntly that if I was ever publically wrong – once - I would be fired. He explained that the company aggressively protects its stellar reputation for absolute accuracy.
100-Year-Old Man Hits 11 with car at Los Angeles Elementary School on 08/31/2012
100-Year-Old Driver hits 11 students with car at Los Angeles Elementary Schools.
Waukegan Illinois Public Schools Make Great use of their REMS Project Grant on 08/28/2012
We were pleased to be selected to work on the Readiness and Emergency Schools grant for Waukegan Public Schools in Illinois. The district accomplished a great deal for the size of their grant including: -Training for several thousand staff members -Schools safety, security and emergency preparedness assessments for all schools -Developing an internal team that was trained to conduct annual school safety, security and emergency preparedness assessments -Completing a number of custom school safety training videos and web courses -Completely new emergency plan components for building administrators, teachers, custodians, school bus drivers, front office staff and a new after-hours emergency chart -A series of tabletop, functional and full-scale exercises This district accomplished a great deal with its REMS grant and we were proud to be able to work with their dedicated planning team.
Free Video Podcast on the Importance of School Safety Assessments on 08/27/2012
In this edition of Ask Safe Havens, we outline some of the benefits of conducting school safety, sec...
Normal Accidents – Living with High-Risk Technologies Provides Some Interesting Insights about Preventing Disasters in Complex Organizations on 08/25/2012
Normal Accidents – Living with High-Risk Technologies by Charles Perrow provides some helpful insi...
Free School Safety Video Podcast Focuses on the Importance of Student Supervision on 08/22/2012
Safe Havens has done considerable work in the area of helping school officials evaluate and improve ...
Chris Dorn Presents to School Transportation Personnel in California on 08/21/2012
Chris Dorn presented on school bus security and emergency preparedness today at the CASTO Region 18 workshop in Eureka, California.
Student Supervision is Often a Key Issue in School Safety Litigation on 08/21/2012
$8 million dollar settlement involves suit allegding inadequate student supervision
Free School Safety Video Podcast on the Importance of Mental Simulation in Effective School Crisis Planning on 08/20/2012
The Safe Havens International Video crew has produced a free concise video podcast on the proven concept of mental simulation to help school employees practice and prepare for a wide range of school crisis situations. Mental simulation has been utilized by law enforcement, military, emergency medical personnel as well as in the commercial aviation industry as a tool to improve human performance under life and death conditions for decades. Safe Havens began offering training in mental simulation techniques to school personnel 8-10 years ago and released a training and evaluation toolkit – The First 30 Seconds for school based personnel earlier this year.
School Violence Threat Management by Dr. Kris Mohandie is a Valuable Resource for Those who are Interested in Student Threat Assessment on 08/18/2012
The Indiana School Safety Specialists Academy issues School Violence Threat Management a Practical Guide for Educators, Law Enforcement, and Mental Health Professionals in the academies’ courses. I found this book to be very helpful even though I have been teaching student threat assessment since the mid 1990s. Dr.
Free School Safety Video Podcast - Ask Safe Havens – Why are School Safety Assessments so Important? on 08/17/2012
This segment of the Ask Safe Havens series addresses the value of regular school safety, security, c...
Free Video Podcast – How School Safety, Security and Emergency Preparedness Affect School Climate, Culture and Academic Achievement on 08/16/2012
Free School Safety Video podcast discusses how school safety, security and emergency preparedness affects school climate, culture and academic achievement.
Lawsuit against New Jersey School System for “Bizarre” Behavior of School Administrator Suggests that Attempts to cover-up school incidents can be Very Problematic on 08/15/2012
Fox News is reporting that a New Jersey school district settled a civil suit relating to alleged “...
Free Cyber Bullying Resources for Schools, Parents and Students on 08/14/2012
Stop Bullying Now is a free resource to help school officials, parents and students understand and address bullying issues including cyberbullying
A Good Read for Those Interested in Cultural Diversity and Societal Bullying - The Unwanted – A Memoir of Childhood by Kien Nguyen on 08/11/2012
I found The Unwanted - A memoir of Childhood to be an excellent book. I ran across the book by accident while at a bookstore looking for another title. Author Kien Nguyen chronicles his experiences growing up in Vietnam prior to, during and after the fall of the government of South Vietnam to the communists.
New Topical Paper – Fight, Flight or Lockdown - Teaching Students and Staff to Attack Active Shooters could Result in Decreased Casualties or Needless Deaths on 08/08/2012
Certified School Safety Specialist Steve Satterly and I began research on a paper designed to explore that benefits and the potential dangers of training school employees and students to attack an active shooter as a last resort option. The paper Fight, Flight or Lockdown - Teaching Students and Staff to Attack Active Shooters could Result in Decreased Casualties or Needless Deaths is now available at no cost on our website
Video on Designing Schools for Improved Emergency Preparedness for Special Needs Populations is Available at no cost Through the Federal Government on 08/08/2012
Free School Safety Video from the Federal Government Addresses Emergency Preparedness for Students, Staff and Visitors with Special Needs
Start of the New School Year a Good Opportunity to Revisit How Drills are Conducted on 08/08/2012
The start of a new school year is an excellent time to revisit which types of drills are conducted and how they are run
Son of slain Sikh Temple president says his father was killed while trying to stop gunman with a butter knife on 08/07/2012
The son of Satwant Singh Kaleka who was killed during Sunday’s deadly shooting at a Sikh temple in Wisconsin told reporters that FBI agents have advised him that his father was a hero who was shot and killed while attempting to stop Wade Michael Page with a butter knife. Kaleka told reporters that his father’s actions may have created a distraction which allowed several people to escape the area unharmed.
Shooting at Sikh Temple in Wisconsin Shows How Changes in the Training and Equipment of American Police Officers Can Make a Difference in Multiple Victim Shooting Incidents on 08/06/2012
At a press conference today, Oak Creek, Wisconsin Police Chief John Edwards stated that officers who were equipped with patrol rifles ended the deadly shooting spree at a Sikh temple. Unconfirmed reports also indicate that one victim may have been killed when he attempted to stop the killer by attacking him.
Columbine by Dave Cullen is the Definitive Work on the Columbine High School Attack on 08/04/2012
Dave Cullen has done a superb job in researching and writing what is currently the definitive work o...
Deadly Colorado Movie Theater Shooting Shows How Quickly Campus Organizations can Become Involved in Community Incidents on 08/03/2012
In mass casualty incidents such as major act of violence, it is not unusual for civil actions to filed against a wide array of entities who appear to have some connection to the incident. It would not be unusual for the University of Colorado to be named in litigation along with other entities such as the theater where the shooting took place.
Signs of a Global Phenomenon - Chinese Teen’s Deadly Rampage Leaves Eight Dead and Five More Wounded on 08/02/2012
In spite of the death penalty for possession of firearms and ammunition and massive efforts by gover...
Severe Weather Spotter Training - A Free and Simple Way to Save Lives on 08/02/2012
Guest Blog by Jacob Terrell, Safe Havens International Intern So many times these days, school safety measures and equipment can be a financial burden on schools and school districts. There are however, a number of FREE resources available to help make our schools safer. One such opportunity available to school personal is called “Skywarn Storm Spotter Training.
Thankfully, Stupidity is not a Defense in Court – Former Teacher is Shocked after Being Arrested when he Notified Police that he Raped Two Girls Decades ago on 08/01/2012
Former school teacher is shocked to learn that the statute of limitations will not protect him when he is arrested after confessing to raping two girls decades ago
School Officials, Law Enforcement Officers and Mental Health Professionals have Averted Many Planned Acts of Aggression at our Nation’s Schools on 08/01/2012
Arrest of California college proffessor plotting attack at high school in Irvine shows how many planned school attacks have been averted through proactive measures
SHARK! – Do our School Safety Efforts match our Real Risks? on 07/31/2012
This blog explores whether Americans tend to become overly focused on rare but compelling school safety incidents in an out of balance fashion when compared to more common and deadly school safety incidents like fatal allergic reactions to food.
Liability Language - Campus Officials Should Choose thier Words with Care on 07/30/2012
Liability language - campus officials should try to stick to provable language when making public statements abour school safety incidents
Bullying at School by Dan Olweus is still a Helpful Book on Bullying Prevention on 07/28/2012
First published back in 1993, Bullying at School by Dan Olweus though somewhat dated, is still an informative read for anyone who wants to better understand bullying and how it can be prevented. While a few school officials and at least one school safety consultant claim that bullying is not really a significant problem, researchers like Olweus have provided us with numerous peer review studies that document the problem and the need for evidence-based approaches to reduce its impact. After many years in the field, I still recommend this classic and ground-breaking book.
Compare but Contrast Safety Between Different Countries on 07/27/2012
It can be very helpful to contrast school safety measures in different countries as long as we take into account the often significant differences in life-safety codes, criminal justice systems and other significant differences.
What Messages are we Sending - Trash on the Floor on 07/25/2012
Trash on the floor and school safety, security, discipline, climate and culture
Keep School Safety Risks in Perspective on 07/24/2012
School security measures should fit the unique environments of schools
Keeping Mass Casualty Attacks in Perspective - The Tragedy in Aurora Colorado in Relation to Other Mass Casualty Schootings Around the World on 07/23/2012
There are many lessons to be learned from the deadly shooting at the movie theater in Aurora Colorado
Terrible Shooting at Century 16 Movie Theater in Aurora Colorado Will Offer Valuable Lessons for Increasing Survivability in Catastrophic Campus Crisis Situations Such as Active Shooter incidents, Terrorist Attacks, Tornadoes and Fires on 07/21/2012
As victims and families of the deadly movie theater shooting in Aurora, Colorado try to cope with the immense pain, experts accross the nation are reviewing the incident to see what lessons can be learned to help increase survivability in future crisis situations.
Superb Book on Emergency Preparedness - The Unthinkable – Who Survives When Disaster Strikes and Why on 07/21/2012
I had two different clients in the same week recommend this book to me. As both clients are really top-notch school safety practitioners, I ordered the book right away and devoured it as soon as I got it. Though the author is not an emergency manager by trade, she is an excellent researcher and writer and did a most admirable job.
Effective Metal Detection to Prevent Shootings in Movie Theaters Could Prove to be Challenging on 07/20/2012
There have been a number of mentions in the media about the use of metal detectors at movie theaters in the wake of the deadly shooting in Aurora, Colorado at a screening for the new “Batman” movie. The question being asked often relates to whether or not metal detectors would have prevented alledged aggressor Jame Holmes from carry out the attack. The facts of the case are still based on media accounts and are thus may not prove to be accurate once the investigation is completed.
Shooting incident at Colorado “Batman” Movie Screening Highlights the Importance of Training in Visual Weapons Screening and Pattern Matching and Recognition for Schools on 07/20/2012
The deadly shooting at a screening for the movie “Batman” at the Century 16 movie theater in Aur...
Schools Should Set and Enforce Clear Expectations on School Crime and Discipline Reporting on 07/19/2012
Though it is often not easy, school officials should develop and enforce reporting procedures for criminal and disciplianary incidents
Never Say “I’m just a custodian” on 07/18/2012
School custodians can play a critical role in improving school safety, security, climate, culture and emergency preparedness
Useful FEMA Report Concerning School Safety on 07/16/2012
FEMA document School Fires - Topical Fire Research Series is still a very helpful document for school safety practitioners
Grisly Murder of Three Children in Wisconsin Should be a Stark Reminder that Acts of Violence in Society Have Implications for School Access Control, Visitor Management and Student Sign-out Protocols on 07/16/2012
We have ample evidence that students and staff in schools with poor access control, visitor sign in procedures and student sign out protocols are at increased risk. Here are just a few examples of the types of cases we see relating to these areas: A daughter of the owner of a prominent pasta maker was abducted from a Florida independent school by a man posing as his bodyguard who signed the student out for a dental appointment. He and an accomplice were arrested by FBI agents after they demanded a one million dollar ransom.
The World is Flat Provides a Valuable Perspective about the Rapid Changes in the World Around us on 07/14/2012
A few years ago, I was asked to speak at a school district convocation in Avon, Massachusetts. The...
Another Great Read – On Combat – The Psychology and Physiology of Deadly Conflict in War and Peace on 07/14/2012
This excellent book is a must read for public safety, military and other personnel who want to bette...
Why Blocked Access Fire Drills are so Helpful in Improving School Emergency Preparedness on 07/13/2012
I will never forget the first time I observed a blocked access drill. We were working with a schoo...
Documenting Student Supervision Measures on 07/12/2012
One issue that arises in many school safety incidents is student supervision. Whether or not schoo...
School Safety Incidents can Have a Dramatic Impact on School System Budgets on 07/11/2012
While we often think of the fiscal cost of school safety incidents in terms of workers compensation ...
Additional Lawsuits Related to Sexual Molestation Filed Against Los Angeles Unified School Teacher and Administrator on 07/10/2012
Additional lawsuits relating to sexual molestations by a former teacher were file against the L.A. Unified School System
Save Money and Save Lives by Properly Documenting Your School Safety Training Efforts on 07/10/2012
Properly documenting school safety training can reduce exposure to civil liability and more importantly can reduce the chances of injury or death on campus
ACLU often Targets Schools When they Try Innovative Approaches to Safety, Security, Discipline, Climate and Culture on 07/09/2012
ACLU Often Pressures School Officials for thier Efforts to Improve Safety, Security, Climate and Culture.
Careful With The Cameras! Texas Principal Indicted by a Grand Jury in Relation to Hidden Camera Video in School Locker Room on 07/06/2012
Texas School Superintendent Indicted by Grand Jury for School Locker Video Taping Incident
Pennsylvania Troopers Search for Body of seven-year-old Girl from Florida who Disappeared while Walking to School Nearly Three Decades ago on 07/06/2012
Pennsylvania State police are conducting a search to try to recover the remains of a girl that was l...
Campus Safety Magazine Publishes an Article titled Hiring an Expert Witness – 10 Questions You Should Ask on 07/05/2012
I submitted an article last week to Campus Safety that was published on the topic of campus safety forensic expert selection. The article, Hiring an Expert Witness – 10 Questions You Should ask is designed to be helpful to readers whose organizations are being litigated for school safety issues. I have been working with an attorney on a much more detailed white paper on this same topic as expert witness selection can be critical to how effectively a case is resolved.
We Should not take Freedom for Granted in our Schools on 07/04/2012
Today is an excellent time to reflect on the amazing and truly unprecedented level of freedom that our citizens enjoy. In his excellent course A History of Freedom published by the Teaching Company, Dr. Rufus Fears makes a strong case that at no point in world history has any society offered the level of personal freedom of that in the United States.
School Crisis Plans Should Address Utility Failure on 07/03/2012
Recent power outages have left more than 1.8 million still without power. This has implications for school crisis planning.
Gun and Bomb Detection Dogs can Help Make Schools Safer on 07/02/2012
Gun and bomb detection dogs can help make schools safer.
Brutal Church Attack in Kenya Leaves 15 Dead and another 40 Wounded on 07/01/2012
15 people killed and 40 wounded in deadly attack on a church in Nairobi, Kenya
Life and Death Matters - Why it is Important to Properly Maintain School Fire Alarm Systems on 07/01/2012
The proper maintenance and testing of school fire detection and warning systems is a life and death matter
Another Great Read Relating to School Violence - On Killing – The Psychological Cost of Learning to Kill in War and Society on 06/30/2012
Another book that I recommend to those who wish to better understand school violence and violence in...
Quantifying School Safety on 06/29/2012
School officials should collect, track and analyze data to more effectively address school safety and security risks
No Room for “Yes Men” in Critical Decision Making on 06/28/2012
While reading Masters and Commanders – How Four Titans Won the War in the West, 1941-1945 by Andre...
Study by the Commonwealth Foundation finds that Students at Low Performing Schools are more Likely to be Victims of Violent Crime at School on 06/27/2012
According to CBS in Philadelphia, a recent study by the Commonwealth Foundation asserts that students who attend low performing schools in Pennsylvania are five times more likely to be a victim of violent crime while at school. This finding should not be a surprise to us as lower performing schools are also often schools that have serious problems with student discipline, bullying and criminal acts committed by students against students.
Sources of Power – An Excellent Book to Help us Understand How the Human Mind Works Under Life and Death Stress on 06/23/2012
Dr. Gary Klein is a highly regarded researcher who has performed ground-breaking work that helps us ...
Concerned People Donate Half a Million to Show Support for School Bus Monitor Karen Klein After she was Brutally Bullied by New York Middle School Students on 06/22/2012
Strangers provide overwhelming support for bullied school bus monitor in New York
Blocked Emergency Exit? on 06/22/2012
[caption id="attachment_3379" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="I took this photo at an outdo...
Treatment of School Bus Monitor by Middle School Students is a Disturbing Example of What Happens When School Discipline Breaks Down on 06/21/2012
Conduct of Athena Middle School Students in New York Towards School Bus Monitor is Truly a Tragedy
Documenting School Safety Efforts can be Critical on 06/20/2012
Good School Safety Documentation can be Critical for School Safety Related Court Proceedings
North Carolina “Strip Search” Case Demonstrates the Need to Train School Officials on Search and Seizure on 06/19/2012
North Carolina School Administrator Alledgedly Strip Searches a Ten-Year-Old Student Looking for Missing $20 Bill
Media Coverage Relating to Allegations of Serious School Employee Conduct are Sometimes Incomplete Due to Limitations on how School Officials can Respond on 06/18/2012
Allegations that School Employees made a Student Strip Naked and Take a Shower May or May not Have Merit.
Schools Lose Increasing Number of African-American Students to Home-schooling, Safety and School Discipline Often Cited as Reasons for Parental Choice on 06/17/2012
African-American students now comprise the fastest-growing segment of home-school attendees. There...
Is this really ADA Accessible? on 06/16/2012
[caption id="attachment_3374" align="aligncenter" width="224" caption="How easily could a person in ...
British School Criticized for Alleged Under-reaction to Stabbing of 26 Students with a Needle on 06/15/2012
Some parents and students from the Toots School in Bingham, Notts are upset that a student who alleg...
Do Your Practices Match Your School Safety Plans? on 06/15/2012
One important aspect of school safety is how closely the written policies, procedures and plans reflect what is actually taking place in schools. For example, a school safety incident is more likely to occur if good procedures are not followed. This means that students, staff or visitors are more likely to be hurt.
Wearing Staff Identification Cards Taken to a New Level on 06/14/2012
[caption id="attachment_3363" align="aligncenter" width="225" caption="I found this to be a rather h...
Providing School Safety and Security Notifications in Multiple Languages on 06/13/2012
[caption id="attachment_3298" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="School safety and security ca...
Heroes Among us - Dr. Tina Brookes on 06/12/2012
She doesn’t have the cleanest car in town. Her unrelenting schedule doesn’t really afford her the time to tidy it up like she should and probably desires. Though she is not poor, she also doesn’t own the fanciest home in town.
Schools Should Have Crisis Plans in Place for Field Trips and Study Abroad Programs on 06/11/2012
School Crisis plans should help address crisis situations on field trips
Know What You Don't Know - An Excellent Book for People Who Want to Learn More About Crisis Prevention on 06/11/2012
I found Know What You Don't Know - How Great Leaders Prevent Problems Before They Happen to be an excellent book. Written by Dr. Michael A.
The Teaching Company Offers Great Courses – A Great Way to Learn if You are Too Busy for College on 06/10/2012
I would love to work on a Ph.D. Some truly outstanding teachers and college professors have succeeded in shaping me into what they referred to as a lifetime learner.
Take Time out to Enjoy the Wonders of Nature that Surround us on 06/09/2012
[caption id="attachment_3067" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Glacier Bay in Alaska is one ...
Video Podcasts Can Boost Attendance at School Safety and Other Professional Conferences on 06/08/2012
For about five years now, Safe Havens Video has been producing 2-5 minute video podcasts to help boo...
Minnesota School Officials Criticized for Banning Students from Wearing Rosary Beads on 06/07/2012
School officials often criticized for their efforts to prevent gang violence by banning student jewelry
Disruptive Behavior at Graduation Ceremonies has Been a Significant Problem for Schools and Universities for Many Years on 06/07/2012
School officials struggle to find viable solutions to disruptive and unruly people at graduation ceremonies
Basing Lockdown Protocols on Inside Versus Outside Threats Could be Dangerous on 06/06/2012
Assessments have shown that the inside/outside approach to school lockdowns can be very dangerous and unreliable
False Promises of School Security Can Result in Liability Exposure on 06/05/2012
The used of fake secuirty cameras can create a false sense of security and can create increased exposure to civil liablity for school officials.
Quality Over Speed When Developing or Revising School Crisis Plans on 06/04/2012
Quality over speed is important when developing school crisis plans
Reports of Student Suicides Related to Bullying Should Make us Consider How we Address Bullying and the Threat of Suicide on 06/01/2012
The relationship between student suicide and school bullying is sometimes not accurately portrayed in the media
Parent Pleads Guilty After Arrest for Abandoning Daughter at a Mall Because of Bad Grades on 06/01/2012
This photograph taken by the author in Quinhon, Vietnam depicts several thousand Vietnamese parents, aunts, uncles, grandparents and other family members waiting in the heat for most of a day while their students sit for college entrance exams. As the test results will not be available for about two weeks, their presence is to demonstrate to the students that education is important and that their family supports their efforts. 47-year-old Tuan Huynh plead guilty to a charge of child endangerment yesterday.
Will Unintended Consequences Follow now that the Judge has Dropped the Charges and Offered to Clear Record in Diane Tran Case on 05/31/2012
Under intense public pressure,
Terrorists Targeting School Children are Ruthless on 05/31/2012
Since one of the first attacks by Terrorists when Yassar Arafat orchestrated an attack on an Israeli school bus using a land mine in 1948, terrorists groups have periodically specifically targeted innocent school children around the world for their attacks. In a recent series of attacks, terrorists in Afghanistan have injured nearly 300 girls and their teachers by contaminating school facilities with poisons. These vicious and tragic attacks appear to be designed to interrupt the process of educating girls which has been a goal of many terrorists in the region.
Girl Graduates Early From High School and is Shot and Killed Near Her Home on 05/31/2012
Tragic Shooting in Tulsa, Oklahoma leaves girl dead one day after she graduated from high school one year early
Crash Leaving Nine Injured Near California High School Shows Just how fast a Multi-Casualty Event Can Occur on 05/30/2012
Crash with nine injured near California High School Shows Need for School Mass Casualty Incident Planning
Thousands of Dollars Donated for Texas Student Arrested for Truancy on 05/30/2012
More than $70,000 has been donated from accross the United States and 13 countries to assist Diane Tran who was jailed after she failed to comply with a court order issued by a probate court judge in Texas
Arrest of Texas Honor Student Diane Tran for Disobeying Judge’s Orders Raises Questions on 05/30/2012
Judge's decision to incarcerate truant honors student draws much controversy
Recent Missing Student Case Illustrates the Problem with Student Walk Offs from Schools on 05/29/2012
Student walk off from schools more common than many people think
God Bless our Fallen Military Personnel on 05/28/2012
God bless our fallen military personnel
We Owe our Fallen Troops a Great Deal on 05/27/2012
All Americans should be deeply grateful for the sacrifices of our military personnel
Violence involving Firearms not Unique to American Schools and Communities on 05/26/2012
Weapons violence has been a problem at schools in Canada, England, Japan, China, Vietnam, South Africa, Israel, Brazil, Mexico and many other countries
Bullying Prevention as Part of the Big Picture of School Safety on 05/26/2012
Many schools still lack appropriate approaches to bullying prevention
Shooting Outside of Chapel Hill North Carolina Elementary School Demonstrates how Violent Crime can Impact Elementary Schools on 05/25/2012
Shooting outside of Mary Scroggins Elementary School in North Carolina
Excellent Article by Steve Satterly on School Disaster Recovery Planning on 05/25/2012
Article on School Disaster Recovery by Steve Satterly makes the cover of School Planning and Management Magazine.
Avoid Needless School Safety Liability – Properly Follow Through on School Safety Assessment and Plan Development Projects on 05/24/2012
The exposure to school safety litigation can be increased when school officials do not properly follow through on school safety assessment and school crisis planning projects
Media Driven School Safety Culture on 05/23/2012
School safety efforts in the United States are often heavily driven by media accounts of school safety incidents
Keeping Perspective in School Safety Planning on 05/22/2012
Campus employees should be ready to think and act quickly to respond to a wide array of crisis situations.
Don’t Fight the way the human brain works on 05/18/2012
One of the problems we see a lot with school safety planning is the use of crisis planning concepts that are designed in a manner that is in opposition to how the human brain functions under life and death stress.
Words and Tone Speak Volumes on 05/17/2012
Showing respect to others by our words and our tone of voice is a powerful way to show people that we want them to succeed because we care.
Stop Bullying Now is an Excellent Free School Safety Resource from the U.S. Government on 05/16/2012
Stop Bullying Now is a great free resource from the federal government as one part of a strategy to address the problem of bullying in our schools.
A Valuable Tool – Creating A Culture of School Safety on 05/15/2012
There are so many ways to make schools safer that are no-cost and low-cost approaches.
Codes Can Kill – Update on Why the Use of Codes in School Crisis Plans Can Cause Death and Serious Injury on 05/14/2012
This approach has failed in numerous actual crisis events at schools and fails badly when we conduct crisis simulations in one-on-one settings to test how well staff can react to high stress situations.
Student Bullying Presentations are a Blast on 05/13/2012
Student bullying presentations a blast and an inspiration.
Are the Right Employees Getting the Word on Life-Saving Action Steps for School Crisis Situations? on 05/10/2012
Taking the time to verify that employees are provided the information they need to enable them to perform the action steps they are expected to perform is a wise investment of time and could easily save a life one day.
Use Caution When Performing School Security Assessments and Other Types of Work After Hours on 05/09/2012
Use Caution when performing safety assessments and other types of work after hours at schools
Arrests for Theft of PTA and School Funds an Unpleasant Reality on 05/08/2012
Police investigage missing PTA funds in Indiana
Many Good People Out There Trying to Help Students Succeed. on 05/07/2012
There are many good people out there working hard to educate students
FEMA Offers Live and Web-Based School Emergency Preparedness Training for Free on 05/04/2012
While many people in the field of education are aware, we regularly run into school and public safety officials who do not realize that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) offers many excellent training opportunities relating to school safety at no cost.
Great New Book on School Crisis Recovery - Reclaiming School in the Aftermath of Trauma – Advice Based on Experience on 05/03/2012
Great new book on school mental health recovery adds Insight into school safety issues.
Students Trying to Deal with Grief Relating to Teacher’s Murder in the Community Illustrates Situations School Officials Must Address on 05/02/2012
School mental health professionals help students recover from teacher's murder at her home in Connersville, Indiana
Codes can Kill on 05/02/2012
The use of codes for school emergency preparedness can prove to be a dangerous and unreliable approach to school safety.
Missing Massachusetts Toddler Found in Dark Classroom on 05/02/2012
A missing three year old was found in her classroom after a search in Westport Massachussetts. Police are investigation to see how the child was left in the room at the end of the day
Gun found in Toronto school on 05/01/2012
There is no research to show a correlation between security cameras and reductions in school weapons violence.
Michigan State Police Work to Enhance School Emergency Preparedness on 04/30/2012
I was privileged to have the opportunity to keynote the Michigan State Police for a series of three one-day conferences across the state last week.
Stakeholders for School Safety – Presenting for the Michigan State Police on 04/30/2012
The Michigan State Police work diligently to provide emergency management training and support to Michigan schools and is currently using a FEMA grant to provide STEP training at no cost to Michigan students
New edition of our newsletter available now on 04/27/2012
Get the latest issue of our newsletter The Safety Net now: goo.gl/rRqWJ
How to select a School Safety Consultant or Expert Witness on 04/26/2012
Taking the time to conduct due diligence when evaluating school safety experts can save a money, time and perhaps even lives.
Student supervision during field trips is important on 04/25/2012
Student supervision is one of the most fundamental and important aspects of school safety for K12 schools.
School Safety is a Global Issue on 04/24/2012
Though we often focus on school safety issues in our own country and our primary issues are sometimes different from those in other regions, there are sometimes more similarities than differences when it comes to the need for school safety strategies and effective emergency preparedness measures in schools anywhere in the world.
Instances of Students Being Handcuffed and Arrested for Incidents at School Often Presented Out of Context on 04/23/2012
The current dialogue relating to the use of arrest and restraint by police in schools is a valid discussion and there is room for improvements in the field - but taking the time to look beyond the headlines with an understanding that this is a complex as well as troubling societal problem can go a long way towards successfully working towards improved approaches.
Avoiding a Damaging Loss of Trust in the School Safety Arena on 04/21/2012
Taking the time and expending the sometimes-significant effort to build bridges instead of fences between people, departments and organizations can prevent not only a good tar and feathering, but can avert considerable pain and suffering as well.
Columbine 13 Years Later on 04/20/2012
On the 13th anniversary of the Columbine school tragedy, the events of that day remain as present as they did back in 1999. A new documentary by a student who was at Columbine High School on the day of the shooting reminds us that basic preparedness and crisis stress management are critical if we want to be ready for any level of crisis.
Do your practices match your procedures? on 04/18/2012
Avoiding Tragedy and Litigation - Do your practices match your procedures?
Failing to follow logic...
Who Should Make The 911 call? on 04/18/2012
Who Should Make The 911 call?
CHICOPEE – A hero who calmed a dangerous situation and protected young children on 04/14/2012
School Crossing Gaurd Hailed as Hero by Police and School Officials in Chicopee, MA
Fayette County Kentucky Student Disciplined for Accessing Information on School Violence on Web Site on 04/13/2012
School officials in Fayetteville Kentucky Notify Parents that a Student has been Disciplined for Accessing Information on School Violence on the web
School Bus Driver Refuses to Return School Bus After He Was Terminated on 04/12/2012
School bus driver arrested after refusing to turn over school bus when he was terminated
Former Private School Teacher Takes Bin Laden’s Place on FBI’s Ten Most Wanted List - This Case Has Serious Implications for School Safety and School Security on 04/10/2012
Former Private School Teacher Added to FBI Most Wanted List
Teacher Arrested for Using Students to Sell Drugs on 04/10/2012
Teacher arrested for using students to sell drugs
Three Adults Killed in Shooting at in - home Day Care Center on 04/09/2012
Three Adults were killed in a shooting at an in - home day care center
Is your School Staff Trained to Spot Tornadoes? on 04/09/2012
Are School Officials Trained to Spot Tornadoes?
Teacher Slightly Injured in Shooting near Crawford Elementary School in Russellville, Arkansas on 04/09/2012
Teacher Injured in Shooting near School
Man Shot and Killed on Elementary School Playground in Canada on 04/09/2012
Man Shot and Killed on Playground at Elementary School in Canada
Six Gang Members Charged with Fatal Shooting of A 14-Year-Old Boy in Front of Middle School in Union City, California in 2007 on 04/08/2012
Violence in School Safety Zones is a Significant Issue for Many Schools
Guns in Schools Pose Challenges to Educators, Students and Parents on 04/07/2012
Common myths about school safety, school shootings, bullying, schools and terrorism and other school violence topics
Loaded Gun Found in Student Locker Causes Concern and Raises Questions About Metal Detectors in Schools on 04/07/2012
Gun in school raises questions about metal detectors in schools
Easter Egg Hunt Safety Concerns Have Significant Implications for School Safety on 04/07/2012
Easter Egg Hunt Safety Concerns Have Significant Implications for School Safety
Alert bystander interrupts attempted kidnapping and rape of student on – Suspect Convicted of Assaults on Five School Aged Girls on 04/07/2012
Man Interrupt in Attempt to Abduct a Fifteen Year - Old - Girl at School
Congressman Bruce Braley Proposes National School Bus Ticketing Legislation on 04/04/2012
Kadyn's Act Proposed to Reduce Student Deaths
Gun Control not a Core Issue for School Shootings on 04/03/2012
At the same time, I am not convinced that students carrying concealed firearms to class will have a statistical impact on the homicide rate in our colleges and universities either.
Police Say Gunman at Oakland, California School Opened Fire when Students Failed to Comply With His Instructions on 04/03/2012
Police sauy former student opened fire when classroom occupants fail to comply with his demands
Details Sketchy Regarding Shooting at Oikos University in Oakland, California on 04/02/2012
Six confirmed dead in Shooting at Oikos University in Oakland California
California School Bus Drivers, Supervisors and Directors Very Focused on School Bus Safety on 03/31/2012
I had a wonderful time doing a keynote and two breakout sessions for the California Association of School Transportation Officials today in Sacramento.
School Officials Criticized for Decision not to Evacuate School After Bomb Threat in Killeen, Texas – Shows Lack of Understanding of Bomb Threat Procedures by the General Public on 03/30/2012
Parents in Killeen Texas upset to learn that a school was not evacuated for a bomb threat
Two Glynn County, Georgia School District Police Officers Recognized for Acts of Valor on 03/30/2012
Glynn County Georgia School District Police Officers Recognized for Acts of Valor
Suspect Arrested After School Shooting in Finland on 03/30/2012
A man who shot another person in the hand apparently entered a local school in Tempere, Finland and ...
Video with Audio from School bus Security Camera Depicts Henryville, Indiana School Bus Driver as Calm and Collected Under Life and Death Stress on 03/30/2012
School Transportation Director Steve Satterly from Indiana sent me a link to a video clip depicting school buses being devastated by tornadoes on Henryville, Indiana. Steve is becoming quite an authority on school and school bus tornado preparedness as mentioned in previous blogs. He toured the damaged schools in Henryville shortly after the storm hit and took photographs of the schools and damaged buses.
Indiana School District Provides Enhanced Emergency Training for School Bus Drivers on 03/29/2012
School Bus Fleet Magazine ran a feature article in the last issue about Indiana School Safety Specia...
Attempted Abduction of 10-Year-Old Boy in New Zealand School a Close Call on 03/29/2012
A ten year old boy in New Zealand had a close call during an attempted abduction
School Bus Shot by BBs in Burlington Kentucky During Route on 03/29/2012
A student was arrested for shooting out a school bus window with BB's in Boone County Kentucky
Man Takes 19 Students and School Bus Driver Hostage and is Captured by Police on 03/29/2012
A man was arrested after he took a Henry County School bus Driver and 19 Students Hostage
Student Disappearance Raises questions about how schools should notify parents that students are absent from school on 03/29/2012
Abduction of student raises questions about how schools notify parents when students are absent
16-Year-Old Student hit by Van While Crossing Street to get to School in Brockton, Massachusetts on 03/29/2012
16 Year old Student Hit by van on the way to School in Brockton, MA
School Buses Damaged by Tornado in Henryville, IN may not be Fully Covered by Insurance on 03/25/2012
The owner of two school buses utilized to transport students to school in Henryville, IN stated that her insurance carrier had offered far less than the buses were worth
Student Shot and Killed at Mississippi State University on 03/25/2012
A 21 year old student was shot and killed at Mississippi State University
Indiana School Safety Specialist Steve Satterly Exhaustively Researches School Tornado Preparedness on 03/23/2012
I finally had time to read an article about a tornado that was photographed on Mars. I normally don...
Concerns for Possible School Violence in Charlotte-Mecklenburg Show how Community Gang Issues Frequently Impact School Safety on 03/23/2012
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police gang unit officers and area school officials are working to address concerns relating to a fatal shooting of 17-year-old John Derrell Kempson Jr. who was shot and killed on Saturday night. The victim was a student at Vance High School and police are concerned about the level of social media chatter regarding possible gang violence in wake of the murder.
Police Investigation in Nobleville, Indiana Confirms that Students had Sexual Intercourse on School Bus on 03/22/2012
Noblesville, Indiana Police have concluded an investigation into a February incident where an 8-year-old girl and a 13-year-old boy had sexual intercourse on a school bus. Police stated that the incident was captured on a security camera but not detected by the school bus driver and a driver’s aid because they could not see the incident due to the height of the school bus seats. The children, who both attended the Indiana School for the Deaf were transported to and from school by a school bus operated by Noblesville Schools.
Suspect in Terrorist Attack on Jewish School in France Killed in Shootout with Police on 03/22/2012
Mohamed Merah was shot as he jumped out of a window during a gun battle with police after a 32 - hou...
Spring Rise in School Bomb Threats a Good Reason to Review Bomb Threat Protocols on 03/22/2012
Many schools receive bomb threats each Spring making it a good time to re visit bomb threat protocols
Fifteen Year old Girl Arrested for Shooting at School Bus in Athens, Georgia on 03/21/2012
15 Year old girl arrested for shooting at a school bus in Athens GA
What Does “Best Possible Shelter” Mean for School Tornado Sheltering? on 03/21/2012
What does "best possible shelter mean for school tornado sheltering?
Clark County, Nevada School District Has a World Class School Crisis Recovery Team on 03/21/2012
Clark County Nevada School District Has a World Class School Crisis Mental Health Recovery Team
Many School Officials Re-evaluating Tornado Procedures and Sheltering Locations on 03/21/2012
Tornado strikes on schools and communities have many school and public safety officials re-evaluatin...
Sex Abuse Investigation in Bend, Oregon Charter School Demonstrates Problems with Student/Staff Texting on 03/21/2012
Sex abuse case at Redmond Proficiency Academy in Bend Oregon involved texting between a student and an educator
North Carolina High School Student Has Throat Slashed with Scalpel in Attack on 03/20/2012
Student has Throat Slashed During an Attack at Southern Nash High School in North Carolina
School Bus Crash in India Kills 16 school Children on 03/20/2012
School bus crash in Andhra Pradesh, India kills 16 school children
Stop Bullying Now is a Great Free Resource for Schools on 03/20/2012
Stop Bullying Now is an excellent free bullying prevention tool for schools
Update on Toulouse School Attack - Guest blog by Chris Dorn on 03/19/2012
I'd like to provide a bit of context for the school attack that happened in Toulouse, France this mo...
Gunman on Motorcycle Kills four in Shooting at a Jewish School in Toulouse, France on 03/19/2012
Gunman on moped opens fire killing three students and one teacher at French school
28 killed and 28 injured in school bus field trip in Switzerland on 03/15/2012
28 students and adults were killed and another 28 injured in a field trip bus crash in Switzerland
Multiple Victim Stabbing at Miami-Jacobs Career College Demonstrates the need for Schools to Take Edged Weapons Assaults Seriously on 03/15/2012
A man armed with multiple knifes walked into the admissions office of the Miami – Jacobs Career College in Columbus, Ohio and stabbed a person. At that point, bystanders attempted to subdue and disarm the man who then responded by producing an additional edged weapon. By the time responding police shot the man, four people had been injured, three of them critically.
Can a Hacker Gain Access to Security Camera Feed, Alarm System Controls or Student Information through your Smart Phones? on 03/15/2012
hackers and cyber criminials can sometimes access sensitive information by hacking smart phones used by school officials
on 03/14/2012
Safe Havens International releases new training and evaluation videos
15 Reported Injuries in Pennsylvania School Bus Crash on 03/14/2012
15 reported injured in PA school bus crash
Gunmen Attack School Bus in Ethiopia Killing 17 on 03/14/2012
School bus attack in Ethiopia leaves 17 students dead
Student Abducted from School in the United Kingdom on 03/14/2012
A student was forcibly abducted from her school in England by her ex-boyfriend
Disturbance in New York City High School Shows How Serious Student Disruptions can be on 03/14/2012
Out of control students at Murry Bergrtram High School in New York City demonstrate how distruptive student disturbances can be.
Fatalities from School Shootings Down, Lower Level Aggression Appears to be Increasing on 03/13/2012
Schools should address lower level aggression to improve school safety, climate and culture
Are Your School Employees Properly Empowered to Improve School Safety? on 03/12/2012
Empowering school employees to improve school safety, security and emergency preparedness
Easy, Inexpensive and Effective – Improve Student Supervision to Enhance School Safety on 03/12/2012
Improving student supervision is one of the most effective ways to improve school safety
Protect Yourself so You can Protect Others – A Critical School Safety Concept on 03/12/2012
School employees should be trained to take action to protect themselves first in school crisis situations so they can better protect others
Carefully Define your Scope of Work for School Safety Assessment Projects on 03/10/2012
School officials should properly defined the scope of work when bidding out projects for school safety projects to prevent problems later
Use Caution When Making Public Statements after a Safety Incident Occurs on 03/09/2012
Use caution when making public statements relating to school safety incients
Tribute to a Life Well Lived and Well Taught on 03/09/2012
I attended a memorial service yesterday for a relative who died after a long and hard fought battle ...
School Shooting at Episcopal High School in Jacksonville Reminds us that Violence can happen at Public, Private, Parochial, Charter and Independent Schools on 03/07/2012
Non-public schools are also sometimes the scene of school violence, school shootings and other school crisis situations
Recent Tornado Strikes Provide Clear Evidence that Schools Should Focus Appropriately on Tornado Preparedness on 03/04/2012
Schools should conduct tornado sheltering drills and many schools still do not conduct them regularly
Good School Safety, Security and Crisis Planning Ideas Abound on 03/02/2012
This blog discusses how school officials can learn from one another to spread practical school safety, security and emergency preparedness concepts
Do we have good “people detectors” in our schools? on 02/29/2012
Close connections between staff and students can help to prevent school shootings
Role Specific School Crisis Planning can be a Life Saver on 02/29/2012
Role specific school crisis planning can be a valuable tool to help school employees utilize the powerful concept of mental simulation to better prepare them to safe human life
New School Safety Training and Evaluation System Makes Every Second Count on 02/28/2012
New school crisis planning evaluation and staff development school safety training videos
School Shooting in Chardon, Ohio Reminds us of Critical Aspects of School Shooting Incidents on 02/27/2012
Shooting at high school in Chardon, Ohio demonstrates importance of drills and preventive measures for schools
Building Experience to Improve<br>Crisis Decision Making on 01/20/2012
How campus employees will perform under extreme stress and time pressure in various physical settings and situations will depend on a variety of factors, including the depth and breadth of simulations requiring them to make decisions on an individual basis.
Reverse Evacuation – A Life or Death Protocol on 01/20/2012
Reverse evacuation protocols for schools can be a life saving school crisis plan concept
Our goal for this blog on 01/19/2012
As a global non – profit pre-K – 20 school safety center, our objective is to help to make stu...
Dynamic content
Dynamic content
Case Studies
Nothing speaks to our experience and success more than the real results. Read about some of our diverse projects and hear what our clients
have to say about working with us.
Dynamic content
Share this site!
