The Sound Off On School Safety

What if your students could be the solution to your school’s digital drama? In this episode, Michele Gay talks with Kim Karr—co-founder of Digital4Good—about the real impact of digital citizenship, student empowerment, and practical online safety. From fake accounts to digital addiction, discover how schools can equip students to lead the charge in creating safer, more positive online communities.

Empowering students. Strengthening communities. Preventing harm. Michele Gay sits down with Lindsay Burton from CISA to talk about the transformative role of bystander reporting in school safety. Learn how these systems create trusted pathways for school communities to speak up—and why culture and connection matter just as much as technology.

How can technology simplify and supercharge school safety? Jake Leichtling from Verkada joins The Sound Off to break it down. Discover how smart solutions like AI-driven tools, digital locks, and privacy-conscious systems are transforming school safety. It's about making it easier for teachers, resource officers, and administrators to keep students safer. Inside the Episode: Introduction and Jake’...

This World Autism Month, The Sound Off dedicates a special episode to supporting students with autism and other special needs. Join us for a discussion with inspiring advocate Jeff Snyder and Nick Savarise from the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation. Discover strategies for creating sensory-friendly drills, fostering a culture of inclusion, and individualizing safety plans to meet the unique needs of ever...

In this special edition season finale, get essential insights on door security, the cultivation of a safety-first culture in schools, and practical strategies to enhance security in educational spaces. This roundtable discussion is packed with expert knowledge and actionable advice, making it an indispensable listen for anyone invested in the safety and security of our school environments.

Dr. Savannah Wagner and Officer Meg Soltz break down emergency trauma response in schools, offering practical insights on accessible trauma care. Discover how their expertise is empowering educators and students with essential skills for life-saving action in crisis situations, transforming school safety.

Jonathan Cristall reveals key strategies for teen safety in our digital world. Learn how to guide teens in interactions with law enforcement, manage online footprints, and navigate the subtle complexities of consent. Essential listening for those guiding teens toward a confident and secure future.

Catch our latest episode with Mo Canady, Executive Director of NASRO, as we discuss the pivotal role of School Resource Officers in ensuring safe learning environments. This episode offers insightful perspectives on the functions and misconceptions of SROs, highlighting strategies to enhance school safety. Join us for this enlightening conversation that promises valuable takeaways for educators, a...

On the Sandy Hook Anniversary, join Safe and Sound Schools for a special episode. Co-founders Michele Gay & Alissa Parker share their grief journeys since the unimaginable loss of their daughters. An intimate look at coping with loss and finding healing.

We're going deep into the journey of recovery and resilience following catastrophic events in schools. Our guest, Dr. CJ Huff, the former superintendent who played a pivotal role in the recovery of Joplin schools after the devastating 2011 tornado, shares insights on the complex process of rebuilding and healing within school communities.

Physical safety expert Paul Timm and Michele dive deep into the critical aspects of school violence prevention and the creation of a safe learning environment. This episode offers an in-depth exploration of the physical and cultural facets of school safety. Listen in as we tackle misconceptions about safety measures, the importance of a positive school culture, and the pivotal role of student enga...

Discover powerful narratives of resilience, bravery, and public service with AJ and Madelena DeAndrea. AJ, a seasoned law enforcement officer, and his daughter Madelena, a courageous survivor, share their unique perspectives on facing adversity and enhancing school and community safety. Discover their journey of building a legacy of bravery, the importance of mental preparedness, and the power of...

Join host Michele Gay as she talks with Missy Dodds, a teacher with two decades of experience, about the journey from trauma to healing in schools. This episode delves into the power of resilience, the importance of community support, and the inspirational strength of students overcoming adversity. A must-listen for understanding the transformative impact of empathy and care in educational setting...

Dive deep into Michigan State University's groundbreaking Prevent2Protect initiative with its leaders, Dr. Frank Straub and Dr. Alyse Ley. Explore the proactive outreach strategies aiming to shield our schools from violence, debunk myths surrounding at-risk youth, and learn actionable steps to support kids and teens in your community today.

School counselor and author Molly Hudgens pulls back the curtain on school violence prevention. Discover firsthand insights on recognizing at-risk students, debunking dangerous stereotypes, and the power of genuine connections. Every student deserves a safe environment. Learn how we can make it happen. Tune in now!

How do you lead a community through crisis? How crucial are relationships in school safety? Join us on The Sound Off as Michele Gay sits down with Frank DeAngelis, the exceptional leader at the helm during the Columbine tragedy. Unpack the keys to bridging generational divides, learning from mistakes, and the critical role of communication in safeguarding our schools.

On this episode of ‘The Sound Off on School Safety,’ we’re looking back on the incredible season we’ve had!  We brought you the leading safety experts and thought leaders to discuss the issues affecting our school communities right now… from the Covid-19 pandemic, mental health and wellness, physical security and so much more.  Safe and Sound Schools co-founder, Michele Gay shares memora...

Far too often, individuals with special needs and disabilities are left out of the school safety conversation.  In this episode, Michele speaks with Nick Savarese, Executive Director of the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation about how the organization helps people and families affected by autism.  Plus, how staffing challenges in schools are impacting special needs programs. We hope you enjoyed...

One of the keys to keep up with the fast and ever-changing landscape of school safety is communication.  On today’s episode, Michele speaks with Vik Krishnan, general manager of Intrado Digital Workflows about why community engagement makes all the difference and how Intrado is bringing communications solutions to schools.  Plus, what schools should prioritize right now, and how one dist...

This week marks 9 years since the Sandy Hook tragedy.  In this episode, Michele is joined by Safe and Sound Schools co-founder and fellow Sandy Hook mother, Alissa Parker for an honest conversation about the recent Michigan school shooting, grief, and healing after losing their daughters.  Plus, a special birthday gift to honor Josephine Gay’s legacy.    Thank you for listening...

This year, the United States has set a record for drug overdose deaths at 100,000 in a year.  While it’s difficult to know how widespread this issue is among teens, doctors and researchers are concerned about the growing trend.  In this episode, we’re speaking with Jermaine Galloway who is a police officer, national speaker, and expert in alcohol and drug trends.  Officer Galloway w...

In our special Thanksgiving episode, Michele speaks with Dr. Beth Sanborn, who is a detective, school resource officer, and expert speaker.  Dr. Sanborn discusses the role that school resource officers play in protecting students and staff, and how she creates deep connections with the community.  Plus, why this Thanksgiving break may feel different for schools this year, and how schools...

Experiencing extreme or dangerous weather can not only be frightening- the aftermath can have a devastating effect on communities, business, and schools.    Michele talks with CJ Huff, national speaker and retired superintendent of Joplin Schools about how he led the Missouri district through recovery after the most costly tornado in US history.  Plus, Michele shares the latest...

Youth violence is a significant problem affecting our kids today.  This school safety issue goes beyond physical harm, and can have a lasting impact on our entire communities.  Michele speaks with Dr. Lina Alathari, Chief of U.S. Secret Service National Threat Assessment Center, about key strategies for school violence prevention and intervention.  Plus, Michele discusses how school...

With a rise in kids who need mental health help, school counselors are busier than ever.  Michele speaks with Molly Hudgens, school counselor, author, and Congressional Medal of Honor recipient, who shares the story of how she talked a student with a loaded handgun out of committing a mass shooting at Sycamore Middle School in 2016.  Plus, Michele explores what’s behind the increase in s...