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Tag: School safety

  • How location precision enhances safety and reduces response times in emergencies 

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    Key points:

    In emergencies, time is the most valuable resource–and it’s often the one in shortest supply. Whether a medical crisis, fire, or security threat, the difference between a quick response and a delayed one can significantly shape outcomes. While training, communication, and coordination are all essential to emergency preparedness, one foundational element is often underestimated: accurate campus mapping.

    At its core, effective emergency response depends on knowing how to get to the right place at the right time and with the right resources. Digital maps turn abstract safety plans into operational reality. When someone needs help, having location specifics, building layouts, and safety assets clearly visualized and shared enables responders to move with confidence rather than hesitation–and that clarity saves time.

    From static plans to real-time awareness

    Many organizations still rely on static floor plans or paper diagrams for their emergency planning. While these may meet compliance requirements, they often fall short when it matters most. Facilities are constantly evolving: Rooms are repurposed, walls are added and removed, equipment is relocated, and temporary changes are made. A map that was accurate six months ago may already be outdated and unhelpful in an emergency response.

    Modern safety preparedness calls for a shift from static maps to living, digital representations of space. Dynamic maps enable organizations to update changes as they happen, ensuring that responders are working from current information. In a crisis, eliminating uncertainty about entrances, exits, room layouts, or asset locations can shave critical minutes off response times.

    Location is the first question and the hardest one to answer

    Ask any emergency responder what information matters most when a call comes in, and the answer is almost always the same: location. Not just the address, but the precise spot within a building or campus where help is needed. Large or multi-building or multi-floor environments, such as schools and hospitals, add layers of complexity that make a street address alone insufficient. According to recent data, nearly 60 percent of school safety incidents happen outside of the classroom. Knowing exactly where an incident is happening is key to getting help on scene fast. 

    Indoor location is especially challenging when emergencies are reported through mobile devices. While Next Generation 911 standards aim to support sub-addressing–down to the building, floor, or even room–broad adoption and consistent implementation are still emerging. Currently, responders are often dispatched with limited spatial detail, forcing them to spend precious minutes on gathering crucial information after arrival, rather than en route.

    The NIH defines Emergency Medical Services (EMS) rapid response as under five minutes. Nationally, average response time varies between seven and 10 minutes, but in rural and historically low-income areas, EMS or fire response can take up to 20 minutes more than average. Police response times can take even longer.

    Mapping addresses the challenge of keeping response times to under five minutes, by providing visual context that traditional dispatch data often lacks. When responders can see the incident location in relation to stairwells, access points, evacuation routes, and nearby safety equipment, they can plan before they arrive. This reduces time spent searching, backtracking, or waiting for clarification once on site.

    Making safety assets visible before they’re needed

    Emergency preparedness is not only about people; it’s also about tools. Automated external defibrillators (AED), fire extinguishers, drug overdose reversal kits, first-aid kits, utility shut-offs, and alarm panels are only effective if responders can find them quickly. In high-stress situations, even familiar environments can become disorienting.

    Mapping plays a critical role by allowing responders to plan before they arrive on the scene, not after. When the locations of life-saving assets are visible in advance – in addition to routes, access points, and building layouts – responders can make decisions on the way: which entrance to use, which equipment to get first, and how to sequence their actions upon arrival. This shifts response from reactive to deliberate, compressing the timeline between arrival and intervention.

    The impact of saved time is especially clear in medical emergencies: in sudden cardiac arrest incidents, every extra minute of response time can lead to a 6% decrease in the likelihood of survival. If EMS is delayed due to distance, traffic, or call time, knowing exactly where an AED is located– and how to reach it the fastest– can make all the difference.

    That’s why mapping safety assets into a shared visual system helps ensure that these resources are visible and easy to locate. The ability to see safety asset locations in real time also supports daily readiness by enabling facilities teams to track inspections, maintenance, and compliance more efficiently. Over time, this creates a feedback loop where preparedness improves not just during emergencies, but through ongoing operations.

    Improving coordination across roles and agencies

    One of the less visible benefits of digital mapping is its impact on coordination. Emergencies rarely involve a single responder or department. Administrators, facilities teams, security staff, medical personnel, and external first responders all work together, often under intense pressure.

    When everyone involved is referencing the same map, misunderstandings decrease, and decision-making accelerates. Clear visuals help align actions, reduce redundant communication–or miscommunication–and most importantly, reduce response time.

    Training, drills, and a culture of readiness

    Preparedness must be built over time through planning, training, and repetition. Incorporating maps into drills helps administrators and leadership internalize layouts, routes, and procedures before they are tested in real life. That way, they’re not only ready with what they know but prepared to pivot and support EMS response if anything changes.

    This familiarity fosters a culture of readiness. When people understand their environment and their role within it, they are more likely to act decisively and calmly. Over time, mapping becomes more than a technical tool; it becomes a shared language for safety.

    Planning for what’s next

    Mapping sits at the intersection of planning and action. It connects people, places, and resources in a way that supports faster response and better outcomes. By investing in thoughtful mapping practices today, organizations can reduce uncertainty tomorrow. And in emergencies, reducing uncertainty is one of the most powerful ways to save time and improve outcomes. 

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    Peter Crosbie, CENTEGIX

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  • A smarter way to modernize aging school facilities

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    Key points:

    School buildings quietly shape everything that happens inside them. When systems work as intended, learning moves forward uninterrupted. When they fail, instruction, safety, and trust can unravel quickly. Across the country, education leaders are grappling with facilities built decades ago that have not kept pace with today’s expectations for safety, accessibility, and resilience. Federal data shows that many public schools report building conditions in need of major repair or replacement–a challenge that continues to grow as maintenance is deferred.

    Many districts face the same tension. Budgets are finite, buildings are aging, and the list of needs feels endless. Roofs leak. Fire and life-safety systems lag behind code. HVAC equipment strains to meet indoor air quality standards. Accessibility upgrades remain incomplete. Waiting for a crisis to force action often leads to rushed decisions and higher costs. A more effective approach starts with a clear framework for prioritizing infrastructure investments before disruption occurs.

    1. Start with the building envelope

    The building envelope is the first line of defense against water intrusion, heat loss, and environmental damage. Roofs, exterior walls, windows, and foundations tend to be overlooked until failure is visible. By that point, moisture may already be present inside walls or ceilings, creating conditions for mold and long-term structural issues.

    Facility teams should routinely assess roof age, drainage patterns, sealants, and exterior penetrations. Even small breaches can allow water into spaces that are difficult to inspect. Addressing envelope weaknesses early often prevents larger remediation projects later and reduces unplanned classroom closures.

    2. Address water risks before they become health risks

    Water damage is one of the most disruptive issues schools face. Plumbing failures, roof leaks, and flooding events can shut down entire wings of a campus. Beyond visible damage, lingering moisture increases the risk of mold growth and poor indoor air quality, both of which directly affect student and staff health.

    A proactive water management strategy includes mapping shutoff valves, upgrading aging plumbing, and installing moisture-resistant materials in vulnerable areas. Restrooms, kitchens, locker rooms, and mechanical spaces deserve special attention. When water incidents occur, a fast and informed response can make the difference between a short interruption and months of repairs.

    3. Make indoor air quality a standing priority

    Indoor air quality has become a central concern for education leaders, and for good reason. Research and guidance from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency connect poor indoor air quality in schools to health issues that can affect attendance, comfort, and concentration. In older buildings, outdated HVAC systems often struggle to manage ventilation, filtration, and humidity levels consistently throughout the day.

    Modernization plans should evaluate whether HVAC systems are properly sized, regularly maintained, and capable of meeting current standards. Incremental upgrades such as improved filtration, better controls, and consistent maintenance schedules can significantly improve air quality without requiring full system replacement.

    4. Review fire and life-safety systems for today’s standards

    Fire alarms, suppression systems, and emergency lighting are critical to occupant safety, yet many school facilities still rely on systems installed decades ago. Codes evolve, and systems that were once compliant may no longer meet current requirements.

    Regular audits of fire and life-safety systems help identify gaps before inspections or emergencies reveal them. Upgrades should be coordinated with local authorities and scheduled to minimize disruption to learning. Safety systems are foundational, and deferring them introduces unnecessary risk.

    5. Treat accessibility as an essential upgrade

    Accessibility improvements are sometimes viewed as secondary projects, but they are central to equitable education. Entrances, restrooms, classrooms, and common areas should support students, staff, and visitors with diverse needs.

    Modernization efforts provide an opportunity to address barriers that may have existed since a building opened. Improving accessibility strengthens compliance and fosters an inclusive environment where everyone can move through campus safely and independently.

    6. Prioritize projects using risk and impact

    With limited capital funds, prioritization matters. A practical approach weighs both the likelihood of failure and the potential impact on safety and continuity. Projects that address high-risk systems serving large populations should rise to the top of the list.

    Creating a transparent scoring system helps leaders explain decisions to boards, staff, and communities. It also supports long-term capital planning by aligning investments with safety, resilience, and instructional continuity rather than reacting to the loudest problem of the moment.

    7. Build disaster preparedness into capital planning

    Disaster preparedness should not live in a separate binder on a shelf. It belongs in capital plans, renovation scopes, and vendor conversations. Schools often serve as community hubs during emergencies, which increases the importance of reliable power, water, and structural integrity.

    Planning for resilience includes identifying backup power needs, protecting critical equipment, and understanding how quickly spaces can be restored after an event. These considerations are far easier to address during planned upgrades than during an emergency response.

    8. Work with contractors experienced in active learning environments

    Construction and restoration work in schools requires a different mindset. Campuses are occupied, schedules are tight, and safety expectations are high. Contractors who understand how to work around students and staff help reduce disruptions and maintain trust.

    Early collaboration with qualified partners also improves outcomes. Contractors with restoration expertise can flag design choices or materials that may complicate future recovery efforts. Their insight helps schools invest in solutions that support faster reopening if incidents occur.

    Moving from reactive to resilient

    Modernizing school infrastructure is not about chasing the newest trend or tackling everything at once. It is about making informed, safety-focused decisions that strengthen buildings over time. When leaders adopt a structured approach to assessing risk, prioritizing upgrades, and planning for resilience, facilities become assets rather than liabilities.

    Schools that invest thoughtfully in their physical environments protect learning, support health, and build confidence within their communities. The path forward starts with seeing infrastructure as a strategic priority and treating preparedness as part of everyday leadership.

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    Brett Taylor, Mooring USA

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  • When seconds matter: Why in-building coverage is a lifeline for school safety

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    Key points:

    During a school emergency, every minute that passes is crucial, but in those moments, a reliable connection can mean the difference between confusion and coordinated response. Yet, across the country, there is an unseen danger confronting school staff, students, and emergency personnel. This is inadequate communication connectivity within school buildings.

    For years, schools have implemented fortified doors, cameras, and lockdown exercises. This is because communication is the unseen link that connects each safety measure. However, communication can weaken once someone enters a structure composed of concrete, steel, and reinforced glass. This is unacceptable during a time when almost every call to 9-1-1 is generated by a cell phone.

    The changing face of emergency response

    More than 75 percent of emergency calls now come from wireless phones, according to the Federal Communications Commission. When something goes wrong in a classroom or gym, the first instinct isn’t to reach for a landline–it’s to pull out a smartphone.

    But what happens when that signal can’t get out?

    This problem becomes even more pressing as the nation moves toward Next-Generation 9-1-1 (NG911), a major upgrade that allows dispatchers to receive text messages, images, and even live video. These new capabilities give first responders eyes and ears inside the building before they arrive–but only if the network works indoors.

    At the same time, new laws are raising the bar. Alyssa’s Law, named after Alyssa Alhadeff, a student killed in the 2018 Parkland school shooting, requires schools in several states to install silent panic alarms directly linked to law enforcement. Similar legislation is spreading nationwide. These systems rely on strong, reliable indoor wireless coverage–the very thing many older buildings lack.

    When walls become barriers

    School buildings weren’t designed for today’s communications reality. Thick concrete walls, metal framing, energy-efficient glass, and sprawling multi-story layouts often block or weaken wireless signals. During an active-shooter event or a tornado warning, students may shelter in basements, cafeterias, or interior hallways–places where signal strength is weakest.

    After several high-profile incidents, post-incident reports have revealed the same pattern: first responders losing radio contact as they entered, dispatchers unable to locate or communicate with callers, and delays caused by poor in-building connectivity. These breakdowns aren’t just technical–they’re human. They affect how quickly students are found, how fast responders can coordinate, and how well lives can be protected.

    Technology that saves seconds–and lives

    Fortunately, there are solutions available, and they are becoming more accessible.

    The Emergency Responder Radio Coverage Systems (ERRCS) can also be referred to as Distributed Antennas Systems (DAS) within a public safety setting. The technology is responsible for extending radio communication coverage within building infrastructures. ERRCS are required within schools due to measures put into place within fire regulations.

    For communication and safety needs, cellular DAS, also known as small cells, are required to expand cellular coverage on a campus. These enable students, faculty, and staff to make calls, send texts, and exchange vital multimedia messages to 9-1-1 dispatchers, which is crucial during the NG911 era.

    Despite such technologies, smaller schools on more limited budgets can still leverage signal boosters and repeaters to fill coverage gaps within gyms, cafeterias, and other similar areas. At the same time, newer managed Wi-Fi solutions that offer E911 functionality can serve as a backup safety net that can transmit multimedia messages over secure Internet communications when cellular connectivity is no longer available.

    Best practices for schools

    Start with a coverage assessment. A comparison of where signals are dropping, not only for public safety communications but generally across each of the main cellular providers, will provide school administration with information on where to make improvements.

    Schools should then coordinate with the fire departments, the office of emergency management, and wireless service providers prior to implementing any system. This will ensure that they comply with local regulations and interoperability with first responders.

    Finally, maintenance and functionality are just as important as final installation. Communication systems should receive periodic tests, preferably during safety drills to verify that they work well under stress.

    Bridging the funding gap

    Improving in-building communications infrastructure can sound costly, but several funding pathways exist. Some states offer school-safety grants or federal assistance programs that cover technology investments tied to life safety. Districts can also explore partnerships with local governments or leverage E-rate-style funding for eligible network upgrades.

    Beyond compliance or funding, though, this is an equity issue. Every student, teacher, and responder deserves the same chance to communicate in a crisis–whether in a small-town elementary school or a large urban high school.

    A call to action

    A school is more than its classrooms and hallways, it is also a community of individuals each relying on others during times of fear and uncertainty. Perhaps one of the most straightforward ways to make this community more resilient is to provide a strong indoor building communication environment, both for public safety communications and cellular devices.

    The time has come to make connectivity a vital safety component rather than a luxury, because silence is simply not an option when seconds are at stake.

    Latest posts by eSchool Media Contributors (see all)

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    Payam Maveddat, Wilson Connectivity

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  • Nash County equips SROs with breaching shotguns for enhanced school emergency response

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    A tool once mostly reserved for SWAT teams is now in the hands of school resource officers in eastern North Carolina.

    Every SRO in Nash County will have access to a breaching shotgun, a weapon designed to break through locks and reach students quickly in an emergency.

    “We’ve got to do what we can to ensure that we are combat-ready to take care of the community and ensure the safety of our kids, and this is just another tool in our toolbox,” said Nash County Sheriff Keith Stone.

    Instead of firing traditional projectiles that could ricochet into a classroom, the guns use a special powder.

    Nash County Sheriff’s Sergeant Kevin Bissette helped Stone implement these guns across the district.

    “The powder moves forward, impacts the door, and as soon as it’s released from the barrel, it starts to disperse. So, it’s the gas wave and the powder dispersion that’s actually going through and bypassing the locks,” Bissette said. 

    WRAL News checked with every district in the area. Most of them responded, saying their SROs don’t use these guns.

    Stone believes it’s a tool worth considering because it could save valuable time and lives in the event of a school emergency.

    “Some of the places that have had these bad incidents, the doors have been locked and chained and things of that nature, and EMS and law enforcement cannot get into the schools immediately. Time is of the essence,” he said.

    The addition of breaching shotguns is part of a broader push in Nash County to give school resource officers more tools to protect students. All SROs in the district were recently trained on ballistic shields as well.

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  • NYC schools launch groundbreaking emergency alert system for active shooter situations  | amNewYork

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    NYC Schools Launch Groundbreaking Emergency Alert System for Active Shooter Situations

    Every morning, parents across New York (and the country) watch their children head off to school with the same hope that they’ll be safe, learn well, and come home smiling. But in a time when school shootings have become heartbreakingly familiar, it gets increasingly more difficult. To strengthen safety at school, New York City has taken a groundbreaking step by launching the nation’s first Emergency Alert System that links schools directly to 911, ensuring help can be initiated within seconds.

    Yesterday, Mayor Eric Adams and Chief Technology Officer Matthew Fraser announced the rollout of a new Emergency Alert System (EAS), the first in the nation to directly connect public schools to 911 dispatchers. The pilot launched this fall at Spring Creek Campus in Brooklyn, and plans are set to expand to 25 school buildings across all five boroughs (representing 51 schools) during the 2025–2026 school year.

    Psst… Should Your Child Wear an AirTag to School?

    How the New Technology Will Work

    Normally, in an emergency, a school staff member must call 911, describe the situation, confirm the address, and wait while the call is routed to a dispatcher, a process that can take minutes.

    The new Emergency Alert System bypasses that delay. Each participating school will be equipped with multiple fixed buttons and wireless lanyards that can trigger a hard lockdown alert. Once activated, a signal goes directly to 911 dispatch in under 10 seconds, straight to the NYPD’s real-time operations. Dispatchers can immediately send units to the location while a school dashboard provides police with the building’s key details.

    Inside the school, visual and audible alerts let teachers and students know that 911 has been notified and that a hard lockdown is in effect. Notifications also go out simultaneously to NYPD School Safety and NYC Public Schools officials.

    Safety Is the Top Concern

    City officials are emphasizing that this new system is about preparedness, not panic. “We never want to imagine the unthinkable,” said NYC Public Schools Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos, “but safety has to remain our top priority. This pilot adds another layer of protection and peace of mind for our students, families, and educators.”

    CTO Fraser, a father himself, echoes that peace of mind: “There’s nothing more important than knowing your kids will come home safe at the end of the day.”

    Like other existing school safety measures, such as locked doors, safety agents on-site, and regular lockdown drills, this new system just adds another layer of protection. It works alongside what’s already in place, like the Safer Access Program that keeps entrances secure, NYPD School Safety Agents in every building, and the emergency protocols schools practice.

    Between 2015 and 2025, the K-12 School Shooting Database recorded more than 1,900 school shooting incidents nationwide, with 351 in 2023 and 336 in 2024.

    For now, only select schools are part of the pilot program for 2025–2026, and if your child’s school is included, the administration will reach out with details. Lockdown drills will continue as usual. Teachers and staff will receive training on how and when to use the system, and students won’t need to do anything since it’s meant to work quietly behind the scenes. While parents don’t need to do anything different, it’s always a good idea to stay informed through school updates and review emergency procedures with your children.

    Of course, no system can eliminate every risk with our current gun laws, but this initiative is another step to protect our children. As Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez said, “I pray that these rapid response alerts will never have to be used.”

    Psst… Check Out NYC Schools Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos Commits to Continued Support for LGBTQ+ Students

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    By Danielle Ramos

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  • Arvada West High School students host town hall on gun violence, mental health in wake of Evergreen shooting

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    ARVADA, Colo. — Students at Arvada West High School organized a town hall to address gun violence and mental health in schools following the Sept. 10 shooting at Evergreen High School.

    The student-led organization Team ENOUGH A West hosted the event in the school’s auditorium Tuesday afternoon to foster open dialogue about these issues and push for meaningful change.

    “The real wake-up call was Evergreen with how close in proximity that was,” said Spencer Robuck, one of the student organizers.

    Denver7

    Izaiah Brees, another member of Team ENOUGH, said he knew other students shared his desire to take action.

    “I knew that I wasn’t the only one wanting to do something in response to this,” he told Denver7.

    The town hall featured Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser, whose office operates Safe2Tell, a statewide anonymous reporting system for students, staff and the community. Weiser is also running to become Colorado’s next governor.

    Students shared personal experiences with Safe2Tell, including Robuck, who credited the platform with saving his life during a mental health crisis.

    SAFE2TELL.jpg

    Denver7

    “One of the things that really helped me was one of my friends ended up calling Safe2Tell on me, and the officers came, and it helped me mightily,” Robuck told the crowd.

    However, some students expressed concerns about slow response times and insufficient awareness of the program within schools.

    “That is one of the biggest questions we’re working on,” said Weiser. “When you see something, please say something. And what haunts me about Evergreen is, did anybody see something and not say something?”

    The students proposed several changes, including the addition of mental health education to the school’s curriculum. They are also pitching new safety measures such as clear backpacks and metal detectors.

    “The more that you can have an open conversation about gun violence and gun safety, the more kids feel like they have a voice and that they can help participate in change,” Brees said.

    ENOUGH PINS.jpg

    Denver7

    Weiser praised the students’ initiative.

    “One of the parts of today’s conversation that I am incredibly inspired by is these kids here today at Arvada West, they’re taking action,” Weiser said. “They’re not waiting for adults. They’re developing plans to make their school safer.”

    Brees said he’d like to see his school hold more lockdown drills during unstructured periods, like lunch. Arvada West Principal Micah Porter said the school is planning to hold one next week, and more information will be released to students and parents soon.

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    Denver7 | Your Voice: Get in touch with Claire Lavezzorio

    Denver7’s Claire Lavezzorio covers topics that have an impact across Colorado, but specializes in reporting on stories in the military and veteran communities. If you’d like to get in touch with Claire, fill out the form below to send her an email.

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    Claire Lavezzorio

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  • BP Defence Launches E-Commerce Platform for Revolutionary Student Safety Backpacks

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    Family Protection Brand Empowers Parents and Educators with Advanced Bullet-Resistant Technology


    DELRAY BEACH, Fla., October 9, 2025 (Newswire.com)
    –
    BP Defence, a pioneering family protection brand dedicated to student safety, has launched its e-commerce platform, bpdefence.com, making advanced bullet-resistant backpacks directly available to families and schools across the U.S. The innovative safety solution deploys in under two seconds, weighs less than five pounds, and represents a breakthrough in practical, everyday protection for students of all ages.

    Founded by CEO Jesse Erdle, a father committed to protecting future generations, BP Defence reimagines student safety-focusing on empowerment and confidence rather than fear. The company’s flagship backpack features dual-panel NIJ IIIA certified protection made with Spectra Shield® by Honeywell, an ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene fiber that’s 15 times stronger than steel yet lightweight and comfortable for daily use.

    “As a father and innovator, I’ve dedicated my life to potentially saving the lives of children,” said Jesse Erdle, Founder and CEO of BP Defence. “We’re giving families the tools to feel confident and prepared. Our mission is simple: ensure every child can focus on being a kid-learning and growing-backed by protection that’s there if ever needed.”

    Designed for Real-World Safety

    • Fast Deployment: Activates in under 2 seconds

    • Vital Coverage: Dual front and back panels protect critical organs

    • Lightweight Comfort: Less than 5 lbs total

    • Certified Protection: Meets NIJ IIIA standards

    • Age-Inclusive: Ideal for elementary through high school students

    BP Defence believes true safety means preserving the normalcy of childhood while giving parents peace of mind. The backpacks look and function like premium school bags while discreetly incorporating life-saving protection.

    Giving Back and Building Safer Communities

    Through its Giving Back initiative, BP Defence extends protection to children in underserved communities worldwide. The company partners with schools and parent organizations to complement safety protocols, fostering environments that prioritize both learning and security.

    “Parents and educators want tangible ways to act,” Erdle said. “BP Defence gives them that power-proven, practical protection that helps everyone breathe easier.”

    Now Available Nationwide

    BP Defence backpacks are available for immediate purchase at bpdefence.com, with expedited shipping options. The platform supports both families and institutions across 48 states, offering:

    (Shipping unavailable to New York and Connecticut due to local regulations.)

    About BP Defence

    BP Defence is a family protection brand revolutionizing student safety through practical innovation. By merging advanced materials science with thoughtful design, BP Defence creates products that empower families while preserving the everyday experiences of childhood.

    For more information or to purchase, visit bpdefence.com

    Contact Information

    Jesse Erdle
    Founder
    jerdle@bpdefence.com
    561-455-4549

    Related Video

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JXm6o1yjeD4

    Source: BP Defence

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  • Accused kidnapper injects student with unknown substance near school, TX cops say

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    The boy passed out multiple times and required medical treatment, Texas officials say.

    The boy passed out multiple times and required medical treatment, Texas officials say.

    Getty Images/iStockphoto

    A Texas man is accused of kidnapping a student near a school and injecting him with an “unknown substance,” officials say.

    Staff at Aldine High School, in Houston, saw the boy “stumbling and walking off balance” in front of a shopping center across the street from the school, and was then approached by an “unidentified, suspicious male,” on Wednesday, Oct. 1, the district said in a news release.

    The accused kidnapper has been identified as 45-year-old Ted Fleming, court records show.

    McClatchy News reached out to an attorney listed for Fleming but didn’t immediately receive a response.

    According to authorities, the student was being “pulled away” by Fleming, Harris County court records say.

    An officer with the school district’s police department intervened and detained Fleming, the district said. However, the student was now non-responsive, officials said, and the officer began performing CPR.

    “The student regained consciousness as EMS arrived,” the district said. “He told authorities that the (man) had injected him with an unknown substance.”

    The boy passed out multiple times, and at one point was given Narcan, documents say.

    Fleming, who is homeless, is charged with kidnapping, and was jailed Oct. 2, records show.

    Aldine ISD’s police also pursued charges of failure to register as a sex offender, and entering school grounds without notice, and those charges were accepted by the district attorney’s office, the district said.

    Records show Fleming pleaded no contest to a charge of indecent exposure in May.

    Mitchell Willetts

    The State

    Mitchell Willetts is a real-time news reporter covering the central U.S. for McClatchy. He is a University of Oklahoma graduate and outdoors enthusiast living in Texas.

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    Mitchell Willetts

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  • Mom of Poly High student killed in stabbing says other teens threatened her sons

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    The mother of Jacob De La Rosa, a 15-year-old Polytechnic High School student who was stabbed near the campus Friday afternoon, believes that her son’s death stemmed from threats that were made to Jacob’s older brothers.

    When Janet De La Rosa went to inform the school about the threats on Oct. 1, she said, she was told the school resource officer was not available but another employee would take her report and give it to the SRO.

    The mother told the Star-Telegram on Monday that she didn’t feel her concerns were taken seriously by the school.

    She said she showed a school employee messages from “the kid that originally started this whole thing, that he was threatening to come to my house and shoot it up, and that he was sending messages to my son.”

    Jacob’s father, Albert De La Rosa also was stabbed during the incident and is recovering at a hospital.

    His family describes 15-year-old Jacob De La Rosa as a kind-hearted young man who always took care of his family. Jacob was fatally stabbed, and his father, who was also stabbed, remains in the hospital.
    His family describes 15-year-old Jacob De La Rosa as a kind-hearted young man who always took care of his family. Jacob was fatally stabbed, and his father, who was also stabbed, remains in the hospital. Courtesy of the De La Rosa Family

    Fort Worth ISD officials said in a statement Monday that the loss of Jacob De La Rosa will be felt deeply and that he was a valued member of the Polytechnic High School community.

    “Our hearts are with Jacob’s family, friends, and all who knew and loved him,” a spokesperson for the district said in the statement. “This kind of loss is never easy, and it’s important that we care for one another in the days ahead. Counselors are available on campus today and throughout the week to support students and staff.”

    Fort Worth ISD officials said Monday that they wouldn’t comment further about the incident out of respect for the family and the ongoing police investigation.

    Janet said she also called Fort Worth police around 4 p.m. on Oct. 1 to report the threats and she waited until 1:30 a.m. and no officers showed up to take her report. Asked at a news conference Monday about what the family said regarding threats, Police Chief Eddie Garcia said that homicide detectives are still investigating all the circumstances surrounding the stabbing.

    Police have said that they interviewed a juvenile suspect who claimed to have cut the victims in self-defense during a fight. Evidence from the investigation will be presented to the Tarrant County Criminal District Attorney’s Office to determine any possible charges.

    Janet said on that Monday that her husband is stable after surgery, but he has a long recovery ahead of him.

    The day of the incident, Janet said, one of her sons texted the parents to say there were rumors going around that his brother was going to get jumped at the school. Jacob and one older brother were attending Poly High School, while their oldest brother is no longer at the school. Their father drove to a gas station near the school to pick up the two boys. Police have said that the fight started in the gas station parking lot and continued toward Rosedale Street.

    Janet said her husband told her that he saw the alleged perpetrators walking around looking for their sons. Albert said that he got out of his truck to tell the boys to leave his sons alone, but before he could say anything, one of the boys punched him in the mouth, and another boy stabbed him.

    Janet said that her older son and her husband told her that Jacob got out of the truck to help his dad, and one of the boys stabbed Jacob in the stomach and the heart. Her older son got Jacob back into the truck and told his father they needed to go to the hospital, she said.

    “They had already planned this beforehand, that they were going to do something to my kids,” Janet De La Rosa said.

    Jacob’s mother said her son was just a freshman in high school who was excited about his future.

    Jacob De La Rosa trick-or-treating around the age of 6 or 7
    Jacob De La Rosa trick-or-treating around the age of 6 or 7 Courtesy of the De La Rosa family

    In tears and struggling to speak, she said this was a senseless act and Jacob was not involved in gangs or drugs. His death has left their family heartbroken.

    “They ripped him from me, took somebody that meant so much to our family, and not only that, now my husband is disabled because of this,” Janet De La Rosa said. “They destroyed my family, and they broke my heart, and now I’m left with broken pieces, trying to pick them up, trying to help my oldest boys and my husband get help.”

    She said her older son and husband will have to live the rest of their lives with the image of Jacob dying in their arms.

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  • 11-year-old arrested in Volusia for online threats, sheriff’s office says

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    VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. — An 11-year-old was arrested in Volusia County on Sunday for making online threats against his school.

    The sheriff’s office says the FBI notified them about a comment the boy wrote on TikTok, which stated he was going to shoot up Campbell Middle School in Daytona Beach, and mentioned staff members.

    Deputies say he did not have access to any weapons at home.

    Spectrum News reached out to the Volusia County School District, but officials had no comment to share.

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  • Denver Public School using weapon detecting canines at large events

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    DENVER – Denver Public Schools has launched a pilot program, using weapon detecting dogs as a safety tool for large district events.

    Vivian, the black labrador, was one of several K-9s working the homecoming game at All-City Stadium Friday night. At 8-years old she’s already worked a few Super Bowls, major league baseball games, concerts and is now helping DPS.

    “Vivian is imprinted on 29 different explosive odors and firearms, gunshot residue, ammunition that type of stuff. She’s pretty good at identifying those things just with the nose,” said her handler Bob Lovelace with K2 K9 Solutions.

    The dogs are being used as a pilot program.

    “We’re always looking at ways to ensure our schools, our events are safe and welcoming,” said Greg Cazzell, Chief of Climate and Safety for DPS.

    Some locations of big district events, like All-City, do have metal detectors too.

    “The metal detectors can be a little bit more intrusive to people than what the dogs are. We specifically use Labradors and a few a handful of German shorthair pointers, because they tend to be pretty friendly, pretty happy,” said Lovelace.

    The dogs will work all large district events with big crowds until the end of the first semester. The pilot cost around $160,000 and feedback from community members at the events will be a strong indication of whether the district will extend the program.

    In the last three weeks since the pilot launched, the dogs have not detected a weapon. Cazzell said that’s actually the point.

    “We don’t know what we have prevented from coming in. So again, that is one of the benefits that we believe: it’s proactive preventative,” he said.

    For Lovelace, it’s a full circle moment.

    “I was actually a first responder to Columbine, and had a son that went there,” he said, “We responded after the tragedy, and now I get the opportunity to be out here with Vivian trying to prevent that from happening in the first place.”

    Denver7 | Your Voice: Get in touch with Danielle Kreutter

    Denver7’s Danielle Kreutter covers stories that have an impact in all of Colorado’s communities, but specializes in reporting on affordable housing and issues surrounding the unhoused community. If you’d like to get in touch with Danielle, fill out the form below to send her an email.

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  • Fort Worth ISD substitute accused of ‘inappropriate’ contact, removed from school

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    A Fort Worth ISD spokesperson did not clarify what the inappropriate contact was or provide further details Wednesday afternoon.

    A Fort Worth ISD spokesperson did not clarify what the inappropriate contact was or provide further details Wednesday afternoon.


    Bob Brawdy

    Tri-City Herald

    A substitute teacher at Fort Worth ISD’s Benbrook Middle-High School was removed from campus Tuesday after “engaging in unacceptable conduct” toward students, school district officials said.

    The conduct included “inappropriate physical contact” and an “inappropriate comment referencing school violence,” principal Jason Oliver said in an email to parents.

    The incident was handled immediately and the substitute will not return, according to the email. The incident was referred to appropriate internal and external authorities.

    “Student safety and well-being are our top priorities,” Oliver wrote in the email. “Counselors and administrators are available to support any student who may be upset or who wants to talk. If your student shares concerns with you, please encourage them to speak with a counselor or administrator, or contact us directly.”

    A Fort Worth ISD spokesperson did not clarify what the inappropriate contact was or provide further details.

    Lillie Davidson

    Fort Worth Star-Telegram

    Lillie Davidson is a breaking news reporter for the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. She graduated from TCU in 2025 with a bachelor’s degree in journalism, is fluent in Spanish, and can complete a crossword in five minutes.

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  • Parents say Brighton school leaders ‘skated around a lot of questions’ during safety town hall

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    BRIGHTON, Colo. — Concerned parents filled the auditorium at Bromley East Charter School (BECS) Tuesday night, looking for answers from school leadership.

    The school’s administration and Brighton Police Department led a safety town hall just days after bullets were found at the school, leading to a “hold” where students were kept in classrooms as police searched the property.

    School leadership said “three unspent rounds” were uncovered on the property Friday, but no weapon was found, and an offender has yet to be identified.

    Brighton

    Bromley East Charter School parents want accountability after bullet found

    Tuesday night, BECS executive director Jennifer Shaver said “the ammunition was located in a hallway and got kicked into a classroom.”

    “I just want to acknowledge that this event was not easy for anyone, and we hope something like this never happens again,” Shaver told the parents gathered at the school and those watching the town hall via livestream.

    Parents reached out to Denver7 after the incident on Friday, saying communication during the roughly 4-hour hold was limited, leaving them unsure what was going on and if their kids were safe.

    Shaver said during the town hall that while they did not want to alarm parents to make them come to the school during the search, she acknowledged that there should have been an update sooner.

    “So given the length of the hold, it would have been appropriate to give families an update stating, ‘We remain on hold and all students are safe,’” she said.

    Ryan Liggett, one of the parents who spoke with Denver7 before and after the town hall, called that “one of the biggest ownerships [school leaders] had,” but still felt like the town hall “skated around a lot of questions.”

    Denver7

    Denver7’s Ryan Fish listens to concerned parents after Tuesday’s Safety Town Hall at Bromley East Charter School in Brighton.

    The town hall only addressed pre-submitted questions Tuesday night. Leaders said the school received more than 250 questions, but condensed them into about an hour’s worth of questions and answers.

    “It was a lot of general, ‘We can’t speak about that. Here’s our policy.’ There was no specifics,” Liggett said. “They’re trying to make it very low-key. They put this meeting together because of the social media uproar that happened over the weekend. I do not believe this would have happened without us parents speaking out.”

    Another parent who did not want to share his name, fearing retaliation, called for changes to school leadership for how they handled communication during this incident and others. When asked about Tuesday’s town hall, he said he believes the administration “just chose to pick the general nicest questions that they can answer that make themselves look good.”

    There were other communication issues during the incident. Shaver said staff members were supposed to receive notifications at the same time as parents on Friday, but did not.

    “This was due to an error on our part when sending the parent communication along with crafting the staff communication that didn’t link it back either,” she said. “So when we typically send out those notifications… We’ll hit parents and staff at the same time. In this instance, we didn’t do that, and we do try to make sure we’re linking information that we send to our parent community into those communications we send them to staff. And that detail was not executed Friday, and so it will be our practice going forward to include parent community communications within staff communications to ensure consistency with information.”

    Shaver said while there won’t be major safety policy updates, she announced the school is already in the process of securing a full-time school resource officer, and leadership is working to fill that position.

    Brighton PD’s investigation into the incident is ongoing. Parents are still looking for a resolution and someone found responsible for bringing the bullets to school.

    “It’s disheartening,” said Liggett. “You know, I have multiple kids in this school, and we’re about to send them back to school, and they have no idea what happened.”

    Friday’s incident comes one month after a student was reportedly approached by a suspicious man outside the school. In response, Brighton PD increased its patrols near the school.

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    Denver7 | Your Voice: Get in touch with Ryan Fish

    Denver7’s Ryan Fish covers stories that have an impact in all of Colorado’s communities, but specializes in covering artificial intelligence, technology, aviation and space. If you’d like to get in touch with Ryan, fill out the form below to send him an email.

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  • ‘This shouldn’t even be a debate’: Colorado students march against gun violence

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    WESTMINSTER, Colo. — Hundreds of students at Standley Lake High School walked out of class Friday afternoon, lining Wadsworth Boulevard with signs and chants calling for an end to gun violence.

    The demonstration comes just two days after two students were wounded in a shooting at Evergreen High School before the shooter turned the gun on himself. Organizers said the tragedy compelled them to take swift action.

    Richard Butler

    Standley Lake High School Students Riley Johnsen and Abigale Smith

    “We come to school to learn, and this is what we have to deal with,” said ninth grader Abigale Smith. “Everyone’s pretty scared right now. The parents, the teachers, and the students, too.”

    Freshmen Riley Johnsen and Abigale Smith, both 14, said they joined the walkout to raise awareness and push for change.

    “It’s really scary. Coming to school can be scary because of it, because we don’t know what’s going to happen, especially since it’s been in our district,” Johnsen said.

    Smith added that she worried even about the protest itself.

    “I was scared about something dangerous happening while we do this. But I think it’s worth it to let people know what’s going on,” she said.

    Standley Lake High School Students Levin Kenison and Drake Ellis.png

    Richard Butler

    Standley Lake High School Students Levin Kenison and Drake Ellis.

    Freshmen Levin Kenison and Drake Ellis said walking out was about refusing to accept school shootings as the new normal.

    “Gun violence isn’t okay and it shouldn’t be normalized anymore,” Ellis said.

    “I don’t want to get shot just for doing something that I’m legally required to do,” Kenison added.

    Both said the honks and cheers from passing cars reinforced that their voices were being heard.

    Standley Lake High School Students Isaac Palma and Andrew Lin.png

    Richard Butler

    Standley Lake High School Students Isaac Palma and Andrew Lin.

    Standley Lake High School seniors Isaac Palma and Andrew Lin helped organize the demonstration after seeing a similar event planned at Wheat Ridge High School. They expected about 200 participants.

    “I’m shocked that we were able to get such a large percent of the student body out here today, making signs, chanting along Wadsworth,” Palma said.

    “We’re in high school. We’re not adults yet. Why do we have to worry about losing our lives to get an education?” Lin added.

    Both said this walkout was just the beginning of their activism.

    Ben and Steph Petri.png

    Richard Butler

    Ben and Steph Petri can out to Standley Lake High School to support the students.

    Ben and Steph Petri, who have a niece at Standley Lake and a daughter in another Jeffco school, came to support the crowd.

    “We’ve been through too many of these school shootings in our communities, and we’re tired of this,” Ben Petri said. “We want change to make our schools safer.”

    His wife, Steph, called for stronger laws.

    “We’d just like to see common sense gun laws enacted so that kids have less access to guns to do these things,” Steph said.

    Standley Lake High School sophomore Faye Wentz.png

    Richard Butler

    Standley Lake High School sophomore Faye Wentz.

    Sophomore Faye Wentz said she walked out because she was motivated by fear that has become routine.

    “I am genuinely so terrified to even come to the place where I should feel the safest and where I should be comfortable enough to learn,” Wentz said. “No one should have to weigh the fact of, will I be safer if I don’t go to school? Will I be safer if I hide in the bathroom or if I hide in the closet?”

    She added, “This shouldn’t even be a debate. This shouldn’t even be a fight, because these are kids’ lives.”

    Wheat Ridge High School sophomore Maura Plavnick.png

    Richard Butler

    Wheat Ridge High School sophomore Maura Plavnick leading walk out.

    Standley Lake’s demonstration wasn’t the only one.

    At Wheat Ridge High School, sophomore Maura Plavnick led a walkout where students carried signs and marched through their neighborhood.

    “We should not be in fear in our classroom,” Plavnick said. “We should not be worried about making it to school the next day. We should not be struggling due to gun violence.”

    Back in Westminster, students said the two-hour demonstration was just a starting point.

    “I don’t think the change stops here,” Lin said. “We want to spread the word out more — not just in Colorado, but to the U.S. in general.”

    Coloradans making a difference | Denver7 featured videos

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  • North Carolina students walk out of schools to protest gun violence

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    GREENSBORO, N.C. — Students across North Carolina left their classrooms Friday as part of a nationwide call to end gun violence in schools. At least 12 schools participated in the walkouts, including Weaver Academy in Greensboro. 

    What You Need To Know

    • At least 12 schools across the state participated in the walkouts, including Weaver Academy in Greensboro. The effort was part of the Students Demand Action movement, a national protest led by young people who say they are tired of living with the fear of school shootings

    • According to a report from the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, there were more than 13,000 acts of crime and violence in state schools during the 2022–23 school year

    • Walkouts also were organized at seven high schools and at N.C. State in Wake County, as well as one school each in Charlotte, Hillsborough and Wilmington


    The effort was part of the Students Demand Action movement, a national protest led by young people who say they are tired of living with the fear of school shootings.

    “We’re, like, fed up with the school shootings and everything, so that’s why we’re doing this,” said Weaver High School student Caliyah Garrett.

    Garrett said the issue goes beyond politics.

    “I’m seeing on the internet and everything they’re arguing about whether this is a Republican or Democratic situation,” Garrett said. “I think this is a everybody situation.”

    Fellow Weaver student Rani Umrani agreed, adding that the risks feel personal for students.

    “As students, we are the people who will be affected with gun violence,” Umrani said. “There’s a lot of school shootings, there’s a lot of guns at homes, and students, we are very affected.”

    According to a report from the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, there were more than 13,000 acts of crime and violence in state schools during the 2022–23 school year. Over 7,000 of those acts occurred in high schools, more than 4,000 in middle schools and more than 1,500 in elementary schools.

    In response to Friday’s demonstrations, Guilford County Schools released a statement saying:

    “Some of our students participated in a peaceful walkout for about ten minutes as part of a national protest against gun violence,” the district’s director of media relations Gabby Brown said. “Students remained safely on campus and were monitored during this time.”

    Beyond Greensboro, walkouts were organized at seven high schools and at N.C. State in Wake County, as well as one school each in Charlotte, Hillsborough and Wilmington.

    The school protests echo a broader national movement calling for stricter gun laws, safer campuses and more resources to address violence prevention.

     

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  • Prince George’s Co. teachers’ union approves 3-year contract – WTOP News

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    The Prince George’s County, Maryland, teachers’ union says it has ratified a new 3-year contract with the school district that includes pay raises and increases safety in classrooms.

    The Prince George’s County, Maryland, teachers’ union says it has ratified a new 3-year contract with the school district that includes pay raises and increases safety in classrooms.

    The ratification vote by the Prince George’s County Educators’ Association comes two months after the agreement was reached between the union and the second-largest school district in the state.

    “This contract delivers on what our schools need: safer classrooms, fair workloads, and respect for educators. When we support teachers, students thrive. This is a win for all of Prince George’s County,” said Donna Christy, president of the educators’ association.

    According to the union, the new contract improves starting salaries, and includes 9% in cost-of-living pay over the life of the contract.

    “With higher prices for food, gas, housing, and other essentials, this contract will help attract and retain experienced educators,” according to a news release announcing the ratification.

    The new agreement would minimize paperwork for teachers. Grades would go into one system, to streamline the grading process.

    New classroom safety measures would require that if a student shows repeated aggressive behavior, a safety plan is put in place right away.

    Special educators and counselors with heavy caseloads would be afforded support to ensure that students don’t fall through the cracks.

    WTOP is seeking comment from the school district on the ratification. When the agreement was reached, Shawn Joseph, interim superintendent for the school system said, “This tentative agreement demonstrates what is possible when we lead with purpose and prioritize the people who serve our children daily.”

    The ratified agreement still requires approval from the Board of Education of Prince George’s County School Board. Once ratified, the economic provisions of the contract would be retroactive to July 1.

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    Neal Augenstein

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  • Fairfax Co. adds weapons detection screenings at school board meetings – WTOP News

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    Community members attending school board meetings in Fairfax County, Virginia, will be screened for weapons as part of a safety initiative from the school system. 

    Parents, students, staff and other community members attending school board meetings in Fairfax County, Virginia, will be screened for weapons as part of a new safety initiative from the school system.

    Fairfax County Public Schools added the new layer of security at the start of the school year, according to a news release from the school system.

    The school system is asking anyone attending the meetings to come early to budget time for the screening. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for meetings.

    The school system already uses the OpenGate weapons detection system in many high schools and plans to roll it out to all middle and high schools.

    It’s similar to the systems used at sporting events or concerts.

    The same items restricted in schools will apply to school board meetings. Among those items are guns, knives, explosive devices, ammunition, starter guns, paintball guns, pellet guns, blades, brass knuckles, mace and similar devices. Objects that look like weapons aren’t allowed.

    There are some items that are OK to bring inside, but may set off the system. Those items include three-ring binders, laptops, metal eyeglass cases, umbrellas and metallic pencil cases.

    The school system warned bringing one of those items could slow down the screening process.

    In recent years, school board meetings in the U.S. have involved divisive debates that at times turned into physical altercations.

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    © 2025 WTOP. All Rights Reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.

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  • Guilford County Schools adds ‘safety vestibules’ to protect its students

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    GUILFORD COUNTY, N.C. — As students return to class after summer break, Guilford County Schools is stepping up security with new additions to every elementary and middle school in the district.

        What You Need To Know

    • The district is installing what it calls “safety vestibules,” a secure entryway that’s designed to ensure visitors are properly screened before getting access to students

    • The new system creates multiple checkpoints, keeping families and guests contained until staff clear them for entry

    • Assistant Superintendent of School Safety Mike Richie says the goal is to raise all schools to the highest security standards

    • District leaders are working to complete the upgrades across all elementary schools as part of a district-wide push to make safety a top priority


    The district is installing what it calls “safety vestibules.” It’s a secure entryway that’s designed to ensure visitors are properly screened before being allowed into school buildings.

    At Kirkman Park Elementary School in High Point, Principal Yajaira Owens says safety is at the heart of her role.

    “Safety has become, or was on the top of my list since I got here because we are in the center of High Point,” Owens said.

    She says that because they are an open campus, it was important to her to have the vestibule installed. 

    “Learning cannot take place if kids or staff don’t feel safe,” Owens said.

    She says the students are the priority.

    “I love seeing children, I love hearing them and just laughing with them,” Owens said. “But I think, most importantly, I want to make sure that I’m impacting their lives in a positive way.”

    In the past, visitors could walk directly into the building. Now, the new system creates multiple checkpoints, keeping families and guests contained until staff clear them for entry.

    Assistant Superintendent of School Safety Mike Richie says the goal is to raise all schools to the highest security standards.

    While the changes may add a brief wait for families, Owens says parents and staff have already responded positively.

    “Even though it might get a little annoying with them having to wait to get buzzed in, I think that it’s adding an extra protection for them and for their children,” Owens said.

    District leaders say construction at Kirkman Park finished before students returned after summer break.

    Leaders are actively working to complete the upgrades across all elementary schools as part of a district-wide push to make safety a top priority.

     

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    Ashley Van Havere

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  • Preventing harm by connecting the dots in school safety

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    Key points:

    Swatting–false reports of school violence intended to trigger a police response–continues to increase across the country. During the 2022–2023 school year, nearly 64 percent of reported violent incidents in K–12 schools were linked to swatting. That’s over 440 incidents in one year–a more than 500 percent jump from just four years prior.

    Each call pulls officers from genuine emergencies, disrupts classrooms, and leaves students and staff shaken. While emergency protocols are essential, when swatting becomes routine, it’s clear that response plans alone won’t solve the problem.

    Unpacking the early signals

    Swatting rarely emerges out of thin air. It’s often the final act following a series of compounding behaviors, such as:

    • Online harassment
    • Peer conflicts
    • Risky social media challenges
    • Unaddressed behavioral concerns

    These warning signs exist, but are typically scattered across multiple school departments.

    Counselors might log escalating incidents. Teachers may notice changes in student behavior, and school resource officers (SROs) might track repeated visits involving the same individuals. Without a unified way to connect these observations, critical warning signs go unnoticed.

    Operationalizing early intervention

    Districts are reimagining how they capture and coordinate behavioral data. The goal isn’t surveillance or punitive action. It’s about empowering the right people with the right context to align and intervene early.

    When schools shift from viewing incidents in isolation to seeing behavior patterns in context, they are better positioned to act before concerns escalate. This can mean initiating mental health referrals, alerting safety teams, or involving families and law enforcement partners at the appropriate moment with comprehensive information.

    Technology that enables teams

    The process requires tools that support secure, centralized documentation and streamline communication across counselors, administrators, safety staff, and other stakeholders. These systems don’t replace human judgment, but create conditions for clearer decisions and more timely coordination.

    Swatting is just one example of how fragmented behavioral data can contribute to high-risk outcomes. Other incidents, such as escalating bullying, persistent mental health concerns, or anonymous threats often follow recognizable patterns that emerge over time. When schools use a centralized system to document and track these behaviors across departments, they can identify those patterns earlier. This kind of structured coordination supports proactive interventions, helping prevent larger issues before they unfold and reinforcing a culture of safety and awareness.

    Consider Washington State, where swatting affected more than 18,000 students last year, costing schools over $270,000 in lost instructional time. These figures illustrate the operational and human costs when coordination breaks down.

    Reducing risk, not just reacting to it

    Swatting is a symptom of a larger issue. Building safer schools means moving upstream from reactive emergency response to proactive coordination. It requires shared insight across teams, strengthened behavioral threat assessment protocols, and the right supports in place well before crisis calls occur.

    Early intervention isn’t about adding complexity. It’s about reducing risk, improving situational clarity, and equipping school communities to act with confidence–not simply responding when harm is imminent.

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  • First week back in school leads to hundreds of citations in school zones

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    ORLANDO, Fla. — There were nearly 700 traffic stops in school zones across Orange County during the first week of school. 

    The Orange County Sheriff’s Office said that out of those stops, deputies handed out about 250 citations for speeding, for which fines are double.

    What You Need To Know

    • Nearly 250 drivers were cited for speeding in Orange County school zones the first week of school

    • All of those fines are doubled in a school zone

    • Deputies caught drivers going upwards of 40 mph over the speed limit in a school zone


    In a video posted by the sheriff’s office, one deputy even caught a driver going upwards of 40 mph over the speed limit

    “It is alarming that a lot of people are not following the law around schools, around where children are,” said Justin Battle, a dad in Orange County.

    Drivers from last week who were cited now have to pay hundreds of dollars, which is an expensive reminder to slow down in a school zone.

    Dozens of other Orange County drivers were let go with a warning, and that’s just one week.

    “It is wild,” said Katilin Page, an Orange County mom.

    Kaitlin walks home with her son Lucas every day.

    “He loves the school. He told me he almost likes it better than the weekend,” she said.

    Lucas loves school, but he also loves the crossing guard.

    The crossing guard keeps a close eye on speeders and distracted drivers.

    “Sometimes people aren’t paying attention, and he will blow his whistle multiple times, so we feel very safe with him guiding us through the crosswalk,” Kaitlin said.

    Kaitlin said she would love to see flashing lights and even more signage near Hillcrest Elementary to remind drivers, kids are here. 

    A spokesperson for the Orange County Sheriff’s Office says they do increase patrols in school zones now that school is back in session and the SROs who are already there, help keep an eye on speeders and distracted drivers.

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    Sarah Winkelmann

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