Building safer schools means moving beyond simply reacting to crises. It requires a proactive approach, one that weaves safety into the fabric of everyday life. We recently sat down with former Secret Service agent and school safety expert Michael Matranga, who champions this proactive strategy with his “3 Fs”—Foundation, Framework, and Finishes. This framework provides a practical roadmap for schools to create safer learning environments by addressing both daily concerns and potential threats through thoughtful planning, training, and the integration of technology.
Deep dive into the “3 Fs”
The first “F”: Foundation – Building from the ground up
A solid safety foundation starts with well-defined procedures and a staff empowered to maintain vigilance. Matranga’s approach highlights that the best security investments are rooted in people: “A multi-million-dollar system is no good without properly trained and aware staff.” This means establishing protocols, conducting regular risk assessments, and creating a culture that encourages reporting safety concerns early.
Real-world example: Matranga shared a recent incident at a Houston high school where a potential threat emerged in the parking lot. Thanks to clear communication channels and the right technology, the school quickly initiated a “hold” procedure, keeping everyone in their classrooms until the threat was resolved. Regular updates kept students and staff calm, allowing for a swift response. This highlights how a solid safety framework can identify and contain threats before they escalate.
Actionable tips to build the foundation of a proactive safety culture:
- Review safety procedures regularly: Update protocols with the latest research and incident feedback.
- Diversify drills: Practice various scenarios, including medical emergencies, evacuations, and holds, to prepare for a broad range of situations.
- Implement anonymous reporting systems: Give students and staff an easy and confidential way to voice concerns.
- Use OODA to build a culture of awareness: Train staff to remain calm and remember to Observe, Orient, Decide, Act.
The second “F”: Framework – Structuring an effective system
A strong framework provides consistency, enabling smooth communication and coordination. Matranga emphasizes a holistic integration of systems—an “all-in-one” approach where data, procedures, and alerts operate from a single platform. A robust framework should also include threat assessments, scenario planning, and mental health support for students.
Real-world example: Schools with comprehensive threat assessment protocols report fewer incidents due to early detection and intervention. Having technology solutions work together and operate from a single system also enables faster responses. In this example, the integration of Vivi’s API with Raptor Connect allows for different emergency response levels based on the potential threat. According to David Rogers at Raptor Technologies, “Loose animal on the playground” is a surprisingly common alert. When schools can provide context and specificity to their alerts, they can trigger a faster and more appropriate response, tailored to the threat and type of response needed.
Actionable tips to build the framework of a proactive safety culture:
- Establish clear guidelines for addressing concerning behaviors: Define and document red flags that may indicate a need for intervention.
- Build partnerships for mental health support: Collaborate with on-site or local mental health professionals to provide timely assistance.
- Invest in scenario-based training: Regular training on varied scenarios ensures staff are equipped to handle both large- and small-scale events. Establish clear, context-specific instructions for various emergencies, and practice these responses to build muscle memory.
The third “F”: Finishes – Refining with technology and collaboration
The “finishes” layer enhances safety systems with technology and strategic partnerships. For instance, Matranga recommends tools like geo-fencing to monitor campus perimeters, panic alert systems for immediate response, and visual alerts like Vivi to enhance communication during emergencies. Moreover, collaborating with local law enforcement further strengthens response strategies and encourages a coordinated approach to safety.
Real-world example: Technology can streamline emergency response, as demonstrated by Cardinal Gibbons High School. Chief Technology Officer Lesley Coe explained how integrating Vivi’s emergency alerts with their existing Raptor system was critical during a recent medical emergency right before dismissal. The integrated system allowed Coe to quickly initiate a “hold,” communicating the situation and keeping the school calm while staff attended to the student. It also cleared access for emergency vehicles by halting dismissal traffic. “I want everyone to be informed,” Coe stated. “Visual cues help to mitigate panic and ensure a more coordinated response.” She added that the single-button integration with Raptor replaced a much more complex and impractical previous plan.
Actionable tips to refine the finishes of a proactive safety culture:
- Conduct a technology audit: Identify gaps in communication and emergency response tools. Do you have visual and audio alerts? Do you have easy ways to keep people updated visually and audibly via screens, chat, announcements, or other messaging?
- Establish partnerships with law enforcement: Coordinate joint training and drills with local agencies.
- Seek funding for safety technology: State grants and programs like COPS SVPP can offset costs for implementing new safety systems.
Take the next step!
According to the National Center on Safe, Supportive Learning Environments, “school safety affects all students, and is linked to improved student and school outcomes.” To establish a robust foundation for your school’s safety, watch the webinar recording here for further insights and explore how solutions from Vivi and technology partners can enhance your school’s proactive safety culture.
For more information, visit Vivi’s Emergency Alerts page.
