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Tuesday, July 29
 

8:00am EDT

Day 1 - Welcome and Conference Kickoff
Tuesday July 29, 2025 8:00am - 8:45am EDT
Grand Ballroom
- Presentation of Colors - Hampton Honor Guard 
- Pledge of Allegiance     
- National Anthem 
- Dignitaries 

Speakers
avatar for Donna Michaelis

Donna Michaelis

Division Director, DCJS
Tuesday July 29, 2025 8:00am - 8:45am EDT
Grand Ballroom
  Keynote

8:45am EDT

The Covenant School Tragedy: From An Officer's Perspective
Tuesday July 29, 2025 8:45am - 11:00pm EDT
Grand Ballroom
On March 27, 2023, a 28-year-old former student armed with two rifles and a handgun, entered the Covenant School, a Presbyterian parochial elementary school in the Green Hills neighborhood of Nashville, Tennessee.  The shooter opened fire killing three nine-year-old children and three adults, including the head of the school.  In this riveting presentation conducted by one of the officers first on scene who engaged the shooter, you will hear about the events leading up to the incident, the tense moments on scene trying to locate the killer, and best practices and lessons learned from the officer’s perspective. 
Speakers
avatar for Michael Collazo

Michael Collazo

A proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps, Michael Collazo has developed the leadership, discipline, and resilience that carries him through his remarkable career in law enforcement. For over a decade, he has served with distinction at the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department.One... Read More →
Tuesday July 29, 2025 8:45am - 11:00pm EDT
Grand Ballroom
  Keynote

11:15am EDT

We Are All On Duty
Tuesday July 29, 2025 11:15am - 12:00pm EDT
Grand Ballroom
 With repeated acts of mass violence occurring, safety is a topic that is on everyone’s radar. What do we need to do to keep everyone safe? What signs do we need to recognize and what possible pitfalls do we need to avoid? We will skim the surface of this topic as we begin to explore the possible answers to these questions in this presentation. It will take ALL of us to take care of one another. We must be vigilant. We must know and recognize the warning signs. We must educate and train our students, and we must build relationships. We Are All On Duty. 

Speakers
CG
LD
Tuesday July 29, 2025 11:15am - 12:00pm EDT
Grand Ballroom
  Keynote

1:00pm EDT

Addressing bullying
Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT
Conference Room C
 A longstanding challenge for school communities across the country and spanning decades of American education, bullying behavior is harmful to victims, offenders, and school learning environments, as well as linked to long-term mental health impacts and violent behaviors. Participants will examine the myriad issues and presentations of bullying, considering their impact on students’ learning and sense of safety in school today. We will talk about early prevention, effective intervention methods, and the importance of postvention for both the target and the student engaged in the bullying. Real-world scenarios and policy development will be discussed.
Speakers
avatar for Kaylee Powell

Kaylee Powell

School Counseling & Threat Assessment Coordinator, West Point City Public Schools
Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT
Conference Room C
  Breakout

1:00pm EDT

Before, During, and After Crisis Planning  & Critical Incident Response: SRP and SRM in Action
Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT
Conference Room B
The more comprehensively we contemplate all three phases of a crisis, ensure those who need to be at the planning table are there, and that we understand the hazards we might face before the crisis, the more effectively we can mitigate the effects of those potential crises, and the better the response and recovery phases will go.  This session will demonstrate how to operationalize crisis plans using the Before, During, and After concept, the Standard Response Protocol (SRP), the Individual Safety Plan (ISP), DCJS’ Critical Incident Response Curriculum, and the Standard Reunification Method (SRM).
Speakers
JC

John Clark

Director of Safety & Security, Loudoun County Public Schools
avatar for Jim Miller

Jim Miller

Assistant Director, Safety, Security & Emergency Management, Arlington Public Schools
Talk to me about our systems based approach to school safety and security. Systems-Based Approach: This foundational strategy layers security measures to effectively manage risks, swiftly respond to threats, deter incidents, and prevent single points of failure. It's built on the... Read More →
Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT
Conference Room B
  Breakout

1:00pm EDT

Enhancing Collaboration Between Schools and Law Enforcement 
Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT
Conference Room D
This training helps schools and law enforcement work together more effectively to create a safe and supportive environment for students. Participants will learn practical strategies for improving communication, problem-solving, and crisis response. The session includes discussions, real-life examples, and interactive activities to strengthen partnerships and build trust between officers, educators, and students.
Speakers
avatar for Von Hill

Von Hill

Captain— SLEP Manager, Fluvanna County Sheriff's Office
Von Hill is a dynamic and engaging speaker with over 30 years of experience as a law enforcement leader, much of it in school law enforcement programs. His school safety and management program are the industry model for development and collaboration. Von has worked across the system... Read More →
Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT
Conference Room D
  Breakout

1:00pm EDT

Navigating a Threat Assessment Investigation Using a Multidisciplinary Team: A Table-Top Exercise Experience
Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT
Room 102/103
This training utilizes a tabletop exercise (TTX) to conduct a threat assessment investigation using a multidisciplinary team approach. The TTX will present groups with a threat assessment case, allowing them the opportunity to examine and discuss investigative process options during various scenario injects.
Speakers
avatar for Jason Cornwell

Jason Cornwell

First Lieutenant, Frederick County Sheriff’s Office
First Lieutenant Cornwell leads the School Safety Division for the Frederick County, Virginia, Sheriff’s Office and is a 25-year veteran in law enforcement. He has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice and a Graduate degree in Management.  Since taking over the School Safety... Read More →
Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT
Room 102/103
  Breakout

1:00pm EDT

The Impact of Mass Violence on Individuals and the Community
Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT
Room 203/204
Mass violence events are far more frequent and far more deadly than they have been in previous years.  The increase in violence and its substantial media coverage can lead to negative and, sometimes, long lasting effects on the survivors and on the community at large.  In this workshop, we will discuss the psychological, emotional, and practical impacts of mass violence events. We will discuss the risks for long-term trauma and the protective factors that are crucial to personal and community healing and resilience.  The effects of television, news, and social media coverage will also be discussed. Finally, we will define and discuss the importance of trauma-informed care and identify local, state, and federal resources that can assist following a traumatic event in your school or community.
Speakers
avatar for Dawn Bush

Dawn Bush

Crisis Response Training and Outreach Specialist, Department of Criminal Justice Services
The Victims Crisis Assistance and Response Team (VCART) program provides a victim-centered response that is coordinated by the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) to assist victims following criminal events. The Code of Virginia requires DCJS and the Virginia... Read More →
avatar for Julia Fuller-Wilson

Julia Fuller-Wilson

State Crisis Response Coordinator, Department of Criminal Justice Services
Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT
Room 203/204
  Breakout

1:00pm EDT

Two Roles, One Goal: Building Partnerships with SSO/SROs and School Administrators 
Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT
Room 104/105
This training focuses on strengthening collaboration between school security officers (SSOs), school resource officers (SROs), and school administrators. Participants will explore ways to align their roles, improve communication, and work together to create a safe and supportive school environment. Through discussions and real-world scenarios, attendees will gain practical strategies to enhance teamwork, build trust, and effectively address school safety challenges.
Speakers
avatar for Nikki Wilcox

Nikki Wilcox

School Safety Audit and Climate Survey Coordinator, Virginia Department of Criminal Justice
Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT
Room 104/105
  Breakout

1:00pm EDT

We Are All On Duty…the Sequel
Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT
Conference Room A
We will continue to explore what it means to be “On Duty” in this presentation.  We will take a deeper dive into what we believe keeps our students, staff, and families safe.  We will continue the conversation about recognizing warning signs of students in crisis, the critical need for mental health supports and the importance of training our students as well as staff.  Along with that, we will introduce you to ‘Insider References’…something you may never have thought about before now.  We Are All On Duty.
Speakers
LD
CG
Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT
Conference Room A
  Breakout

1:00pm EDT

Active Attack Incident Management
Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:00pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 106/107
A coordinated effort through a "whole community approach" to establish stakeholders within the community and empower citizens to become "Immediate Responders" who do what they can, where they are, with what they have to work with until "First Responders" arrive. Using the basics of Avoid, Deny, and Defend against an active attack and aiding in the solution to stop the dying with basic medical treatment from the "Stop the Bleed" program.
Speakers
avatar for Adam Keene

Adam Keene

Active Attack Program Manager, Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services
Adam began his career in public safety in 2005 serving in various capacities that began with the Virginia Department of Corrections (VDOC), the Virginia Department of State Police (VSP) and now the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS). He has served as an adjunct... Read More →
Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:00pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 106/107
  Double Breakout (2 Hour Session)

1:00pm EDT

Decoding Autism & Risk: A Clinical Lens on Threat Assessment
Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:00pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 201/202
This session will offer participants information in two distinct areas. First, participants will be provided information and considerations regarding autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The second part of the training will provide insight into components that make up a psychological threat risk assessment.  This session provides training on autism spectrum disorder, including essential factors to consider when interacting with an individual with ASD. Additionally, the following will be addressed: the truth about ASD versus stereotypes, symptoms that are often included with ASD (e.g., insensitivity to pain, avoidance of touch, uneven physical skills, repetitive behaviors, inappropriate laughing, etc.), de-escalation techniques, and comorbid diagnoses. The training on psychological threat risk assessments, specifically within the school setting will include the components that make up and are considered for each assessment. This training will help participants better understand the difference between a risk assessment and a threat assessment, the progression after an individual is deemed to pose a potential threat against the school setting, the different types of threats (direct, indirect, veiled, conditional), the relationship between violence and mental illness, high-risk factors for violence, pertinent information that is effective in conducting the risk assessment, and what information will be needed and pertinent for a violence risk assessment.
Speakers
avatar for April Szilagyi

April Szilagyi

Psychologist, E.A.S. Winchester, PLLC
I am a forensic psychologist with a private practice in Winchester, Virginia. I conduct numerous evaluations for the court system and for individuals involved in the court system. I conduct threat risk assessments for the school system and the Department of Social Services (DSS... Read More →
Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:00pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 201/202
  Double Breakout (2 Hour Session)

1:00pm EDT

Legal Issues in Schools: Where’s the Line Between Enforcing the Student Code of Conduct and Enforcing the Law
Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:00pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 108/109
What does Virginia law say about the use of force?  Where is the line between what school leaders and school security should be doing to enforce school rules - and what School Resources must do to uphold the law?  Is bullying a crime?  This session will provide insight into these topics using cases from the Federal Courts regarding use of force in school, cases involving juveniles, and cases involving active threats to public safety. The presentation will focus on new statutes but will also examine the debate regarding qualified immunity, with respect to law enforcement decisions to use force and situations where law enforcement may face violence at a school. Presenters will provide a strategic approach and provision of guidelines, coupled with key elements of Federal and Virginia law, all with the goal of enhancing the ability of school and police personnel to better respond to legal issues within the school environment and beyond.
Speakers
EC

Elliott Casey

Justice 3D
avatar for Mandi M. Smith

Mandi M. Smith

Pittsylvania County Sheriff
As one of the leaders of TimberlakeSmith’s Education Law practice, Mandi’s practice focuses on advising and representing various school boards and regional educational programs in both internal and external matters. Her practice includes the Local Government practice area, where... Read More →
Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:00pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 108/109
  Double Breakout (2 Hour Session)

2:15pm EDT

Addressing bullying
Tuesday July 29, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Conference Room C
 A longstanding challenge for school communities across the country and spanning decades of American education, bullying behavior is harmful to victims, offenders, and school learning environments, as well as linked to long-term mental health impacts and violent behaviors. Participants will examine the myriad issues and presentations of bullying, considering their impact on students’ learning and sense of safety in school today. We will talk about early prevention, effective intervention methods, and the importance of postvention for both the target and the student engaged in the bullying. Real-world scenarios and policy development will be discussed.
Speakers
avatar for Kaylee Powell

Kaylee Powell

School Counseling & Threat Assessment Coordinator, West Point City Public Schools
Tuesday July 29, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Conference Room C
  Breakout

2:15pm EDT

Before, During, and After Crisis Planning  & Critical Incident Response: SRP and SRM in Action
Tuesday July 29, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Conference Room B
The more comprehensively we contemplate all three phases of a crisis, ensure those who need to be at the planning table are there, and that we understand the hazards we might face before the crisis, the more effectively we can mitigate the effects of those potential crises, and the better the response and recovery phases will go.  This session will demonstrate how to operationalize crisis plans using the Before, During, and After concept, the Standard Response Protocol (SRP), the Individual Safety Plan (ISP), DCJS’ Critical Incident Response Curriculum, and the Standard Reunification Method (SRM).
Speakers
JC

John Clark

Director of Safety & Security, Loudoun County Public Schools
avatar for Jim Miller

Jim Miller

Assistant Director, Safety, Security & Emergency Management, Arlington Public Schools
Talk to me about our systems based approach to school safety and security. Systems-Based Approach: This foundational strategy layers security measures to effectively manage risks, swiftly respond to threats, deter incidents, and prevent single points of failure. It's built on the... Read More →
Tuesday July 29, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Conference Room B
  Breakout

2:15pm EDT

Enhancing Collaboration Between Schools and Law Enforcement 
Tuesday July 29, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Conference Room D
This training helps schools and law enforcement work together more effectively to create a safe and supportive environment for students. Participants will learn practical strategies for improving communication, problem-solving, and crisis response. The session includes discussions, real-life examples, and interactive activities to strengthen partnerships and build trust between officers, educators, and students.
Speakers
avatar for Von Hill

Von Hill

Captain— SLEP Manager, Fluvanna County Sheriff's Office
Von Hill is a dynamic and engaging speaker with over 30 years of experience as a law enforcement leader, much of it in school law enforcement programs. His school safety and management program are the industry model for development and collaboration. Von has worked across the system... Read More →
Tuesday July 29, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Conference Room D
  Breakout

2:15pm EDT

Navigating a Threat Assessment Investigation Using a Multidisciplinary Team: A Table-Top Exercise Experience
Tuesday July 29, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 102/103
This training utilizes a tabletop exercise (TTX) to conduct a threat assessment investigation using a multidisciplinary team approach. The TTX will present groups with a threat assessment case, allowing them the opportunity to examine and discuss investigative process options during various scenario injects.
Speakers
avatar for Jason Cornwell

Jason Cornwell

First Lieutenant, Frederick County Sheriff’s Office
First Lieutenant Cornwell leads the School Safety Division for the Frederick County, Virginia, Sheriff’s Office and is a 25-year veteran in law enforcement. He has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice and a Graduate degree in Management.  Since taking over the School Safety... Read More →
Tuesday July 29, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 102/103
  Breakout

2:15pm EDT

Two Roles, One Goal: Building Partnerships with SSO/SROs and School Administrators 
Tuesday July 29, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 104/105
This training focuses on strengthening collaboration between school security officers (SSOs), school resource officers (SROs), and school administrators. Participants will explore ways to align their roles, improve communication, and work together to create a safe and supportive school environment. Through discussions and real-world scenarios, attendees will gain practical strategies to enhance teamwork, build trust, and effectively address school safety challenges.
Speakers
avatar for Nikki Wilcox

Nikki Wilcox

School Safety Audit and Climate Survey Coordinator, Virginia Department of Criminal Justice
Tuesday July 29, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 104/105
  Breakout

2:15pm EDT

We Are All On Duty…the Sequel
Tuesday July 29, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Conference Room A
We will continue to explore what it means to be “On Duty” in this presentation.  We will take a deeper dive into what we believe keeps our students, staff, and families safe.  We will continue the conversation about recognizing warning signs of students in crisis, the critical need for mental health supports and the importance of training our students as well as staff.  Along with that, we will introduce you to ‘Insider References’…something you may never have thought about before now.  We Are All On Duty.
Speakers
LD
CG
Tuesday July 29, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Conference Room A
  Breakout

3:30pm EDT

Addressing bullying
Tuesday July 29, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm EDT
Conference Room C
 A longstanding challenge for school communities across the country and spanning decades of American education, bullying behavior is harmful to victims, offenders, and school learning environments, as well as linked to long-term mental health impacts and violent behaviors. Participants will examine the myriad issues and presentations of bullying, considering their impact on students’ learning and sense of safety in school today. We will talk about early prevention, effective intervention methods, and the importance of postvention for both the target and the student engaged in the bullying. Real-world scenarios and policy development will be discussed.
Speakers
avatar for Kaylee Powell

Kaylee Powell

School Counseling & Threat Assessment Coordinator, West Point City Public Schools
Tuesday July 29, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm EDT
Conference Room C
  Breakout

3:30pm EDT

Before, During, and After Crisis Planning  & Critical Incident Response: SRP and SRM in Action
Tuesday July 29, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm EDT
Conference Room B
The more comprehensively we contemplate all three phases of a crisis, ensure those who need to be at the planning table are there, and that we understand the hazards we might face before the crisis, the more effectively we can mitigate the effects of those potential crises, and the better the response and recovery phases will go.  This session will demonstrate how to operationalize crisis plans using the Before, During, and After concept, the Standard Response Protocol (SRP), the Individual Safety Plan (ISP), DCJS’ Critical Incident Response Curriculum, and the Standard Reunification Method (SRM).
Speakers
JC

John Clark

Director of Safety & Security, Loudoun County Public Schools
avatar for Jim Miller

Jim Miller

Assistant Director, Safety, Security & Emergency Management, Arlington Public Schools
Talk to me about our systems based approach to school safety and security. Systems-Based Approach: This foundational strategy layers security measures to effectively manage risks, swiftly respond to threats, deter incidents, and prevent single points of failure. It's built on the... Read More →
Tuesday July 29, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm EDT
Conference Room B
  Breakout

3:30pm EDT

Collaborating on Mental Health Support for Safer Schools 
Tuesday July 29, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm EDT
Room 106/107
Division and school leadership, teachers, staff, school counselors, SROs, and psychologists all play an important role in the safety and well-being of students. However, they cannot work in silos. This session will explore how these vital roles align efforts to improve school climate, encourage student engagement, decrease truancy, and keep our youth safe during the school day. Useable strategies in the multi-tiered systems of support will be discussed.
Speakers
avatar for Sarah Ritchie

Sarah Ritchie

School Counselor and Division SEL Coordinator
Sarah Ritchie is a passionate and innovative school counselor with extensive experience supporting student mental health and fostering safe, inclusive school environments. As the 2023 Virginia School Counselor of the Year and a current board member with the Virginia School Counselor... Read More →
Tuesday July 29, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm EDT
Room 106/107
  Breakout

3:30pm EDT

Enhancing Collaboration Between Schools and Law Enforcement 
Tuesday July 29, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm EDT
Conference Room D
This training helps schools and law enforcement work together more effectively to create a safe and supportive environment for students. Participants will learn practical strategies for improving communication, problem-solving, and crisis response. The session includes discussions, real-life examples, and interactive activities to strengthen partnerships and build trust between officers, educators, and students.
Speakers
avatar for Von Hill

Von Hill

Captain— SLEP Manager, Fluvanna County Sheriff's Office
Von Hill is a dynamic and engaging speaker with over 30 years of experience as a law enforcement leader, much of it in school law enforcement programs. His school safety and management program are the industry model for development and collaboration. Von has worked across the system... Read More →
Tuesday July 29, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm EDT
Conference Room D
  Breakout

3:30pm EDT

More Legal Issues in Schools
Tuesday July 29, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm EDT
Room 108/109
Speakers
EC

Elliott Casey

Justice 3D
avatar for Mandi M. Smith

Mandi M. Smith

Pittsylvania County Sheriff
As one of the leaders of TimberlakeSmith’s Education Law practice, Mandi’s practice focuses on advising and representing various school boards and regional educational programs in both internal and external matters. Her practice includes the Local Government practice area, where... Read More →
Tuesday July 29, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm EDT
Room 108/109
  Breakout

3:30pm EDT

Navigating a Threat Assessment Investigation Using a Multidisciplinary Team: A Table-Top Exercise Experience
Tuesday July 29, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm EDT
Room 102/103
This training utilizes a tabletop exercise (TTX) to conduct a threat assessment investigation using a multidisciplinary team approach. The TTX will present groups with a threat assessment case, allowing them the opportunity to examine and discuss investigative process options during various scenario injects.
Speakers
avatar for Jason Cornwell

Jason Cornwell

First Lieutenant, Frederick County Sheriff’s Office
First Lieutenant Cornwell leads the School Safety Division for the Frederick County, Virginia, Sheriff’s Office and is a 25-year veteran in law enforcement. He has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice and a Graduate degree in Management.  Since taking over the School Safety... Read More →
Tuesday July 29, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm EDT
Room 102/103
  Breakout

3:30pm EDT

Safety in Numbers: Exploring the Relationship between Perceptions of Safety and Academic Achievement in Virginia Schools
Tuesday July 29, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm EDT
Room 201/202
Do people perform better when they feel safe? Using data from the DCJS School Survey of Climate and Working Conditions and Virginia Department of Education Standards of Learning Test Results, this presentation demonstrates an observable relationship between the perceptions of safety reported by students, classroom instructors, and staff in Virginia schools and the academic performance of students at those schools.
Speakers
avatar for Jared Hagenow, CTM

Jared Hagenow, CTM

Threat Assessment Specialist, Arlington Public Schools
A Certified Threat Manager through the Association of Threat Assessment Professionals, Jared is a subject matter expert in Behavioral Threat Assessment and Management now supporting the Arlington Public Schools (APS) Office of Safety, Security & Emergency Management as a Threat Assessment... Read More →
Tuesday July 29, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm EDT
Room 201/202
  Breakout

3:30pm EDT

Two Roles, One Goal: Building Partnerships with SSO/SROs and School Administrators 
Tuesday July 29, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm EDT
Room 104/105
This training focuses on strengthening collaboration between school security officers (SSOs), school resource officers (SROs), and school administrators. Participants will explore ways to align their roles, improve communication, and work together to create a safe and supportive school environment. Through discussions and real-world scenarios, attendees will gain practical strategies to enhance teamwork, build trust, and effectively address school safety challenges.
Speakers
avatar for Nikki Wilcox

Nikki Wilcox

School Safety Audit and Climate Survey Coordinator, Virginia Department of Criminal Justice
Tuesday July 29, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm EDT
Room 104/105
  Breakout

3:30pm EDT

We Are All On Duty…the Sequel
Tuesday July 29, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm EDT
Conference Room A
We will continue to explore what it means to be “On Duty” in this presentation.  We will take a deeper dive into what we believe keeps our students, staff, and families safe.  We will continue the conversation about recognizing warning signs of students in crisis, the critical need for mental health supports and the importance of training our students as well as staff.  Along with that, we will introduce you to ‘Insider References’…something you may never have thought about before now.  We Are All On Duty.
Speakers
CG
LD
Tuesday July 29, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm EDT
Conference Room A
  Breakout
 
Wednesday, July 30
 

8:30am EDT

Bomb Threat Assessment for Decision Makers
Wednesday July 30, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am EDT
Room 108/109
The Bomb Threat Assessment for Decision Makers Course introduces the participant to types of threats, the threat assessment process, and the implementation of a Bomb Threat Management (BTM) plan. It provides activities for participants to apply specific portions of the risk management process and their newly acquired knowledge about BTM procedures to develop a risk assessment of a bomb threat.

Please bring a smart device with internet capabilities, this will be used for the end course assessment.
Speakers
avatar for Al Bunaugh

Al Bunaugh

Security Training and Assessment Specialist II, Fairfax County Public Schools
I've been a security professional for almost two decades.  I use everyday as a new opportunity to gain more knowledge and expertise to help teach and train my comrades and new generations.  I am a Fusion Liaison Officer, VA-DCJS School Security Officer Instructor, DCJS Crime Prevention... Read More →
Wednesday July 30, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am EDT
Room 108/109
  Breakout

8:30am EDT

Building Resilient Schools Through Unified Leadership
Wednesday July 30, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am EDT
Conference Room B
This breakout session will have participants examine the ways in which discipline, policies, and systems interact with students. Participants will gain a greater understanding of how having unified leadership at both the school and division levels can contribute to the overall school climate and resiliency of the schools. This session will provide opportunities to reflect on current practices while incorporating strategies for improvement.
Speakers
avatar for Matthew Woods, Ed.D.

Matthew Woods, Ed.D.

District Administrator and Educational Consultant, Leading Out The Woods LLC
Dr. Matthew Woods has served for more than 13 years assisting students, educators, and schools in a variety of roles. His professional experience includes being a high school social studies teacher, middle and high school assistant principal, middle school principal, director of student... Read More →
Wednesday July 30, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am EDT
Conference Room B
  Breakout

8:30am EDT

Communicating Through Crisis: Key Tips for Schools
Wednesday July 30, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am EDT
Room 106/107
In this session, attendees will explore effective critical incident response strategies for school safety leaders.  School leaders often find themselves at the center of a crisis and are responsible for communicating with staff, students, parents, and others about the situation. The form and scope of an incident can vary, but there are some key strategies you can use to effectively and quickly communicate with different audiences. By understanding these strategies, you can ensure that you are sharing the appropriate information in the most effective and timely way. Topics include: Examples of communication through various scenarios; Important content to include in key messages such as direction, status, actions, and compassion; Cautions in communication; Post-incident communication example; and Best practices of communication for public safety on threat-related incidents. Templates and an interactive resource guide will be provided.
Speakers
avatar for Steven MacDonald

Steven MacDonald

Senior Threat Analyst and Trainer, Safer Schools Together
After receiving a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of Victoria, Steven specialized in language analytics and artificial intelligence for major media corporations in the tech industry. As a member of the Safer Schools Together team, Steven specializes in... Read More →
LL
TC
Wednesday July 30, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am EDT
Room 106/107
  Breakout

8:30am EDT

Legal: Virginia Rules
Wednesday July 30, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am EDT
Room 104/105
The focus of “Virginia Rules” is on the criminal justice system, with particular emphasis on how Virginia laws apply to youth under 18. Virginia Rules will educate young Virginians about the law and help them develop skills needed to make sound decisions, to avoid breaking laws, and to become active citizens of their schools and communities. These Standards of Learning (SOL)-correlated lessons are designed for middle and high school students. Virginia Rules offers a comprehensive website with law-related resources and tools geared for students, parents, and instructors. From the website, instructors can access and download lessons with student worksheets, student topical handouts, and supplemental materials. This training is intended for teachers, school administrators, school resource officers (SROs), and school security officers (SSOs) serving middle and high school age youth.
Speakers
avatar for Mark Fero

Mark Fero

Programs Director, Virginia Office of Attorney General
"The Office of the Attorney General is the Commonwealth's law firm. In addition to representing the interests of the people of Virginia, our clients are Virginia state government and the state agencies, boards and commissions that compose it."
Wednesday July 30, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am EDT
Room 104/105
  Breakout

8:30am EDT

School-Based Prevention of Behavior Problems
Wednesday July 30, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am EDT
Conference Room C
When dealing with misbehaving students, tensions often run high, and it is easy to forget to focus on the needs of the students. This workshop offers real strategies to keep a trauma-informed lens in working with students in these situations to lower tensions and realistically de-escalate and regulate emotions.
Speakers
avatar for Lori Wood

Lori Wood

Senior Director of Emergency & Short-term Stabilization Services, Region Ten Community Services Board
Lori Wood is a Senior Director at Region Ten Community Services Board in Charlottesville, VA. She is a graduate of Emory & Henry College and the University of Virginia and is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She is a master instructor with the Thomas Jefferson Area CIT program and... Read More →
Wednesday July 30, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am EDT
Conference Room C
  Breakout

8:30am EDT

The Value of Relationships/Mentoring for SSO/SROs 
Wednesday July 30, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am EDT
Room 102/103
This training highlights the importance of building positive relationships and mentoring students as a key role of School Security Officers (SSOs) and School Resource Officers (SROs). Participants will learn how strong connections can foster trust, improve school safety, and support student well-being. Through real-life examples and interactive discussions, this session provides practical strategies for effective mentorship and relationship-building within the school community.
Speakers
JB
Wednesday July 30, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am EDT
Room 102/103
  Breakout

8:30am EDT

Active Attack incident Management
Wednesday July 30, 2025 8:30am - 10:45am EDT
Grand Ballroom
A coordinated effort through a "whole community approach" to establish stakeholders within the community and empower citizens to become "Immediate Responders" who do what they can, where they are, with what they have to work with until "First Responders" arrive. Using the basics of Avoid, Deny, and Defend against an active attack and aiding in the solution to stop the dying with basic medical treatment from the "Stop the Bleed" program.
Speakers
avatar for Adam Keene

Adam Keene

Active Attack Program Manager, Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services
Adam began his career in public safety in 2005 serving in various capacities that began with the Virginia Department of Corrections (VDOC), the Virginia Department of State Police (VSP) and now the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS). He has served as an adjunct... Read More →
Wednesday July 30, 2025 8:30am - 10:45am EDT
Grand Ballroom
  Double Breakout (2 Hour Session)

8:30am EDT

DARE Updates
Wednesday July 30, 2025 8:30am - 10:45am EDT
Conference Room D
This session of D.A.R.E. updates will include Virginia D.A.R.E. Association business and updates in training available from D.A.R.E. America including new elementary vaping and social media lessons.
Speakers
RH
Wednesday July 30, 2025 8:30am - 10:45am EDT
Conference Room D
  Double Breakout (2 Hour Session)

8:30am EDT

Social Media and Open Source Investigations
Wednesday July 30, 2025 8:30am - 10:45pm EDT
Conference Room A
Speakers
SK
Wednesday July 30, 2025 8:30am - 10:45pm EDT
Conference Room A
  Double Breakout (2 Hour Session)

9:45am EDT

Bomb Threat Assessment for Decision Makers
Wednesday July 30, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am EDT
Room 108/109
The Bomb Threat Assessment for Decision Makers Course introduces the participant to types of threats, the threat assessment process, and the implementation of a Bomb Threat Management (BTM) plan. It provides activities for participants to apply specific portions of the risk management process and their newly acquired knowledge about BTM procedures to develop a risk assessment of a bomb threat.

Please bring a smart device with internet capabilities, this will be used for the end course assessment.
Speakers
avatar for Al Bunaugh

Al Bunaugh

Security Training and Assessment Specialist II, Fairfax County Public Schools
I've been a security professional for almost two decades.  I use everyday as a new opportunity to gain more knowledge and expertise to help teach and train my comrades and new generations.  I am a Fusion Liaison Officer, VA-DCJS School Security Officer Instructor, DCJS Crime Prevention... Read More →
Wednesday July 30, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am EDT
Room 108/109
  Breakout

9:45am EDT

Building Resilient Schools Through Unified Leadership
Wednesday July 30, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am EDT
Conference Room B
This breakout session will have participants examine the ways in which discipline, policies, and systems interact with students. Participants will gain a greater understanding of how having unified leadership at both the school and division levels can contribute to the overall school climate and resiliency of the schools. This session will provide opportunities to reflect on current practices while incorporating strategies for improvement.
Speakers
avatar for Matthew Woods, Ed.D.

Matthew Woods, Ed.D.

District Administrator and Educational Consultant, Leading Out The Woods LLC
Dr. Matthew Woods has served for more than 13 years assisting students, educators, and schools in a variety of roles. His professional experience includes being a high school social studies teacher, middle and high school assistant principal, middle school principal, director of student... Read More →
Wednesday July 30, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am EDT
Conference Room B
  Breakout

9:45am EDT

Communicating Through Crisis: Key Tips for Schools
Wednesday July 30, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am EDT
Room 106/107
In this session, attendees will explore effective critical incident response strategies for school safety leaders.  School leaders often find themselves at the center of a crisis and are responsible for communicating with staff, students, parents, and others about the situation. The form and scope of an incident can vary, but there are some key strategies you can use to effectively and quickly communicate with different audiences. By understanding these strategies, you can ensure that you are sharing the appropriate information in the most effective and timely way. Topics include: Examples of communication through various scenarios; Important content to include in key messages such as direction, status, actions, and compassion; Cautions in communication; Post-incident communication example; and Best practices of communication for public safety on threat-related incidents. Templates and an interactive resource guide will be provided.
Speakers
avatar for Steven MacDonald

Steven MacDonald

Senior Threat Analyst and Trainer, Safer Schools Together
After receiving a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of Victoria, Steven specialized in language analytics and artificial intelligence for major media corporations in the tech industry. As a member of the Safer Schools Together team, Steven specializes in... Read More →
LL
TC
Wednesday July 30, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am EDT
Room 106/107
  Breakout

9:45am EDT

Legal: Virginia Rules
Wednesday July 30, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am EDT
Room 104/105
The focus of “Virginia Rules” is on the criminal justice system, with particular emphasis on how Virginia laws apply to youth under 18. Virginia Rules will educate young Virginians about the law and help them develop skills needed to make sound decisions, to avoid breaking laws, and to become active citizens of their schools and communities. These Standards of Learning (SOL)-correlated lessons are designed for middle and high school students. Virginia Rules offers a comprehensive website with law-related resources and tools geared for students, parents, and instructors. From the website, instructors can access and download lessons with student worksheets, student topical handouts, and supplemental materials. This training is intended for teachers, school administrators, school resource officers (SROs), and school security officers (SSOs) serving middle and high school age youth.
Speakers
avatar for Mark Fero

Mark Fero

Programs Director, Virginia Office of Attorney General
"The Office of the Attorney General is the Commonwealth's law firm. In addition to representing the interests of the people of Virginia, our clients are Virginia state government and the state agencies, boards and commissions that compose it."
Wednesday July 30, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am EDT
Room 104/105
  Breakout

9:45am EDT

School-Based Prevention of Behavior Problems
Wednesday July 30, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am EDT
Conference Room C
When dealing with misbehaving students, tensions often run high, and it is easy to forget to focus on the needs of the students. This workshop offers real strategies to keep a trauma-informed lens in working with students in these situations to lower tensions and realistically de-escalate and regulate emotions.
Speakers
avatar for Lori Wood

Lori Wood

Senior Director of Emergency & Short-term Stabilization Services, Region Ten Community Services Board
Lori Wood is a Senior Director at Region Ten Community Services Board in Charlottesville, VA. She is a graduate of Emory & Henry College and the University of Virginia and is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She is a master instructor with the Thomas Jefferson Area CIT program and... Read More →
Wednesday July 30, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am EDT
Conference Room C
  Breakout

9:45am EDT

The Value of Relationships/Mentoring for SSO/SROs 
Wednesday July 30, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am EDT
Room 102/103
This training highlights the importance of building positive relationships and mentoring students as a key role of School Security Officers (SSOs) and School Resource Officers (SROs). Participants will learn how strong connections can foster trust, improve school safety, and support student well-being. Through real-life examples and interactive discussions, this session provides practical strategies for effective mentorship and relationship-building within the school community.
Speakers
JB
Wednesday July 30, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am EDT
Room 102/103
  Breakout

11:00am EDT

Be Safe Virginia
Wednesday July 30, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Room 104/105
This workshop introduces the dynamic public health and safety program called “Be Safe Virginia” designed for students in Pre-K through 5th grade. This program covers essential topics such as bus safety, personal safety in both in-person and online interactions, and the impacts of substance abuse and bullying. Participants will explore a wealth of ready-to-use materials, including Learning Ready Visuals, lesson plans, slideshows, and more. We’ll walk through how to access and navigate these resources on our website and demonstrate effective teaching strategies tailored to young learners.
Speakers
avatar for Denae Griffin

Denae Griffin

Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services
Wednesday July 30, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Room 104/105
  Breakout

11:00am EDT

Bomb Threat Assessment for Decision Makers
Wednesday July 30, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Room 108/109
The Bomb Threat Assessment for Decision Makers Course introduces the participant to types of threats, the threat assessment process, and the implementation of a Bomb Threat Management (BTM) plan. It provides activities for participants to apply specific portions of the risk management process and their newly acquired knowledge about BTM procedures to develop a risk assessment of a bomb threat.

Please bring a smart device with internet capabilities, this will be used for the end course assessment.
Speakers
avatar for Al Bunaugh

Al Bunaugh

Security Training and Assessment Specialist II, Fairfax County Public Schools
I've been a security professional for almost two decades.  I use everyday as a new opportunity to gain more knowledge and expertise to help teach and train my comrades and new generations.  I am a Fusion Liaison Officer, VA-DCJS School Security Officer Instructor, DCJS Crime Prevention... Read More →
Wednesday July 30, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Room 108/109
  Breakout

11:00am EDT

Building Resilient Schools Through Unified Leadership
Wednesday July 30, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Conference Room B
This breakout session will have participants examine the ways in which discipline, policies, and systems interact with students. Participants will gain a greater understanding of how having unified leadership at both the school and division levels can contribute to the overall school climate and resiliency of the schools. This session will provide opportunities to reflect on current practices while incorporating strategies for improvement.
Speakers
avatar for Matthew Woods, Ed.D.

Matthew Woods, Ed.D.

District Administrator and Educational Consultant, Leading Out The Woods LLC
Dr. Matthew Woods has served for more than 13 years assisting students, educators, and schools in a variety of roles. His professional experience includes being a high school social studies teacher, middle and high school assistant principal, middle school principal, director of student... Read More →
Wednesday July 30, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Conference Room B
  Breakout

11:00am EDT

Collaborating on Mental Health Support for Safer Schools 
Wednesday July 30, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Conference Room D
Division and school leadership, teachers, staff, school counselors, SROs, and psychologists all play an important role in the safety and well-being of students. However, they cannot work in silos. This session will explore how these vital roles align efforts to improve school climate, encourage student engagement, decrease truancy, and keep our youth safe during the school day. Useable strategies in the multi-tiered systems of support will be discussed.
Speakers
avatar for Sarah Ritchie

Sarah Ritchie

School Counselor and Division SEL Coordinator
Sarah Ritchie is a passionate and innovative school counselor with extensive experience supporting student mental health and fostering safe, inclusive school environments. As the 2023 Virginia School Counselor of the Year and a current board member with the Virginia School Counselor... Read More →
Wednesday July 30, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Conference Room D
  Breakout

11:00am EDT

Communicating Through Crisis: Key Tips for Schools
Wednesday July 30, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Room 106/107
In this session, attendees will explore effective critical incident response strategies for school safety leaders.  School leaders often find themselves at the center of a crisis and are responsible for communicating with staff, students, parents, and others about the situation. The form and scope of an incident can vary, but there are some key strategies you can use to effectively and quickly communicate with different audiences. By understanding these strategies, you can ensure that you are sharing the appropriate information in the most effective and timely way. Topics include: Examples of communication through various scenarios; Important content to include in key messages such as direction, status, actions, and compassion; Cautions in communication; Post-incident communication example; and Best practices of communication for public safety on threat-related incidents. Templates and an interactive resource guide will be provided.
Speakers
avatar for Steven MacDonald

Steven MacDonald

Senior Threat Analyst and Trainer, Safer Schools Together
After receiving a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of Victoria, Steven specialized in language analytics and artificial intelligence for major media corporations in the tech industry. As a member of the Safer Schools Together team, Steven specializes in... Read More →
LL
TC
Wednesday July 30, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Room 106/107
  Breakout

11:00am EDT

Safety in Numbers: Exploring the Relationship between Perceptions of Safety and Academic Achievement in Virginia Schools
Wednesday July 30, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Conference Room A
Do people perform better when they feel safe? Using data from the DCJS School Survey of Climate and Working Conditions and Virginia Department of Education Standards of Learning Test Results, this presentation demonstrates an observable relationship between the perceptions of safety reported by students, classroom instructors, and staff in Virginia schools and the academic performance of students at those schools.
Speakers
avatar for Jared Hagenow, CTM

Jared Hagenow, CTM

Threat Assessment Specialist, Arlington Public Schools
A Certified Threat Manager through the Association of Threat Assessment Professionals, Jared is a subject matter expert in Behavioral Threat Assessment and Management now supporting the Arlington Public Schools (APS) Office of Safety, Security & Emergency Management as a Threat Assessment... Read More →
Wednesday July 30, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Conference Room A
  Breakout

11:00am EDT

School-Based Prevention of Behavior Problems
Wednesday July 30, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Conference Room C
When dealing with misbehaving students, tensions often run high, and it is easy to forget to focus on the needs of the students. This workshop offers real strategies to keep a trauma-informed lens in working with students in these situations to lower tensions and realistically de-escalate and regulate emotions.
Speakers
avatar for Lori Wood

Lori Wood

Senior Director of Emergency & Short-term Stabilization Services, Region Ten Community Services Board
Lori Wood is a Senior Director at Region Ten Community Services Board in Charlottesville, VA. She is a graduate of Emory & Henry College and the University of Virginia and is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She is a master instructor with the Thomas Jefferson Area CIT program and... Read More →
Wednesday July 30, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Conference Room C
  Breakout

11:00am EDT

The Value of Relationships/Mentoring for SSO/SROs 
Wednesday July 30, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Room 102/103
This training highlights the importance of building positive relationships and mentoring students as a key role of School Security Officers (SSOs) and School Resource Officers (SROs). Participants will learn how strong connections can foster trust, improve school safety, and support student well-being. Through real-life examples and interactive discussions, this session provides practical strategies for effective mentorship and relationship-building within the school community.
Speakers
JB
Wednesday July 30, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Room 102/103
  Breakout

1:00pm EDT

Day 2 - Main Session Kickoff and DARE Awards
Wednesday July 30, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT
Grand Ballroom
- DARE Awards 
- Day 2 Announcements 
- Highlights from the Field 

Speakers
avatar for Donna Michaelis

Donna Michaelis

Division Director, DCJS
Wednesday July 30, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT
Grand Ballroom
  Keynote

2:00pm EDT

The Link Between School Culture, Climate, and Safety 
Wednesday July 30, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT
Grand Ballroom
In this powerful keynote, author and educator Stephanie Malia Krauss draws from her bestselling book Whole Child, Whole Life to describe how today's challenging times affect young people's sense of safety, resilience, and academic success. This talk explores what it takes to navigate uncertainty and thrive now and in the future. Through research-backed insights and practical strategies, participants will learn to identify warning signs that students need support and discover effective ways to balance school expectations with young people’s fundamental needs to feel protected, prepared, and cared for. 
Speakers
SM
Wednesday July 30, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT
Grand Ballroom
  Keynote

3:15pm EDT

CONFLICT TO CONNECTION: Build Positive Relationships with Students to Increase Outcomes
Wednesday July 30, 2025 3:15pm - 4:30pm EDT
Grand Ballroom
TBD
Speakers
avatar for Fabian Ramirez

Fabian Ramirez

Speaker | Author | Leadership Strategist
David is the only 5-language-speaking-motivational-comedian on the planet! David empathizes with diverse students who face challenges because he was once considered an “at-risk student” himself before defying the odds and graduating with a bachelor’s degree and then earning... Read More →
Wednesday July 30, 2025 3:15pm - 4:30pm EDT
Grand Ballroom
  Keynote
 
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