Center for Safe and Resilient Schools and Workplaces

05/05/2026

This School Principal’s Day we are honoring the principal of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School and CSR partner, Michelle Kefford. Her unique real-world experience of creating healing and trauma-informed environments is reflected in her school community every day. We are grateful for her willingness to share her knowledge and perspective as a part of our team of School Safey Consultants.

Michelle was selected as Principal of the Year for Broward County Public Schools in 2018, was inducted into the Broward Education Hall of Fame and was selected as Florida Principal of the Year in 2019. She was the 2020 NASSP (National Association of Secondary School Principals) Principal of the Year and selected as a finalist for the 2021 NASSP Principal of the Year. She is also the curriculum developer for our Moving Forward Together training to help support school administrators following a major crisis.

To learn more about Michelle’s work with our center, visit our website: https://lnkd.in/gCuD4SGx

05/05/2026

Sometimes, the most heroic acts come from the most unexpected places. 💫

In the aftermath of the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing, a shaken school community searched for stability and care. It wasn’t only trained professionals who stepped up to support the kindergarten students sheltered in the basement; it was also a cafeteria worker.

Without hesitation, she gathered the children, offering calm, reassurance, and a steady presence in a moment of fear. No formal training. Just instinct, compassion, and humanity. And it made all the difference.

Her actions didn’t go unnoticed. Dr. Marleen Wong, who was later asked to lead recovery efforts in Oklahoma City, was so moved by this story that she helped develop a school-based model of Psychological First Aid; equipping everyday staff, from teachers to cafeteria workers, with the tools to support students through crisis. ❤️‍🩹

In honor of School Lunch Hero Day, we honor that woman, and the countless unsung heroes like her working behind the scenes every day.

Learn more about their experience here:

02/26/2026

We’re excited to spotlight the incredible work happening at Lancaster School District! 🎉Earlier this month, over 800 staff members across 22 elementary schools were trained in trauma-responsive de-escalation practices, a powerful step toward creating safer, more supportive, and more understanding learning environments for every student. 💛

By investing in trauma-informed practices, Lancaster’s educators are strengthening relationships, building resilience, and ensuring students feel seen, heard, and valued every single day.

This is what commitment to whole-child education looks like! 👏

08/27/2025

As our students return to the classroom, it is heartbreaking to witness the return of violence alongside them. Our hearts are with all those affected by the recent shooting at Annunciation Church and School in Minneapolis. Our nation continues to endure the pain of senseless acts of violence, particularly within our schools which should be sanctuaries for learning and growth. We stand in solidarity with the Minneapolis community in their grief, and we remain unwavering in our commitment to ensuring that every child has the safe, nurturing environment they deserve.

For any trauma-informed and school safety resources, our website is below:
https://lnkd.in/g5S3FNXr

Adversity and trauma leave students, teachers, schools, and communities behind if not addressed. Responding comprehensively to the risks and impacts, The Center for Safe and Resilient Schools provides a range of trainings and consultations that deliver research-tested interventions and programs to s...

08/25/2025

⏰️ We still have spots remaining for the upcoming September live-virtual CBITS & Bounce Back trainings! Registration below!

Join us for Back-to-School...

05/08/2025

🧠💚 Today is Children’s Mental Health Day! 💚🧠
Let’s shine a light on the importance of nurturing young minds. Mental health is just as important as physical health, and every child deserves a safe space to express themselves, feel heard, and be supported.

💬 Talk.
👂 Listen.
🤝 Support.

Together, we can build a future where every child feels seen, strong, and emotionally empowered.