When we think of crime and violence in our schools, many think of the terrible acts of violence that have been flooding the media in recent years. Naturally, we think of Columbine High School, we think of Virginia Tech and Sandy Hook, we think of all the children and families who were hurt by these horrific acts. We think of our children and youth and the ways in which we can protect them.

There is an undeniable, increasing prevalence of emergency situations in schools. There is also an increasing severity of school violence. Since Columbine occurred in 1999, there have been over 275 school shootings. The aforementioned incidences are perhaps the most alarming and worst cases of violence in the U.S. school system to date. But we must not let them overshadow the everyday reality that violent, hurtful acts are still happening regularly within the school system.

School safety and security is largely about prevention and planning ahead, meaning that school safety professionals should plan ahead, too. By pursuing comprehensive, accredited school safety training, you can pave the way to a safer, healthier learning environment for children and youth in your community.