Coffee with Kelly: A Discussion on School Safety

Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this conversation, Ethan and Kelly discuss the importance of creating a positive safety culture in schools, particularly in light of recent events such as the school shooting in Sweden. They explore the need to address bullying and the impact of trauma on students' mental health. The discussion emphasizes the necessity of proactive measures to...

Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this episode , Ethan and Kelly dive deep into what it really means to reduce trauma in schools. From a personal story about a childhood drawing of “freedom” to a hard look at how schools may unintentionally contribute to student and staff anxiety, this conversation unpacks the importance of context, early intervention, and training. They explore wh...

Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this conversation, Ethan Woodman and Kelly Moore discuss the importance of creating a supportive school environment, the challenges of inclusivity, and the role of consequences in learning. They explore the complexities of accommodating diverse needs while maintaining a safe and positive atmosphere for all students. The discussion also touches on t...

Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this conversation, Andy Arnold, founder of The American Excellence Initiative, joins Kelly and Ethan to discuss the importance of preparing school administrators for crisis situations, the need for effective incident command systems, and the shift from a reactive to a proactive approach in crisis management. They highlight the role of leadership in...

Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this episode, Brandon Womack joins the podcast! He discusses the innovative School Dogs program, which focuses on using specially trained canines for active shooter response in schools. The conversation explores the role of these dogs in enhancing school safety, the training process for both the dogs and their handlers, and the importance of having...

Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this conversation, Kelly Moore and Ethan Woodman discuss various topics, including the importance of effective communication during emergencies and the distinction between misinformation and disinformation. They emphasize the need for proactive measures in response to threats, particularly in school settings, and the critical role of crisis communi...

Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this conversation, Ethan Woodman and Kelly Moore discuss safety incidents, including a recent news story where a man in Memphis, TN was firing a rifle into the air as he walked down the street, close to school grounds. They explore the concept of non-lethal options in safety protocols, highlighting the need for effective measures that can prevent h...

Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this conversation, Ethan Woodman and Kelly Moore discuss various pressing issues in school safety, including a recent incident involving a principal hosting a party for minors, the implications of such actions on school culture, and the responsibilities of educators. They also delve into the impact of changing immigration policies on schools and th...

Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this episode of Coffee with Kelly , we take a deep dive into the often-overlooked world of school bus safety. From cameras and AI monitoring to panic buttons and preventative technologies, Kelly and Ethan explore what’s working, what’s missing, and what schools can do to extend safety measures beyond the classroom and onto the bus.   Plus, Kelly sh...

Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this episode, Ethan Woodman and Kelly Moore discuss the recent wildfires in California and their implications for school safety. They explore the impact of natural disasters on communities, the importance of preparedness and response strategies, and the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic regarding continuity of operations in schools. The co...

Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! Recorded live from FETC 2025, this special episode of Coffee with Kelly explores a real-life school threat and the communication gaps that often emerge in crisis situations. Hosts Ethan Woodman and Kelly Moore discuss how law enforcement, school districts, and parents interpret threats differently—and why proactive communication is key to preventing m...

Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! This episode takes a deep dive into often-overlooked aspects of school safety, from mental health to bus dynamics. Ethan Woodman and Kelly Moore discuss the critical role of communication between schools and parents, emphasizing the need for individualized safety plans and a proactive approach to mental health challenges among students. They also shed...

Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this episode, we dive into a powerful conversation about "Left of Bang" – a proactive approach to school safety that tackles threats before they escalate. Patrick Van Horne and Kelly Moore unpack the critical role of leadership in fostering safer school environments, from recognizing early behavioral indicators to setting clear decision-m...

Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this episode, Kelly discusses the recent attacks in New Orleans and Las Vegas, emphasizing the importance of understanding the nature of these events and the need for proactive measures. He highlights the significance of early warning signs, community preparedness, and collaboration with law enforcement to prevent future incidents. Thanks for liste...

Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this episode, we explore a troubling incident between two elementary school students in Maryland, raising the question: was it a tragic accident or a sign of bullying? Join us as we dive into the responsibilities of schools and parents in fostering a safe environment, the complexities of student behavior, and the essential role of training and prep...

Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this episode, we dive into the critical topic of school safety and the balance between preparation and prevention. From discussing a recent real-life incident involving a potential school threat to unpacking the "pathway to violence," we highlight why being proactive is no longer optional—it’s essential. Join us as we explore how schools...

Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this episode of Coffee with Kelly , we dive into the vital topic of preventing harm in schools. From discussing the challenges of implementing basic security measures like door locks to addressing the importance of staff intervention in bullying and crisis situations, we explore the critical role of preparation and action in ensuring student safety...

Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this episode, we dive into the critical yet often overlooked challenge of securing reliable funding for school safety. We discuss why simply waiting for mandates falls short, the need for sustainable budgeting, and how schools can strategically plan to address both internal and external security risks. This conversation brings insight into the true...

Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! How strong relationships, accountability, and realistic planning can transform K-12 safety — With Guest Jason Stoddard In this episode we dive deep into the challenges and strategies surrounding school safety with Jason Stoddard, Director of Safety and Security for Charles County Public Schools. We confront the realities of balancing safety, accountab...

Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this episode, we dive deep into the conversation around school safety and the increasing use of panic buttons. Are they enough? We discuss how panic buttons compare to fire alarms and explore the risks of false alarms and swatting. More importantly, we highlight the need for clear communication, coordinated responses, and taking protective actions...

Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this insightful episode of Coffee with Kelly , we dive into the importance of assessing vulnerabilities in school safety and security. We start by exploring why robust policies are crucial for effective safety efforts and accountability. Along the way, we discuss two bizarre news stories—one involving a school nutrition director embezzling $1.5 mil...

Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this episode of Coffee with Kelly , we explore the crucial topic of school safety, kicking off an exciting new season dedicated to solving some of the most pressing challenges in education today. We delve into the role of the School Safety Director, the importance of having a well-rounded safety team, and the steps schools can take to ensure the sa...

Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this episode of Coffee with Kelly , we dive deep into one of the most pressing issues in school safety—mindset. Kelly discusses how having the right mindset is the most dangerous obstacle and also the greatest asset in ensuring the safety of students and staff. From the complexities of implementing safety protocols in schools to the challenges of m...

Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! Join us for an enlightening and engaging episode with Jason Stoddard, the Director of School Safety and Security at Charles County Public Schools. Jason delves into the critical need for certified school safety directors in every district, shedding light on the often overlooked yet essential professional core competencies required in this field. With...

Share your thoughts and suggest future topics! In this conversation, we delve into the critical roles of prevention and mitigation in school safety. We reflect on a recent alarming incident where a student managed to bring a gun to school, despite existing security measures like metal detectors and clear backpack policies. This leads us to discuss the need for schools to not only prepare for emerg...