Advertise on podcast: The Journey to Safer Schools

School security is most effective when multiple technologies work together—not in isolation. In this ZeroNow Conversations episode, we explore how layered technology solutions can enhance detection, communication, and response to threats on K–12 campuses. From access control and video surveillance to AI-enabled analytics, mass notification systems, and emergency management tools, we examine how an integrated ecosystem strengthens protection and reduces blind spots.Our expert panel will discuss practical strategies for evaluating current systems, identifying gaps, and prioritizing investments based on risk, scale, and available resources. We’ll also highlight interoperability, policy alignment, and the critical human component—training and procedures that ensure technology supports responders rather than overwhelms them.Whether your district is beginning to build a technology roadmap or looking to modernize existing tools, this conversation will offer actionable guidance for designing a layered security strategy that is proactive, scalable, and tailored to the realities of today’s schools.PanelistsPaul TimmPaul Timm is Director of Education Safety at Allegion and a nationally recognized authority on school security. An accomplished author and frequent speaker, he is known for translating best practices in physical security and emergency preparedness into practical guidance that helps K–12 leaders create safer, more resilient learning environments.Guy GraceGuy Grace is a Board Member of the Partner Alliance for Safer Schools (PASS) and a nationally respected leader in K–12 school security. He previously served as Director of Security and Emergency Planning for Littleton Public Schools and later as an education security leader with ASSA ABLOY, where he helped advance best practices in layered, holistic approaches to creating safer learning environments.Michael GarciaMichael Garcia is a school safety and physical security professional with industry experience at HID Global, where he supports secure, scalable identity and access solutions for education and public-sector environments. He is also an active member of Partner Alliance for Safer Schools (PASS), contributing to the advancement of best practices and standards for safer schools. Michael is known for his practical, collaborative approach to helping schools implement layered security strategies that enhance safety while supporting open, effective learning environments.

When Hackers Target Schools: Defending K–12 from Cyber Threats Part of ZeroNow’s Conversations expert panel discussion series, this session examines the growing cybersecurity threats facing today’s schools—and how education leaders can defend against them. As districts become increasingly digital, they’ve also become prime targets for ransomware, phishing, and data breaches that can disrupt learning and compromise sensitive student information. Our panel of cybersecurity specialists, technology directors, and public safety experts will explore real-world attacks, lessons learned, and proactive strategies to build cyber resilience across K–12 systems. Attendees will gain actionable insights on risk assessment, incident response planning, staff training, and leveraging federal resources to protect networks and data. Guests Antoinette King Antoinette King, CISSP, PSP, has more than two decades of experience in the security industry, working in integration, manufacturing, and consulting. Antoinette founded Credo Cyber Consulting in 2020 with the goal of providing her clients with a holistic perspective on security, bridging the gap between the physical and cybersecurity domains with a focus on data privacy and protection. Her first book, The Digital Citizen’s Guide to Cybersecurity: How to Stay Safe and Empowered Online, hit the Amazon Best Sellers list for all its categories in the first 48 hours of release. Her latest book, co-authored with Michelle Kreiger and released in October 2025, From Chalk Dust to Digital Trust: A Guide in Data Privacy and Security for K-12 Leaders, was #1 in Cloud-Based Computing books in the first week of release.Nathan Shanks Nathan Shanks is a seasoned executive and visionary leader with over two decades of experience in the technology and cybersecurity sectors. Currently serving as the General Manager of Global Cyber, Video, Software, and Access Management (VS&A) Professional Services at Motorola Solutions, Nathan drives the strategy and growth of mission-critical services, with a strong emphasis on protecting and securing software that protects communities and empowersenterprises worldwide. This requires leveraging the latest use of AI along with traditional proven techniques.Dr. Marnie Hazelton Dr. Marnie Hazelton is a nationally recognized leader in educational equity, civic engagement, and transformative district leadership. She is the proud recipient of the NJ Visionary Superintendent Award and Leading Now’s Civic Leadership in the Superintendency Award (2025), honoring her innovative and community-centered approach to student success.Under Dr. Hazelton’s leadership, Englewood has accelerated post-pandemic academic recovery, with reading proficiency rising and all student subgroups exceeding growth targets. She has strengthened partnerships with community organizations and city agencies, created a District Community Liaison role, and launched inclusive initiatives such as the annual Back to School Fair.Her visionary efforts include the creation of a Cyber Café to enhance digital access and collaboration, and a state-of-the-art CTE Cosmetology Room that expands hands-on career readiness opportunities for students.With over $17 million in competitive grants secured throughout her career, Dr. Hazelton has led initiatives that close achievement gaps, expand advanced coursework, and promote restorative and dual-language learning. Recognized by the NAACP and as a NASS Superintendent of the Year finalist, Dr. Hazelton’s leadership reflects excellence, equity, and the transformative power of education.

Part of ZeroNow’s Conversations expert panel discussion series, this session brings together leading voices in school transportation, safety, and security to examine the critical challenges and emerging solutions in bus safety. From driver training and student behavior management to new technologies for monitoring and incident response, our panel will share practical strategies and real-world experiences that help ensure every student’s journey is as safe as possible. Whether you oversee transportation, manage security, or set policy, this deep dive will provide actionable insights to strengthen your district’s safety practices from curb to classroom.Guest PanelistsChris WeedinProject Manager·School Safety Operations and Coordination Center (SSOCC) in South Central Washington StateChris Weedin is the project manager for the School Safety Operations and Coordination Center (SSOCC) in South Central Washington State. The SSOCC provides school safety training, resources, assessments, consultation and leading practices for approximately 100 schools. Chris has trained thousands of school staff, students and parents in a variety of safety and security topics. He has a pre-law degree from the University of Washington, has worked in private security and is an accomplished martial artist and self defense trainer. Chris is a member of the Association of Threat Assessment Professionals, a Fusion Liaison Officer with the Washington State Fusion Center and has helped write and implement school safety legislation such as statewide safety staff training and the HearMeWA anonymous youth safety tipline. He can be reached by email at [email protected] RedmondSenior Manager of Security·First StudentJoe Redmond serves as Senior Security Manager at First Student, North America’s largest provider of school transportation, with over 46,000 buses and more than 550 locations across the U.S. and Canada. With extensive experience spanning the U.S. Marine Corps, law enforcement, and private-sector security leadership, Joe advances First Student’s mission to deliver unmatched care and the safest ride to school.   A Certified Protection Professional (CPP) and Professional Certified Investigator (PCI) through ASIS International, Joe leads enterprise-wide safety and risk initiatives, responding to over 575 incidents annually while fostering field-level engagement and operational resilience. He trains and leads the Location Security Liaison (LSL) program, embedding proactive security culture across all levels.   Joe also serves on the Technical Review Committee for the newly published ASIS International School Security Standard, helping shape global best practices for K–12 security. He is recognized for transforming security into a trusted enabler of safety, leadership, and operational excellence.Dennis RyanTransportation DirectorNorth Penn School District

Part of ZeroNow’s Conversations expert panel discussion series, this session delivers a high-stakes look at the unique challenges of protecting sports and special events. From high school stadiums to large-scale community gatherings, these events bring excitement—and potential vulnerabilities. Our panel of security experts, law enforcement leaders, and event planners will share proven strategies for threat assessment, crowd management, emergency response coordination, and integrating new security technologies. Attendees will walk away with actionable steps to close security gaps, strengthen response plans, and ensure the safety of athletes, performers, staff, and spectators—no matter the size or profile of the event.Guest PanelistsGreg ShafferFounder & CEO·Shaffer Security GroupGreg is internationally recognized as a Subject Matter Expert on the phenomena of Active Shooter & Violence. His best-selling book, "Stay Safe - Security Secrets for Today's Dangerous World" provides his extensive knowledge on how to survive critical incidents. He is a renowned expert on physical security, special event security planning & operations, executive protection operations & training, counter-kidnapping & travel safety, police tactics, and tactical firearms training. His twenty-year career in the FBI included six years on their elite Hostage Rescue Team (HRT) where he received enhanced training and worked alongside our government's special mission units across the globe, to include Iraq, Yemen, East Africa, & Southeast Asia.During his tenure as the Supervisor of the Dallas (Texas) FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force, Greg was responsible for developing the security plans for numerous high-profile, high-threat, special events to include the NFL Super Bowl, NBA Championship series, NBA All-Star Game, MLB World Series, and numerous NCAA, PGA, NASCAR events.Greg is also a nationally recognized public speaker (www.GregShafferSpeaks.com) traversing across the U.S. providing lectures, training, and motivational programs to corporate meetings, trade shows, conferences, and board meetings.Greg has earned the Arlington Police Medal of Merit and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) Investigation Excellence Award for his outstanding investigative work on national security matters.Greg is a veteran of the United States Coast Guard where he served for eleven years and commanded the USCG Cutter Point Steele (WPB 82359).Charles ButlerDistrict Safety Manager·Rock Island Milan School DistrictCharles Butler is currently the District Safety Manager for the Rock Island Milan School District. He served the high school for 18 years as Head of Security and Family Liaison. His district is very intentional about safety in the attempt to keep all stakeholders safe.Chief Valdimir TalleyDecatur Public SchoolsChief Valdimir Talley serves as Chief of Police and Director of Safety and Security for Decatur Public Schools in Illinois. A 36-year law enforcement veteran, he brings deep experience in policing, investigations, and crisis response, including service with the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force. Since transitioning into school safety leadership, Chief Talley has focused on building proactive security programs grounded in prevention, community engagement, and collaboration. His work emphasizes training, communication, and preparedness to ensure a safe and supportive learning environment for all students and staff.Support ZeroNow and ZeroNow's programs by visiting www.ZeroNow.org

Join us for an in-depth conversation exploring the intersection of mental health awareness and early risk detection in school safety. This session will focus on equipping educators, administrators, and safety professionals with the tools and insights necessary to identify and address early signs of at-risk behaviors. By integrating mental health frameworks with threat assessment strategies, we aim to create proactive approaches to school safety that prioritize student well-being while preventing harm. Our panel of experts share actionable insights, real-world examples, and innovative practices to enhance the safety and security of our schools.Guests Melissa KreeSchool Psychologist·Oxford Community SchoolsMelissa Kree has been a School Psychologist with Oxford Community Schools for the last 12 years. She has worked at all levels from PreK through high school. She coordinates building level MTSS teams and special education evaluations and is a district level IEP Coach. She serves on the district’s crisis team as well as building level threat and suicide risk assessment teams, following both BTAM and PREPaRE models. She has been an ongoing part of Oxford’s response to the tragedy on November 30th, 2021, and works closely with the Executive Director of School Safety, Operational Technology, and Student Services to regularly review and implement policies and procedures, as well as lead building level teams in the implementation as situations arise. She serves on the district mental health/SEL committee and participates in county level PREPaRE community of practice groups. Melissa serves on the Mental Health subcommittee of the Michigan Association of School Psychologists and is an advocate for the mental health involved in all aspects of school safety before, during and after an event. Melissa lives in Oxford with her husband and two children (2nd and 5th grade)Randolph MercedExecutive Director of Public Safety & Emergency Management·Seattle UniversityCareer university public safety professional with extensive experience supporting student well-being and campus safety. Currently serving as Executive Director of Public Safety and Emergency Management at Seattle University. An active member of the university’s CARE Team and contributor to the development of student support strategies. Previously held a leadership role at the Community College of Philadelphia, where I established the institution’s first BITA/CARE Team. Also provided instruction to graduate counseling students, bringing a public safety lens to student behavioral intervention and support.Rick ShawFounder·First PreventersRick Shaw founded Awareity in 2004 and is the CEO. Rick also founded First Preventers, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, in 2019. Rick is a Pre-Incident Prevention Expert, author of The First Preventers Playbook, and Prevention Coach to forward looking leaders of schools, universities, organizations, and communities. Rick Shaw has been researching failed preventions for over 25 years and has identified dangerous gaps, silos, disconnects, and blind spots that are common in nearly every failed prevention. Rick’s visionary pre-incident prevention innovations offer a new category of solutions that have been recognized with the Risk Innovator award from Risk & Insurance Magazine, Responsibility Leader award from Liberty Mutual, Business Innovation award from Business Insurance, Campus Safety BEST Award from Campus Safety Magazine, and MVP Award from Security Sales & Integration Magazine. Rick also created the First Preventers Framework, a different category of solutions to deliver different and better results, which has been delivering impressive successes and safer schools, workplaces, and communities since 2016.

What does it really take to create a culture of safety in schools—one that doesn’t rely on fear, but instead builds on trust, empathy, and collective responsibility? In this conversation, school leaders explored how safety culture is shaped by the relationships, routines, and reinforcements that happen every day. From defining the difference between climate and culture to empowering teachers and students to play a meaningful role, the conversation emphasized the human-centered work of prevention. Culture vs. Climate: Culture is the shared behavior and "doing"; climate is the perception or "feeling." Building culture leads to lasting change. Everyone’s Responsibility: Safety isn't just the job of one person—it's a shared responsibility that includes teachers, staff, students, and families. Behavioral Change Takes Intention: Culture grows through reinforcement—modeling, training, clear expectations, and positive feedback. Teacher Superpower: Teachers know their students' baseline behaviors better than anyone. When empowered and supported, they’re a frontline asset in threat detection. Communication is Prevention: Open communication between staff, students, and families builds trust and ensures concerns don’t go unheard. Measure What Matters: Safety culture can—and should—be measured, but it starts with identifying what your community values. Simple Systems Matter: Easy-to-use tools like student concern forms and clearly defined scripts make it easier for everyone to take action. Leadership Sets the Tone: School and district leaders model the culture they want to see and must build systems that reflect that vision.

Listen to our conversation with leaders from North Penn School District—Superintendent Dr. Todd Bauer, Director of School Safety Brandon R., and School Board Director Jonathan Kassa—as they discuss how to make school safety a budget priority. What we covered:This conversation focused less on grant lists and more on how to create sustainable funding for school safety through local budgeting, community engagement, and transparency. Panelists shared how they build support for safety initiatives by making data-informed decisions, involving safety leadership in strategic planning, and maintaining a regular cadence of communication with their communities. Topics included: Aligning budgets with your safety vision and culture Empowering safety directors with dedicated budgets and leadership roles Transparent communication strategies to build community trust Creative use of partnerships to stretch limited resources How board engagement and cabinet-level inclusion help shape priorities

This ZeroNow podcast explores the vital role of school bus safety, addressing how transportation staff, technology, and training contribute to creating safer environments for students during transit. Thank you to , and who share their experiences and insights from decades in school transportation. Key Points Drivers as Key Contributors to Safety: Drivers are the first to greet students daily and should be equipped with tools like de-escalation training, situational awareness, and ALICE-based training tailored for buses. Hiring drivers with strong character and providing continuous training ensures a safer and more supportive environment. Evolving Role of Technology: Modern buses integrate GPS tracking, stop-arm cameras, and student tracking systems to enhance safety and operational efficiency. Motion detection systems and live video analytics are emerging technologies aimed at preventing incidents like students left on buses and identifying risks in real-time. Comprehensive Training Programs: Training for all transportation staff, including drivers, assistants, and maintenance teams, covers threat management, behavior management, and crisis response. Partnerships with local law enforcement for programs like "Stop the Bleed" and role-playing scenarios ensure staff are prepared for emergencies. Community Engagement: Building relationships with students, parents, and local law enforcement fosters trust and improves communication. Strategies like engaging School Resource Officers (SROs) and involving administrators in bus activities strengthen support systems. Addressing Bullying and Behavior Management: Early intervention and use of technology to monitor behaviors can prevent incidents. Collaboration with school administrators and behavior analysts helps manage challenging behaviors effectively. Policy and Infrastructure Coordination: Regular evaluation of bus routes and stops ensures safety and efficiency, with adjustments made based on community feedback and traffic conditions. Coordination with municipalities can address infrastructure issues like crosswalk placement and traffic flow.

School safety experts delve into the latest challenges facing K-12 institutions, including cyber threats and physical vulnerabilities. This session will equip you with the tools to identify potential risks, implement effective threat assessment strategies, and ensure the safety of your school community. Learn how to spot emerging threats early, ensuring that vulnerabilities are addressed before they become critical issues. Speakers: James Miller Assistant DirectorArlington Public Schools (APS), School Safety & Emergency Management division James Miller is a Certified Protection Professional and an Assistant Director with Arlington Public Schools (APS), School Safety & Emergency Management division. He holds a masters in Homeland Security from George Washington University. Prior to APS, he was a Senior Security Manager for Amazon Corporate Security and helped grow security programs for HQ2, $2.5 billion infrastructure investment in Arlington. Between 2011 and 2020, Jim was a Special Agent with the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Diplomatic Security. He was trusted and trained to provide a secure environment for the conduct of U.S. diplomacy while protecting people, global property, and information at over a dozen U.S. diplomatic missions around the world. As a community volunteer, Jim was appointed to the Community Oversight Board in March 2022. He currently serves as one of two, non-voting members for a four-year term. Prior to joining the Foreign Service, Jim spent eight years as an infantryman in the United States Marine Corps, including three combat tours in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. When not busy keeping our schools safe, Jim spends time with family and training for triathlons. You can find him running on Four Mile Run trail or swimming at Wakefield. Dr. Judith Solis Deputy Director Region One Education Service Center Dr. Judith M. Solis is a passionate educator with over 40 years of experience in leadership roles that prioritize educational excellence, fiscal responsibility, and organizational health. Currently serving as the Deputy Director of Region One Education Service Center, Dr. Solis leads critical regional initiatives, including the implementation of AI gun detection technology and the "Driving for Success" program. She is a regional trainer for Behavioral Threat Assessments and oversees Adult Education and Early Childhood Intervention programs, ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations.Dr. Solis’s career also includes leadership roles as Assistant Superintendent at San Antonio ISD, Superintendent at La Villa ISD, and Principal at PSJA Memorial ECHS, where she consistently drove improvements in student performance, college readiness, and district operations. Her innovative leadership has earned multiple accolades, and she continues to influence educational practices with a focus on collaboration and strategic growth. Aaron Skrbin Director of Safety and Security Allegheny Intermediate Unit As the Director of Safety and Security for Allegheny Intermediate Unit, Aaron Skirbin leads the development and implementation of safety initiatives designed to ensure the well-being of students, staff, and facilities. With a strong background in emergency preparedness, Aaron works closely with school leaders to establish crisis management protocols, integrate security technologies, and foster a culture of safety throughout the district. His expertise helps create secure learning environments while staying ahead of emerging safety challenges.

Strategies for Securing Sports and Special Gathering with special guests Greg Overstreet from Atlanta Falcons, former University of Florida Security Director Joseph Souza, and Chief Valdimir Talley from Decatur Public Schools. Join us for the final installment of our “Path to Safer Schools” series as we present the webinar “Securing Sporting and Special Events at Schools.” In this session, we will cover critical strategies for ensuring the safety of students, staff, and attendees during large school events. Key topics include: • Threat Assessment and Mitigation: Learn how to identify and reduce risks specific to large gatherings. • Technology Integration: Discover how to leverage AI and surveillance systems for proactive threat detection. • Emergency Response Planning: Develop robust response protocols tailored to special events. • Crowd Management: Explore best practices for maintaining safety and order in high-attendance environments. • Collaboration with Law Enforcement: Understand the importance of working closely with local authorities to strengthen security measures. Don’t miss this crucial program, designed for school administrators, safety professionals, and event coordinators committed to creating secure environments for all school-related events.

In the aftermath of a crisis, recovery, reunification, and resolution are vital to ensuring the safe reunification of students with their families while maintaining order, transparency, and a focus on community well-being. Join Rick Francis, Kelly Martin, and Guy Grace as they share their insights and experiences in guiding schools through these crucial steps. Key Takeaways: Comprehensive Recovery Plans: Learn how to develop thorough recovery plans that address the immediate aftermath of an incident, ensuring a seamless transition from crisis response to recovery. These plans are designed to guide your school community through the complexities of post-incident management. Safe Reunification Procedures: Explore proven approaches to establishing secure, strategic locations to reunite students and their families. We’ll address the logistical challenges and leading practices that ensure a smooth and efficient process. Effective Communication Strategies: Discover how to maintain clear communication during this critical phase, from engaging with families to providing accurate information to the media and other stakeholders. Post-Incident Support and Resolution: Understand how to support students, staff, and families to facilitate healing and resolution. This includes psychological first aid, counseling resources, and methods for assessing the school's response to enhance future preparedness.

Thank you to our panelists , and for their thoughtful contributions to this webinar. "Respond to Threats with Confidence" is a crucial webinar in the Path to Safer Schools series, focusing on the strategies and best practices for responding to emergencies in school settings. This discussion covered essential aspects of school safety response, including leadership during crises, communication protocols, and the integration of technology. Leadership is Critical: Effective leadership during an emergency is paramount. The discussion emphasized the importance of having clear, decisive leadership to guide schools through crises. This involves preparing school administrators and staff to take charge and execute emergency protocols confidently. Unified Command System: Establishing a unified command system in schools is vital for coordinated emergency response. The panelists discussed how schools need to collaborate closely with local law enforcement, fire departments, and other first responders to ensure a seamless response during incidents. Communication and Technology Integration: The webinar highlighted the role of advanced communication systems, such as mass notification tools and interoperable technologies, in reducing response times and improving coordination during emergencies. Effective communication, both within the school and with external responders, is essential for

Join guests Guy Bliesner, Daniel Dluzneski , and Gabrielle Morquecho as we discuss the next step in the Path to Safer Schools: Be Prepared. A well-trained staff and studnt body are key to sustainable safety efforts. Prepare policies and know how to act confidently in any situation. "Be Prepared," part of the "Path to Safer Schools" series, is a dynamic webinar designed to equip school leaders, teachers, and safety professionals with the essential skills and knowledge needed for comprehensive emergency preparedness. Key Topics Covered: Emergency Preparedness Planning: Understand the foundational elements of robust emergency preparedness. Learn how to design and implement comprehensive plans that address a wide range of potential scenarios, ensuring you're equipped to handle any situation. Training for Crisis Situations: Discover best practices for training staff and students to respond effectively to emergencies. From tabletop exercises to full-scale drills, gain insights into building a training regimen that fosters confidence and readiness across the entire school community. Policy Development and Implementation: Explore the critical role of policy in school safety. Learn how to develop clear, actionable policies that guide decision-making during a crisis, while also ensuring compliance with local and federal regulations. Ensure your school is prepared for whatever the future holds by joining this must-attend webinar and becoming part of a dedicated community focused on student and staff safety. JOIN THE CONVERSATION: https://community.zeronow.org/home

In today's climate, ensuring safety in educational settings is paramount. Join us for "Prevent Harm" a crucial installment in the "Path to Safer Schools" series. This podcast brings together a panel of esteemed experts, from diverse backgrounds such as education, law enforcement, mental health, and technology. Together, they will explore innovative strategies and community engagement tactics to safeguard our students.Panel Discussion Overview:The "Prevent Harm" podcast is tailored to equip educators, administrators, parents, and policymakers with actionable insights to cultivate safer school environments. Our panel will engage in dynamic discussions covering topics such as:Early Identification of Risks: Proactive approaches to identify and mitigate potential threats, leveraging behavioral assessments and social media monitoring.Building a Culture of Safety: Strategies to foster a secure and supportive school culture where reporting concerns is encouraged.Innovative Safety Technologies: Exploration of cutting-edge technologies, from advanced security systems to anonymous reporting apps, to bolster school safety.Mental Health and Well-being: test technological advancements that can enhance school safety, from advanced security systems to apps that facilitate anonymous reporting.Mental Health and Well-being: Addressing the critical importance of mental health services in schools as a preventative measure, including counseling, peer support programs, and staff training.Community and Law Enforcement Collaboration: Effective models for collaboration between schools, local communities, and law enforcement agencies to ensure a coordinated response to safety concerns.Policy and Legislative Considerations: Discussion on current and proposed policies impacting school safety and how attendees can advocate for positive change.Speakers Kevin Eberle, EdDCOO Buffalo Public Schools, Ret.·Edingenuity, LLCDr. Kevin Eberle brings over 27 years of experience as a building administrator and former police officer to the field of education consulting, focusing on safety and culture change. As a retired school principal and COO of Buffalo Public Schools, he has also served as a teacher, counselor, and assistant principal. Dr. Eberle's multidisciplinary approach emphasizes trauma-informed care, restorative practices, and positive staff development with mindfulness techniques, demonstrating how these strategies can transform a school's culture and fabric. He is an associate with Zeal Education Group and serves on the boards of the Police Athletic League, Family Justice Center, OLV Humane Service, and Zero Now. John BullwinkelRetired US Secret ServiceJohn Bullwinkel is an accomplished Secret Service Special Agent with over 20 years of experience in national and global security leadership, focusing on personnel and facilities in the nation's capital. Transitioning to a Threat Manager role in the public sector, John brings extensive expertise in high-level security assurance and threat management. His skills encompass security system assessments, risk mitigation, high-level security operations, executive-level protection, tactical team operations, logistics, event security planning, and team leadership. Known for building valuable relationships, John excels in collaborating with stakeholders, management, team members, vendors, and clients at all organizational levels. Brian KatzSafer School SolutionsBrian Katz most recently served as the Chief Safety and Security Officer for the Broward County Public School District, the nation's 6th largest school district. With over 20 years of experience in physical security, investigations, and executive protection, he has provided security consulting for Fortune 500 companies and other unique clients.At Google, Mr. Katz was the Director of Personnel Protective Services, where he built Google's Global Security Investigations and Intelligence teams from a single person to an industry-leading strategic global organization. He developed the Executive Protection Group, Intelligence Group, and the Global Security Operations Center, managing the company's Aviation program and responding to emergent threats worldwide.Following the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School tragedy in 2018, Broward County School District created a Division of Safety, Security, and Emergency Preparedness as a Cabinet-level Chief position. Mr. Katz was selected to fill this role in February 2019 after a national search. In this position, Mr. Katz designed the new Division from the ground up, centralizing all safety and security functions, doubling the number of security staff, and creating layers of safety and security accountability. He also developed a comprehensive safety and security training framework, rolling out these initiatives district-wide.

Desensitized Episode 33 Join us for an insightful interview with Becky Brady, an architect specializing in creating safe and engaging school learning environments. In this video, Becky shares her journey into architecture, inspired by a childhood love for building and understanding how things work. She explains her design philosophy, emphasizing the importance of integrating safety into school designs without making them feel like prisons. Becky discusses the significance of understanding the unique needs and values of the community to create schools that feel like home. She highlights her firm's proactive approach, incorporating safety into the design process from the beginning. Common challenges, such as balancing visibility and safety, are explored, with Becky offering solutions to maintain openness while ensuring quick lockdown capabilities. The video also covers the importance of involving students in the design process, as their feedback helps create inviting spaces they are eager to attend. Becky shares highlights from her projects, turning challenging site conditions into opportunities for enhanced connectivity with the outdoors. Becky concludes by expressing her passion for educational projects and her excitement about ongoing work that connects multiple stories in a school building, enhancing both inclusivity and safety. Don't miss this fascinating discussion on the intersection of architecture, safety, and education! Visit ZeroNow.org for more information.