By Robert Jordan, Founder — Protecting Our Students, Inc.
School Shooting Prevention, Response, Mitigation, and Recovery Resources for K-12 Campuses. School shootings are devastating; the impact of even one incident is shocking. Every K-12 campus must prepare for the possibility of violence—whether targeted, random, or the result of a dispute. For school leaders, the challenge often lies in knowing where to begin. Requirements and leading practices evolve constantly, and the stakes are incredibly high.
At Protecting Our Students, Inc., our mission is to support schools by providing clear, actionable guidance and tools that promote student safety and well-being. This article highlights best practices for preventing, mitigating, responding to, and recovering from active shooter incidents and other campus emergencies. It also points to resources schools can lean on at each stage of the safety cycle.
While no program can eliminate every risk, the steps outlined below can significantly reduce vulnerabilities and improve recovery outcomes in the event of a tragedy.
Access Control: The First Line of Defense
Strong access control is one of the most effective ways to protect schools and their students. Ideally, campuses should have a secure vestibule that directs all visitors through a single monitored entrance.
At the same time, first responders must be able to enter quickly during a crisis. Schools should ensure police, fire, and EMS have keys, access cards, or other secure entry methods that won’t slow response times.
Visitor Management
- Implement visitor management systems to screen guests and track who is on campus.
- These systems allow schools to quickly identify individuals who should not be there and account for all occupants during emergencies.
Classroom Door Locks
- Equip every classroom with locks that secure from the inside.
- Ensure compliance with ADA, NFPA, and local fire safety codes.
Window Security Film
- Apply shatter-resistant window film in strategic areas to slow down threats while maintaining safe evacuation routes.
Metal Detectors (as appropriate)
- While controversial, metal detectors have successfully intercepted weapons.
- Consider random use during school hours to deter contraband while balancing school culture.
Layered Security Technologies
Technology complements human readiness. Beyond access control, schools should consider:
- Panic Alarms & Buttons → empower staff to alert authorities quickly.
- Emergency Communication Systems → updated notification platforms for lockdowns, evacuations, or shelter-in-place.
- Security Cameras → give law enforcement live access during crises and provide critical evidence afterward.
- Anonymous Tip Lines → proven life-saving tools that encourage reporting of threats or concerning behavior.
Training & Mental Health Resources
Technology means little without trained people.
- Staff & Student Training → regular drills, lockdown procedures, and training on using safety technologies are essential.
- Threat Assessment Teams → multidisciplinary groups that track and intervene with individuals exhibiting concerning behavior.
- Mental Health Resources → increased access to counseling and student support services reduces risks at the root.
Learning from Tragedy
Every incident carries lessons. Schools must review shootings and violent events across the country to improve their own practices. This includes refining emergency plans, adjusting technologies, and ensuring systems for family reunification are in place.
Additional Best Practices
- Partner with local first responders well before a crisis occurs.
- Employ trained school resource officers (SROs) or campus police with specialized training.
- Hire qualified security contractors who understand both education settings and code compliance.
- Maintain up-to-date emergency plans and practice regularly.
- Provide long-term mental health care for students and staff following an incident.
Final Word
There is no single solution to school shootings. But with strong partnerships, layered security, practical training, and a commitment to mental health, schools can reduce risks and prepare to respond effectively.
At Protecting Our Students, Inc., we believe safety is a shared responsibility. Schools that act now to strengthen their partnerships with law enforcement, first responders, and their communities will be best positioned to prevent tragedy and recover if the unthinkable occurs.
