Join us as we explore the many complex components and fundamental questions regarding school safety. We will cover the fundamentals of school safety, roles and responsibilities, expectations, emergency plans, drills and exercises, creating a comprehensive school safety program, and understanding the relationships between all of these components, as well as many other topics.
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Knowing When to Press the Button: Threat Assessment vs. Threat Response
53:51
53:51
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53:51Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! This episode explores a recent incident involving a gun discharged in a classroom, discussing the teacher's response, the implications of lockdown protocols, and the importance of effective communication during crises. Ethan Woodman and Kelly Moore delve into the critical distinctions between threat as…
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Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this conversation, Ethan and Kelly discuss the importance of creating a positive safety culture in schools, particularly in light of recent events such as the school shooting in Sweden. They explore the need to address bullying and the impact of trauma on students' mental health. The discussion emph…
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Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this episode, Ethan and Kelly dive deep into what it really means to reduce trauma in schools. From a personal story about a childhood drawing of “freedom” to a hard look at how schools may unintentionally contribute to student and staff anxiety, this conversation unpacks the importance of context, …
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Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this conversation, Ethan Woodman and Kelly Moore discuss the importance of creating a supportive school environment, the challenges of inclusivity, and the role of consequences in learning. They explore the complexities of accommodating diverse needs while maintaining a safe and positive atmosphere …
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The Importance of Leadership in Emergency Management
1:17:35
1:17:35
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1:17:35Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this conversation, Andy Arnold, founder of The American Excellence Initiative, joins Kelly and Ethan to discuss the importance of preparing school administrators for crisis situations, the need for effective incident command systems, and the shift from a reactive to a proactive approach in crisis ma…
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Active Shooter Response: The Role of Canines
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46:35Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this episode, Brandon Womack joins the podcast! He discusses the innovative School Dogs program, which focuses on using specially trained canines for active shooter response in schools. The conversation explores the role of these dogs in enhancing school safety, the training process for both the dog…
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Misinformation vs. Disinformation: The Hidden Threats in School Safety
52:27
52:27
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52:27Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this conversation, Kelly Moore and Ethan Woodman discuss various topics, including the importance of effective communication during emergencies and the distinction between misinformation and disinformation. They emphasize the need for proactive measures in response to threats, particularly in school…
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Exploring Less-Than Lethal Options for Schools
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44:35Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this conversation, Ethan Woodman and Kelly Moore discuss safety incidents, including a recent news story where a man in Memphis, TN was firing a rifle into the air as he walked down the street, close to school grounds. They explore the concept of non-lethal options in safety protocols, highlighting …
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Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this conversation, Ethan Woodman and Kelly Moore discuss various pressing issues in school safety, including a recent incident involving a principal hosting a party for minors, the implications of such actions on school culture, and the responsibilities of educators. They also delve into the impact …
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More Than a Ride: How Technology is Transforming Bus Safety
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51:08Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this episode of Coffee with Kelly, we take a deep dive into the often-overlooked world of school bus safety. From cameras and AI monitoring to panic buttons and preventative technologies, Kelly and Ethan explore what’s working, what’s missing, and what schools can do to extend safety measures beyond…
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Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this episode, Ethan Woodman and Kelly Moore discuss the recent wildfires in California and their implications for school safety. They explore the impact of natural disasters on communities, the importance of preparedness and response strategies, and the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic reg…
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Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! Recorded live from FETC 2025, this special episode of Coffee with Kelly explores a real-life school threat and the communication gaps that often emerge in crisis situations. Hosts Ethan Woodman and Kelly Moore discuss how law enforcement, school districts, and parents interpret threats differently—and …
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Beyond the Classroom: Mental Health, Bus Safety, and Communication in Schools
51:10
51:10
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51:10Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! This episode takes a deep dive into often-overlooked aspects of school safety, from mental health to bus dynamics. Ethan Woodman and Kelly Moore discuss the critical role of communication between schools and parents, emphasizing the need for individualized safety plans and a proactive approach to menta…
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How Behavioral Indicators and Leadership Can Prevent School Violence
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48:58
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48:58Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this episode, we dive into a powerful conversation about "Left of Bang" – a proactive approach to school safety that tackles threats before they escalate. Patrick Van Horne and Kelly Moore unpack the critical role of leadership in fostering safer school environments, from recognizing early behaviora…
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10-Minute Takeaway: Safety Insights From Recent Attacks
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11:32Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this episode, Kelly discusses the recent attacks in New Orleans and Las Vegas, emphasizing the importance of understanding the nature of these events and the need for proactive measures. He highlights the significance of early warning signs, community preparedness, and collaboration with law enforce…
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Navigating Bullying, Risk Management, and Responsibility in Schools
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45:20
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45:20Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this episode, we explore a troubling incident between two elementary school students in Maryland, raising the question: was it a tragic accident or a sign of bullying? Join us as we dive into the responsibilities of schools and parents in fostering a safe environment, the complexities of student beh…
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You’ve Gotta Ask the Question: “Did We Get Lucky?”
43:11
43:11
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43:11Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this episode, we dive into the critical topic of school safety and the balance between preparation and prevention. From discussing a recent real-life incident involving a potential school threat to unpacking the "pathway to violence," we highlight why being proactive is no longer optional—it’s essen…
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Preventing Harm: From Locks to Leadership in School Safety
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48:38Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this episode of Coffee with Kelly, we dive into the vital topic of preventing harm in schools. From discussing the challenges of implementing basic security measures like door locks to addressing the importance of staff intervention in bullying and crisis situations, we explore the critical role of …
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School Safety on a Budget: Navigating Funding Challenges and Security Gaps
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52:50
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52:50Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this episode, we dive into the critical yet often overlooked challenge of securing reliable funding for school safety. We discuss why simply waiting for mandates falls short, the need for sustainable budgeting, and how schools can strategically plan to address both internal and external security ris…
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Fixing School Safety: The Four Pillars That Really Work
1:00:24
1:00:24
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1:00:24Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! How strong relationships, accountability, and realistic planning can transform K-12 safety — With Guest Jason Stoddard In this episode we dive deep into the challenges and strategies surrounding school safety with Jason Stoddard, Director of Safety and Security for Charles County Public Schools. We con…
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Beyond Just Panic Buttons: Rethinking School Safety Strategies
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55:30Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this episode, we dive deep into the conversation around school safety and the increasing use of panic buttons. Are they enough? We discuss how panic buttons compare to fire alarms and explore the risks of false alarms and swatting. More importantly, we highlight the need for clear communication, coo…
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Chicken Wings & School Safety: The Unseen Vulnerabilities in School Security
1:00:49
1:00:49
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1:00:49Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this insightful episode of Coffee with Kelly, we dive into the importance of assessing vulnerabilities in school safety and security. We start by exploring why robust policies are crucial for effective safety efforts and accountability. Along the way, we discuss two bizarre news stories—one involvin…
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Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this episode of Coffee with Kelly, we explore the crucial topic of school safety, kicking off an exciting new season dedicated to solving some of the most pressing challenges in education today. We delve into the role of the School Safety Director, the importance of having a well-rounded safety team…
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Mindset Matters: Overcoming Obstacles in School Safety
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57:58
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57:58Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this episode of Coffee with Kelly, we dive deep into one of the most pressing issues in school safety—mindset. Kelly discusses how having the right mindset is the most dangerous obstacle and also the greatest asset in ensuring the safety of students and staff. From the complexities of implementing s…
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Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! Join us for an enlightening and engaging episode with Jason Stoddard, the Director of School Safety and Security at Charles County Public Schools. Jason delves into the critical need for certified school safety directors in every district, shedding light on the often overlooked yet essential profession…
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Mastering Prevention and Mitigation in School Safety
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57:24
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57:24Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this conversation, we delve into the critical roles of prevention and mitigation in school safety. We reflect on a recent alarming incident where a student managed to bring a gun to school, despite existing security measures like metal detectors and clear backpack policies. This leads us to discuss …
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How Digital Mapping is Transforming Emergency Response and School Safety
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41:32
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41:32Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! On this episode, we are joined by our guest Mike Rodgers, CEO of Critical Response Group and former military expert, as he discusses the critical role of digital maps in enhancing school safety and emergency responses. Learn how Mike used his battlefield skills to address the dire need for updated and …
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Improving School Safety Through First Responder Collaboration
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53:19
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53:19Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! We're diving deep into the root causes of bullying, stressing the critical need for new solutions to prevent it, and dissecting the unique safety challenges faced by both small and large schools. It's all about peeling back the layers and getting to the heart of these issues. In this episode, we also e…
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Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! Join Kelly and Ethan with special guest ZeroEyes, in a thought-provoking episode of Coffee with Kelly, where they explore the cutting-edge intersection of AI and school safety. Discover how ZeroEyes is revolutionizing gun detection with AI, supplemented by human insight to ensure accuracy. The panel de…
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Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this episode we talk about one of the most controversial topics we’ve seen within the K12 space—arming teachers. In many states teachers have the option to carry a firearm, after meeting certain criteria and conditions, but does it make it right? Is arming teachers an effective deterrent to those wh…
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Why Standardization in Communication Matters
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47:19
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47:19Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this episode we are joined by our very special guest Andrew Arnold from The "I Love You Guys" Foundation in a conversation about enhancing crisis response and school safety through standardization. We dive into the critical need for clear communication and a unified language to prevent cognitive ove…
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Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! We're tackling a tough one – the recent school shooting in Iowa. It's more than just headlines; we're digging into the real stuff like how breaks impact these incidents, the role of bullying, and why everyone in school has a part to play in keeping things safe. Tech's got limits in stopping this, so wh…
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Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! Join us in this compelling episode as we sit down with Shea Darlison from Rise Vision to dive into the critical realm of emergency communication. Amidst the backdrop of a recent shooting incident, Shea underscores the pivotal role of digital signage in streamlining communication during crises. Discover…
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Turning the Unthinkable to the Preventable
24:41
24:41
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24:41Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this episode, we discuss the goals and challenges for schools in the second half of the school year. We emphasize the importance of planning and preparation, particularly in terms of budgeting and resource allocation. We also discuss the need for schools to stop thinking that certain events are unth…
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Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! ...of season 2. SEASON 3 COMING SOON. WE DID IT! A whole year of our podcast. We completed 2 seasons, and we are going to be back for MORE next year in season 3. What can you expect? What else could we possibly talk about? Well just like school safety, our discussions could never end—sorry not sorry. I…
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What if You Had a Protest at Your School?
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41:34
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41:34Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! Ready to explore how we're keeping our schools safe during these uncertain times? Our newest episode tackles school safety procedures amidst all the crazy stuff happening out there, like riots and protests. We're talking proactive steps to deal with unknown threats, understanding how what's going on in…
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BONUS: Have You Heard of The Latest Cybersecurity Threat?
32:51
32:51
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32:51Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this episode we address a pressing concern in school security. We discuss a concerning trend involving a device with the capability to hack various systems. This discussion is sparked by an incident in a Tennessee school, highlighting the device's potential for serious disruption in schools. We expl…
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Involving Parents in Every Phase of Emergency Management
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58:50
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58:50Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this podcast, we discuss the the crucial role parents play in every stage of emergency preparedness within schools. Join us as we explore ways schools can actively engage parents as allies in creating safer environments for students. We discuss strategies, collaborations, and the significance of thi…
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What’s Your Plan When No One is Coming to Save You?
44:14
44:14
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44:14Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this episode the focus is on the vital intersection of risk management and emergency preparedness within school districts. We underline the need for schools to take charge of their safety, even when external assistance isn't readily available. It’s important to recognize equipment deficiencies durin…
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Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! Have you ever assessed your own grasp of safety concepts? Picture a scale, with 1 representing a complete lack of understanding and 10 indicating the ability to impart knowledge about safety and create intricate safety plans. Regardless of where you work - whether it’s a school, a large corporation wit…
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Uniting Parents and Teachers for School and Community Safety
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44:40
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44:40Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! Do you know how important your role is as a parent in school safety? Join us as we discuss the importance of parents getting involved promptly when they witness issues like violence and bullying, stressing the need to approach conversations with empathy and solutions in mind. We also explore how school…
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Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! Welcome to our latest podcast episode as we kick off a brand new school year! Excitement fills the air, but safety and security are our top priorities. In this episode, we delve deep into the comprehensive measures needed to ensure a secure learning environment for students and staff alike. We're not j…
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Prepping for School Reopening: Safety Teams and Beyond
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48:47
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48:47Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! Join us as we delve into the critical tasks that need to be accomplished in the month of August, just before the school doors swing open for both students and staff. Our recent blog posts and podcast episodes have been geared toward this pivotal moment. In some regions, schools have already begun their…
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Red Flags & Resilience: Unleashing Proactive School Violence Prevention
58:21
58:21
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58:21Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In our latest podcast episode, we emphasize the importance of school violence prevention and being proactive in identifying warning signs. We discuss the Latin phrase "Si Vis Pacem Para Bellum," which highlights the need to be prepared for potential violence to ensure a safe environment. The episode al…
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BONUS: Do SRO’s Make Our Schools Safer? With NASRO President Rudy Perez
20:54
20:54
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20:54Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! We took our podcast to the National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO) and interviewed NASRO’s President, Rudy Perez! Kelly and Rudy dive right in and answer the controversial topic: Do SRO’s make our schools safer? Rudy and Kelly provide intelligent discussion and a unique perspective on …
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Proactive Leaders Drive Effective Communication
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47:45
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47:45Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this episode we discuss the importance of strong leadership and preparation in creating a successful safety culture for the upcoming school year. We talk about the challenges faced in planning and executing various tasks and activities necessary for a safe school environment. Are you taking an activ…
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From Hurdles to Harmony: Enhancing School Safety in the Face of Challenges
59:28
59:28
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59:28Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this episode, discover how to navigate obstacles such as funding, time constraints, and lack of expertise, and learn how to embrace these challenges head-on. We will also explore the crucial topic of creating a School Safety and Security Strategic Plan. Reflecting on past accomplishments and improve…
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Discover the Power of Effective Safety Leadership and Prepare for a Safer Future!
1:02:02
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1:02:02Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In our latest podcast, we delve into the crucial role of leadership in ensuring school safety and handling emergencies. Gain valuable insights on developing essential leadership skills, fostering a strong safety culture, and implementing effective policies. Learn how safety leaders drive new projects, …
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From Reflection to Advancement: Unveiling the Path of Progress through AAR and SAMS
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45:57Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this episode, we delve into the importance of After-Action Reviews (AAR) and Safety Asset Management in schools. We explore how AARs enhance safety by identifying areas for improvement, while safety assets encompass a wide range of systems, items, and processes that contribute to overall safety. We …
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Empowering Parents: The Key to Safe Schools through Effective Communication
1:07:38
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1:07:38Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this episode, we discuss the critical role of communication with parents in ensuring school safety. We explore ways to proactively engage parents and turn them into advocates for school safety through effective communication. From involving parents in safety committees and seeking their input on com…
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