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Hey there, guardians of the next generation: moms, dads, aunties, uncles, teachers, school staff, and community champions,
Let’s talk about something that’s deeply important but doesn’t always get the spotlight it deserves: School Safety Planning. Not the buzzy headline kind, but the real, strategic, behind-the-scenes work that keeps our kids safe before there’s ever a crisis.
I had the chance to attend one of these sessions hosted by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) earlier this year, and let me tell you, I walked away with insight I didn’t even know I needed. As a cybersecurity analyst and a mom, I left feeling more prepared, more connected, and honestly, more empowered to ask the right questions in my daughter’s school community.
And now, you can join too, from the comfort of your own screen.
🗓️ What’s Happening?
CISA School Safety Virtual Training
📅 Date: Thursday, May 15, 2025
🕒 Time: 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. EDT
💻 Where: Online via Microsoft Teams Live
🎟️ Register here: K12summerplanning.eventbrite.com
🧐 Wait, What Is CISA Anyway?
If you’ve never heard of CISA, you’re not alone. But trust me, you want to know them.
CISA stands for Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, and they’re the guardians of our nation’s critical infrastructure — think hospitals, energy grids, water systems, and yes… our schools. They work to prevent, protect, and respond to emergencies — both in the digital world and the physical one.
In the K-12 space, CISA is doing some incredible work helping schools prepare for everything from cyberattacks to active shooter events to natural disasters. They’re not just checking boxes, they’re building real, actionable strategies that local communities can use, even with limited resources.
Why This Training Matters
Let’s be real, summer break is usually about sunscreen, snacks, and a break from the morning routine. But behind the scenes, it’s also prime time for schools to update and rethink their emergency preparedness plans.
This training is especially geared toward:
- School & district administrators
- Emergency managers
- School security staff
- Teachers & counselors
- Parents and guardians (yes, YOU!)
During this one-hour session, you’ll hear from seasoned experts on:
- The current national threat landscape (what’s really happening, not just what’s trending)
- How to assess risks in your local school district
- Lessons learned from past incidents
- And how to plan effectively even if resources are tight
It’s not just theory, it’s practical advice, tools, and guidance you can take back to your school, your PTA, or even your dinner table conversations.
Why Parents and Guardians Should Show Up
Let me say this plainly: your voice matters in school safety planning.
Parents are the heartbeat of school communities. You ask the hard questions. You notice the little gaps. You advocate for what kids need, and you have every right to be part of this conversation.
Whether you’re worried about bullying, school lockdown protocols, or even how your school is protecting kids’ data in an age of increasing digital threats, this is your opportunity to get informed.
You don’t need a title. Just curiosity and a commitment to your child’s future.
School safety isn’t just a job for administrators or law enforcement; it’s a shared responsibility, and it starts with awareness. So mark your calendar. May 15. One hour. One link. One powerful conversation that could make all the difference. Let’s show up. Let’s be informed. Let’s keep our schools safe together.
Learn more about https://www.cisa.gov/.
AQ'S Corner 
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