It’s been a while since we heard about #activeshooters in #schools. Unfortunately, as we reopen (which is good overall) there will be increases in school-based incidents. In fact, there have already been smaller-scale ones (https://lnkd.in/eucyYSe)
Are schools safe? The answer is yes. If we look at the data, we will see that shootings occur and each of these is a tragedy but #Schoolshootings are high impact and very low probability. We still must prepare. Both for response AND for #prevention.
As we restart and the trauma of COVID gets dealt with on campus, we will see an increase in #violence. There has been an increase in #mentalhealth issues like depression, etc. during the #pandemic. What are educators going to do about this?
One thing we need to do is sharpen our threat assessment skills. Have you established policy for #threatassessment teams? Is it multi-disciplinary? Are people trained?
Have you included your #counselors, coaches, and advocates for the students? We often rely too much on tactical responders. Do not forget the #studentsupport people and front-line staff who know the baseline behavior of students.
Published by mcolpitts
Dr. Matthew W. Colpitts is currently a professional emergency manager in higher education. He works closely with law enforcement, fire, EMS, environmental health, student affairs, residential life, facilities services, and community partners is enhance safety and preparedness.
Matt has been an educator, administrator, and leader in higher education and K12 independent schools for over 20 years serving in the areas of residence life, university housing, student conduct, campus safety and security, emergency management, enrollment management, and student affairs. Matt has also served in educator-leader roles at diverse educational institutions including University of Washington, Clark University, Landmark College, Southern Oregon University, Utah State University, and Interlochen Center of the Arts. He is a sought-after risk and safety management consultant, working with many different types of education and non-profit institutions.
A first-generation college student from rural Maine, Matt is a proud graduate of Clark University in Worcester, MA with a B.A. in English and Philosophy. He holds an EdD from Fielding Graduate University where he researched emergency management in educational institutions. He holds the Certified Protection Professional (CPP) designation, the premier security credential from ASIS. Outside of school, Matt enjoys reading, traveling, and learning Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
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