School Safety

As students return to school, it is essential for professionals, teachers, safety officers, and law enforcement to work together in creating a safe and supportive environment. School safety goes beyond emergency procedures—it is about building strong partnerships, maintaining open communication, and being proactive in identifying potential concerns. By collaborating across education and safety sectors, we can ensure that students not only feel secure but are also able to focus on learning and personal growth. When educators and safety professionals unite in their efforts, schools become places where trust is built, risks are reduced, and every student has the opportunity to thrive in a protected, welcoming environment.

Office of Safe Schools is now Office of School Climate and Well-Being

Training must include one hour of instruction on Emergency Procedures and Behaviors of Concern:

• Emergency Procedures must be in person
• Required drills (fire, security, etc.) do not count toward the one hour requirement
• Behaviors of concern may be delivered in-person or virtually

The remaining two hours of training may be completed in-person or virtually and may include any of the following topics:

• Situational Awareness
• Trauma-informed Approaches
• Behavioral Health
• Suicide and Bullying Awareness
• Substance Use Awareness

Fire

• The school must practice the response to a fire emergency including the school’s adopted procedures for evacuating the building in case of a fire emergency
• Once a month while school is in session for seven or more days
• Submit report to FRCPP by April 10 each year

School Safety

• A drill that provides for the practice of the school’s procedures for a non-fire-related emergency.
• Examples of School Security Drills: • Lockdown/Active Assailant • Severe Weather • Reunification Two times each school year • The first within 90 days of the start of the school year

Bus Evacuation

• A drill that provides familiarization of students with evacuation locations on a school bus and practice evacuating out the rear door of the vehicle • Note: A school bus is defined as a vehicle designed to carry 11 or more passengers, including the driver.
• Two times each school year • The first week of school • The first week of March
• Submit report to FRCPP by April 10 each year

November 4, 2025

February 3, 2025

May 5, 2025

If you would like to do a presentation or have a suggestion for a training, please contact me.

If you would like to present on a topic or have an idea for a presentation, please contact me.

School Safety Conference

When? March 12-13, 2026

Where? Penn Stater Hotel and Conference Center

More information to follow