School Culture

How Rural Schools Are Redefining School Safety Through Relationships and Proactive Systems

On Principles of Change, a podcast by Raptor Technologies, host Dr. Amy Grosso sits down with Dr. Miguel Salazar, principal of Sundown Middle School in Sundown, Texas, to explore how one rural district is redefining school safety through culture, systems, and human connection. Together, they unpack how proactive frameworks, community values, and intentional relationship-building can…

Going Slow to Go Fast in School Safety Leadership

In this episode of the Principles of Change podcast, presented by Raptor Technologies, host Dr. Amy Grosso talks with Tim Dykes, Assistant Principal for Culture and Climate at York Community High School in Elmhurst, Illinois. The conversation highlights how strong relationships, student voice, and steady long-term leadership can help schools build environments where people feel…

Building Safer Schools Through Restorative Practices

School Safety Today podcast, presented by Raptor Technologies. In this episode of Principals of Change, host Dr. Amy Grosso sits down with D’Jon Pitchford, Assistant Principal at Kelly Lane Middle School in Pflugerville ISD, to explore what school safety really means. Pitchford reframes safety as more than physical security—emphasizing trust, restorative practices, campus culture,…

Beyond Drills: Building a Culture of Safety in Schools

School Safety Today podcast, presented by Raptor Technologies. In this episode of Principals of Change, host Dr. Amy Grosso sits down with Jeff Bryant, Principal of Jefferson Middle School, and David Sally, Associate Principal of West Aurora High School, to explore how effective school safety goes far beyond drills and locked doors. Drawing on…

Protecting Private Schools and Faith-Based Communities

School Safety Today podcast, presented by Raptor Technologies. In this episode of School Safety Today, host Dr. Amy Grosso speaks with Adam Coughran, founder of Safe Kids, Inc., about how private and faith-based schools can strengthen safety practices despite limited resources. KEY POINTS: Physical systems, community engagement, and knowledge must work together for effective…

Empowering Voices: The Role of Anonymous Reporting in Education

When students can report safety concerns without fear, schools unlock crucial information that protects entire communities

Approaching Safety and Regulatory Compliance with Intent and Purpose

Schools gain meaningful safety outcomes when compliance becomes part of their culture rather than just another box to check

Supporting Staff Wellbeing

A school district's mental health coordinator reveals how prioritizing educator wellness directly strengthens safety and reduces burnout across campuses

How Culture and Climate Shape School Security

Strong school cultures and positive climates prove foundational to preventing violence and breaches before security systems ever come into play

National Bullying Prevention Month: Hey Dude, Nice Shoes

A school safety expert reveals how kindness initiatives can transform bullying prevention from problem-spotting to solution-building

Secure Schools Begin with Empowered & Trained Staff

Staff training and preparedness emerge as the most critical defense against school security threats, outweighing expensive equipment investments