nSide™
nSide™

2023

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September 22, 2023

Understanding the Threats of Viral Social Media Challenges

In today’s digital age, social media has become an integral part of our lives, especially for adolescents. While it can be a valuable tool for connecting with friends and exploring one’s interests, it also poses significant risks, particularly when it comes to troublesome social media “challenges.” 

Social media platforms provide a space for creativity and self-expression but can also serve as a breeding ground for dangerous trends and challenges. In recent years, there have been numerous cases of students participating in risky challenges that have resulted in injuries, psychological trauma, and even death. Some of the most notable challenges include the “Tide Pod Challenge,” the “Devious Licks,” and, most recently, making false threats against schools. These challenges often gain popularity due to peer pressure, the desire for social validation, and the urge to be a part of a viral trend. 

Why Monitoring Your Child’s Social Media Accounts Matters

  1. Safety Concerns

The most compelling reason to monitor your child’s social media accounts is safety. Many of these challenges can lead to physical harm or emotional distress. By staying informed about your child’s online activities, you can identify warning signs and intervene if necessary.

  1. Peer Pressure

Adolescents are highly susceptible to peer pressure, especially in the online world, where they seek validation from their peers. Monitoring your child’s social media accounts allows you to understand their social interactions better and identify any negative influences. Having an open and honest conversation about the dangers of these challenges can help your child make informed decisions and resist peer pressure. 

  1. Cyberbullying and Harassment 

Social media challenges can sometimes lead to cyberbullying and harassment. Participating in a challenge that goes wrong can result in ridicule and humiliation online, which can have a severe on a child’s mental health.

  1. Educating about Digital Literacy

By actively monitoring your child’s social media use, you can take the opportunity to teach them about digital literacy and responsible online behavior. Discuss the importance of critical thinking, fact-checking, and respecting others’ privacy. 

By staying engaged in your child’s online presence and talking to them about the dangers associated with social media, you can help them navigate the complex landscape, make informed decisions, and develop the skills to use these platforms responsibly. Monitoring your child’s social media accounts is not about infringing on their privacy but about ensuring their safety and well-being in the digital world. Ultimately, it’s about fostering a healthy and balanced relationship with technology while keeping your child safe from harm. 

Want to know more about how nSide can help?

Email us: help@nside.io

Call us: 1-800-604-1822

September 22, 2023
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September 14, 2023

Who Should Attend the 2023 nSide School Safety Summit?

School safety is an ongoing and critical issue in education that requires a multifaceted approach. It is not enough to rely on just one individual or department to address this concern; rather, everyone within a school or district must take part in this mission. At nSide, we understand how daunting and intimidating the process may seem. The nSide School Safety Summit is designed to help your district take those first steps. By bringing together key players in this year’s summit, attendees will have the opportunity to learn about the latest safety measures and network with other professionals in the field.

Who Are the Key Players?

School Administrators: These dedicated professionals are the driving force behind shaping the policies and procedures that govern school safety. Their leadership is pivotal in creating a safe environment for all. 

Safety Coordinators: These experts specialize in risk assessment, emergency planning, and crisis management. They are essential in developing and fine-tuning safety protocols. 

Technology Coordinators: Technology plays a critical role in school safety. Coordinators oversee the implementation and maintenance of security systems and communication tools. 

Facilities Managers: Ensuring the physical safety of school buildings falls into the hands of the facilities managers. They typically oversee maintenance, structural integrity, and safety upgrades. 

School Nurses: These medical professionals are the first responders to health-related issues and emergencies within schools, making their presence indispensable. 

School Counselors: In addition to their counseling roles, they often serve as a critical support system for students dealing with personal issues or crises. 

School Resource Officers: SROs are law enforcement officers specifically trained to work in schools, promoting safety and positive relationships between students and law enforcement. 

Mental Health Professionals: As mental health challenges in schools continue to rise, having dedicated professionals on hand to address these issues is essential for a holistic approach to safety. 

Transportation Directors: Ensuring the safety of students during their commute to and from school is a top priority, and transportation directors play a crucial role in this regard. 

Local Emergency Services: Firefighters, paramedics, local law enforcement, and other emergency personnel provide support during crises and help schools prepare for a wide range of contingencies. These collaborative efforts are vital for addressing potential threats and ensuring a rapid response in emergencies.

Your Role Matters!

The nSide School Safety Summit presents a unique opportunity for all these key players to come together, connect, learn, and contribute to the collective effort to create safer educational environments for all. 

Whether you’re a school administrator, a safety coordinator, a counselor, or any other stakeholder, your role in school safety is pivotal. 

Ensuring the safety of students and staff is a collective responsibility. Don’t miss out on this chance to be a part of the solution. Your presence at the summit can make a significant difference in shaping the future of school safety. Together, we can create an environment where education can thrive. 

Early Bird Registration prices end October 1st, meaning, if you register and pay before October 1st, registration is $200; if you register and pay on or after October 1st, the cost of attendance is $250. Register today to claim your spot!

Register Today!

Want to know more about how nSide can help?

Email us: help@nside.io

Call us: 1-800-604-1822

September 14, 2023
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August 21, 2023

Huntsville City Schools Achieves Outstanding Success with nSide|Boost and nSide|Assess Integration

Florence, Alabama, August 15, 2023 — nSide: The School Safety Platform, a leading provider of innovative school safety solutions, is thrilled to announce the successful deployment of its cutting-edge technologies, nSide|Boost and nSide|Assess, within Huntsville City Schools (HCS). This collaboration has led to a transformative enhancement of the school district’s communication infrastructure and behavioral threat assessment protocols, creating a safer and more connected learning environment for students and staff alike.

HCS has taken a significant step forward in addressing communication challenges by deploying nSide|Boost at three of its schools. nSide|Boost, a cellular signal amplification system, has proven its worth by delivering an unparalleled 100% success rate in a recent trial run. The system enhances cell phone signals across all major carriers, enabling robust connectivity and ensuring that devices can transmit and receive communications without hindrance.

Jeffrey Wilson, HCS Director of Operations, stated,

“The bottom line is that what we have seen is that nSide|Boost makes an immediate difference once it’s turned on – and that is not hyperbole.”

It is common for schools to employ the use of mass notification and communication systems; however, Wilson pointed out that their efficacy is “only as great as your cell phone capabilities.” This swift and effective enhancement in communication has created a more efficient and connected school environment, ultimately contributing to improved safety and streamlined operations.

In addition to nSide|Boost, HCS has integrated nSide|Assess into its district-wide operations. nSide|Assess is a sophisticated digital case management solution within the nSide Platform, bringing together administrators and other professionals to identify and assist students in crisis. This revolutionary tool facilitates collaborative efforts in evaluating a student’s circumstances, well-being, and needs, ensuring they receive the necessary care and support.

Melissa Lindsey, HCS’s Executive Director of Prevention and Support Services, highlighted the significance of nSide|Assess, stating,

“One of the things with nSide|Assess and Threat Assessments, is it’s made it very clear that we have to take every threat in our district very seriously.”

nSide|Assess bolsters the district’s commitment to ensuring a safe and nurturing learning environment for all by fostering a proactive and comprehensive approach to potential threats and student welfare. 

The successful integration of nSide|Boost and nSide|Assess in their school safety operations underscores Huntsville City Schools’ dedication to leveraging innovative technologies and its commitment to enhancing school safety. As the district continues to embrace these solutions, it further solidifies its position as a forward-thinking district dedicated to the well-being and success of its students.

About nSide: The School Safety Platform:

nSide is a provider of comprehensive school safety solutions, dedicated to creating safe and secure learning environments for educational institutions across the nation. nSide offers an integrated platform that addresses all aspects of school security, from emergency preparedness to risk assessment and communication strategies.

nSide’s mission is to provide educators, administrators, and safety personnel with the resources they need to prioritize safety, enhance preparedness, and foster a culture of security within their schools.

August 21, 2023
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Lead Electronic Security Technician

Lead Electronic Security Technician

Job description

Company: nSide – The School Safety Platform

Location: Irondale, AL 35210

About nSide, Inc: At nSide, we are passionate about making schools safer. As a premier school safety solutions provider, we specialize in providing innovative and comprehensive solutions to help schools across the country create safe and secure learning environments for their students and staff. Our team of experts is committed to delivering exceptional service and support to our clients, and we are looking for an experienced Electronic Security Lead Technician to join us in this mission.

About the Role: As an Electronic Security Lead Technician at nSide, you will have the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of students and educators. You will be responsible for overseeing the installation and maintenance of electronic security systems in schools across the country. You will work closely with clients, vendors, and internal teams to ensure project objectives are met on time and within budget.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Install, maintain, and troubleshoot electronic security systems, including access control, CCTV, and intrusion detection systems
  • Lead a team of technicians and provide technical guidance as needed
  • Work closely with clients and vendors to ensure project requirements are met
  • Manage project timelines and budgets
  • Conduct site surveys and provide recommendations for system upgrades or replacements
  • Provide training to clients and end-users as needed
  • Document project progress and provide regular updates to senior management

Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent; associate’s degree or technical school training preferred
  • At least 3 years of experience in electronic security installation and maintenance, with a focus on access control, CCTV, and intrusion detection systems
  • Experience leading a team of technicians
  • Strong technical background in electronic security systems
  • Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work well under pressure and manage multiple priorities
  • Certifications from industry organizations such as AESBL, ESA, NICET, or BICSI are a plus

Compensation:

At nSide, we believe in compensating our employees fairly for their hard work and dedication. We offer competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, and more.

If you are passionate about school safety and security and have the qualifications we are looking for, we want to hear from you! Please submit your resume. We look forward to reviewing your application and learning more about how you can help us make schools safer.

Job Type: Full-time

Salary: $25.00 – $35.00 per hour

Benefits:

  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Parental leave
  • Vision insurance

Schedule:

  • 10 hour shift
  • Monday to Friday
  • On call

Supplemental pay types:

  • Bonus pay

Ability to commute/relocate:

  • Irondale, AL: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)

Education:

  • High school or equivalent (Required)

Experience:

  • Electronic Security: 3 years (Required)

License/Certification:

  • AESBL (Preferred)

Willingness to travel:

  • 50% (Required)

Work Location: In person

Apply Here!
July 23, 2023
0

Electronic Security Technician

Electronic Security Technician

Job description

Company: nSide – The School Safety Platform

Location: Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee

About nSide Inc: nSide Inc is a leading provider of comprehensive school safety solutions. Our innovative platform combines cutting-edge technology, data analysis, and proactive security measures to create safe and secure learning environments for students, teachers, and staff. We are dedicated to helping schools across the nation enhance their safety protocols and emergency preparedness.

Job Summary: We are seeking a skilled and experienced Electronic Security Technician to join our team. As an Electronic Security Technician at nSide Inc., you will play a vital role in the installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of electronic security systems in educational facilities. Your expertise will contribute to ensuring the safety and security of schools and educational institutions.

Responsibilities:

  • Install, program, and maintain electronic security systems, including CCTV cameras, access control systems, intrusion detection systems, and fire alarm systems.
  • Conduct regular inspections and preventive maintenance of security equipment to ensure optimal performance.
  • Diagnose and troubleshoot system issues, and perform repairs or replacements as needed.
  • Collaborate with clients and internal teams to design and implement effective security solutions tailored to their specific needs.
  • Keep up-to-date with industry trends and technological advancements related to electronic security systems.
  • Provide training and technical support to end-users on system operation and functionality.
  • Document work performed, including system configurations, installations, and repairs.
  • Adhere to safety guidelines and protocols while working on job sites.

Requirements:

  • High school diploma or equivalent; relevant certifications or vocational training in electronics, security systems, or a related field is preferred.
  • Proven experience as an Electronic Security Technician or in a similar role.
  • Strong knowledge of electronic security systems, including CCTV, access control, intrusion detection, and fire alarm systems.
  • Familiarity with relevant codes, regulations, and industry best practices.
  • Proficiency in using tools, test equipment, and software used in the installation and maintenance of electronic security systems.
  • Ability to read and interpret technical manuals, blueprints, and schematics.
  • Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
  • Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Valid driver’s license/clean driving record and ability to travel to client sites as needed.
  • Must be willing to travel Monday through Friday, home every weekend.

How to Apply: f you are passionate about school safety and interested in joining a dynamic team dedicated to making a difference, please submit your resume and cover letter to hr@nside.io. In your cover letter, please highlight your relevant experience and explain why you believe you would be a valuable addition to the nSide, Inc. team.

Benefits: nSide, Inc. offers competitive compensation and benefits packages, including health, dental, and vision insurance, and opportunities for professional growth and development. Overtime and bonus opportunities.

Note: Only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted. We thank all applicants for their interest in nSide Inc.

Company: nSide – The School Safety Platform

Location: Alabama and Mississippi

About nSide Inc: nSide Inc is a leading provider of comprehensive school safety solutions. Our innovative platform combines cutting-edge technology, data analysis, and proactive security measures to create safe and secure learning environments for students, teachers, and staff. We are dedicated to helping schools across the nation enhance their safety protocols and emergency preparedness.

nSide, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, veteran status, genetic information or any other legally protected class.

Job Type: Full-time

Salary: $15.00 – $25.00 per hour

Benefits:

  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance

Schedule:

  • No weekends
  • Supplemental pay types:
  • Bonus opportunities
  • Monday to Friday

Education:

  • High school or equivalent (Preferred)

Experience:

  • Electronic Security: 2 years (Required)

License/Certification:

  • AESBL (Preferred)

Willingness to travel:

  • 75% (Preferred)

Work Location: On the road

Apply Here!
July 23, 2023
0

Outside Sales-Tennessee (Remote)

Outside Sales-Tennessee (Remote)

Job Description

nSide is a school safety company based in Florence, Alabama that cares for today’s most pressing threats and security challenges. We strive to answer the hard questions and provide the best solutions for school safety, as we integrate all threads of communication alongside advanced technologies. After more than a decade of serving in over 3,600 different schools, we need someone to join our efforts in keeping children and teachers safe.

  • Group health and dental insurance is offered for eligible nSide employees through Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama.
  • Group vision insurance is offered for eligible nSide employees through VSP insurance group.
  • Both the health and vision insurance offerings include individual and family coverage.
  • A group life insurance plan for eligible employees is offered by nSide through UNUM insurance group. The group life insurance plan is fully paid by nSide.

Qualifications

  • Position requires 5+ years related K-12 sales experience
  • BA/BS degree in a related field with a strong academic record.
  • A leadership mindset: passionate about leading effective teams through intentional coaching and feedback mechanisms
  • Ability to lead collaboration with team members of diverse experiences and technical capabilities
  • Adeptly build and manage relationships with various diverse stakeholders, both internal and external, to meet common goals.
  • Ability to communicate effectively through oral and written communication, including formal presentation skills
  • Previous customer relationship experience with a proven track record of meeting or exceeding targets
  • Ability to build, foster, and maintain positive professional relationships
  • Demonstrated ability to operate at both strategic and tactical levels, proving value at multiple levels in a customer organization
  • Commitment to high-quality customer service
  • Strong interpersonal skills and an ability to build rapport with customers and internal teams
  • Organized approach to work
  • Electronic Security Systems Experience helpful (Video, Access Control, etc.)
  • Knowledge of relationship management best practices
  • Problem solving and conflict resolution capabilities
  • Willing to develop an in-depth understanding of the business and related services.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Work collaboratively with Product Management, Marketing and Engineering during the development, launch and continuing refinement of existing and new nSide products.
  • Respond to initial product requests and frame product issues for discussion and resolution with Product and Engineering teams
  • Develop/maintain technical and business knowledge of industry directions and trends
  • Ability to consistently schedule high level meetings with districts that are customers and those who use a competing product/solution.
  • Effectively articulate an in depth understanding of customer needs
  • Experience closing contracts in the $100K+ range and coordinating with large district accounts that are centralized and decentralized.

Daily Processes:

  • Engage in all facets of the sales process
  • Assist with sales projects and campaign activities
  • Maintain and expand relationships with current partners
  • Leverage existing school and district contacts
  • Market to District Administrators, School Administrators, and Teachers
  • Assist with territory lead generation, qualification, and opportunity creation
  • Engage in a variety of Outreach Strategies (Cold Calls, Emails, Cold Drop-Ins, etc.)
  • Provide excellent customer support to ensure successful product implementation and secure renewals
  • Deliver virtual and in-person webinars regarding product introductions and demonstrations that explain product offerings, features, and benefits to increase new, add-on, and renewal sales
  • Deliver and participate in virtual and in-person conferences
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Job Type: Full-time

Salary: $90,000.00 – $120,000.00 per year

Benefits:

  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Mileage reimbursement
  • Paid time off
  • Travel reimbursement
  • Vision insurance

Schedule:

  • Monday to Friday

Education:

  • Bachelor’s (Preferred)

Experience:

  • K-12 sales: 5 years (Preferred)

License/Certification:

  • Driver’s License (Preferred)

Willingness to travel:

  • 25% (Preferred)

Work Location: Remote

Apply Here!
July 23, 2023
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July 5, 2023

It is time to update EOPs for the 2023-2024 School Year

Each year, all Emergency Operations Plans (EOP) for the previous school year expire and school districts across the nation are required to review their EOP to ensure it is up-to-date and in compliance with state regulations. Emergencies can occur anytime in an educational setting. This requires prompt and effective measures to protect everyone on campus. In such situations, schools with well-prepared and frequently reviewed EOPs can rapidly respond, prevent mishaps, and save lives.

Why are Updated Emergency Operations Plans Important? 

Enhanced Preparedness: An updated Emergency Operations Plan reflects the most current knowledge, best practices, and lessons learned from previous incidents. It allows organizations to incorporate new technologies, strategies, and resources that can enhance their preparedness and response capabilities. 

Compliance with Regulations and Standards: Each state has specific regulations and standards in place that require organizations to have updated Emergency Operations Plans. Staying compliant ensures that organizations meet legal requirements and avoid potential penalties or liabilities. 

Improved Coordination and Communication: An updated Emergency Operations Plan promotes effective coordination and communication among various stakeholders involved in emergency response. It outlines clear roles, responsibilities, and protocols, enabling different departments, agencies, and individuals to work together seamlessly during a crisis. 

Continuous Improvement: Regularly updating Emergency Operations Plans allows organizations to identify areas for improvement based on feedback, evaluations, and new information. It provides an opportunity to learn from previous incidents and incorporate lessons learned into future planning, leading to a more effective emergency management system. 

How nSide Can Help

As an nSide user, you can easily check to see if your school’s EOP is compliant or not or check in with our live chat. Our team of experts can generate a comprehensive report that compares your EOP against the state’s regulations, which enables you to identify areas that need improvement. This significantly reduces the time and effort required when updating your EOPs. If you need assistance with formatting your EOPs or are due for compliance monitoring in the upcoming 2023-2024 school year, we are here to guide you through,  every step of the way. You can rely on the nSide platform to provide a hassle-free and effective solution that ensures your school is in compliance with all the necessary regulations and your students and staff are safe. 

If you need help with your EOP updates or have questions about how to make the necessary changes, reach out to us!

Email us: help@nside.io

Call us: 1-800-604-1822

July 5, 2023
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May 12, 2023

Misconceptions about School Safety

Our society is always on the lookout for fresh approaches to enhance the safety of our educational institutions. In fact, school safety has gained increasing attention in recent years due to the tragic incidents that have occurred in schools in the United States and across the globe. Unfortunately, with the growing attention comes a lot of misconceptions and misinformation about keeping students and staff safe. Ultimately, these misconceptions can lead to ineffective policies and a false sense of security.

Misconception #1: Because There is a Policy, Everyone Knows About it

One common misconception about school safety is that just because there is a policy in place, everyone knows about it. This, however, is often not the case. Many schools may have policies on paper but fail to effectively distribute and communicate these policies to students, staff, and parents. This lack of communication can result in confusion during emergency situations and ineffective response when it really matters. Therefore, it is crucial for schools to not only create policies but also to ensure that everyone is aware of them and that they are regularly reviewed and updated as needed.

The nSide Platform brings all of the appropriate parties who need to be involved and aware of safety policies and procedures together and shares that information across the organization. When information is disseminated to a wide variety of people, it soon becomes “common knowledge.” By utilizing the platform, schools can ensure that safety policies and procedures are regularly reviewed and updated as needed and that everyone is aware of them. With features such as real-time emergency notifications, incident reporting, and tracking of safety drills and training, nSide helps create a culture of safety and awareness in schools.

Misconception #2: Active Shooter Situations are the Only Safety Threat in Schools

While active shooter situations are a significant concern in schools, they are not the only safety threat. Other safety concerns include natural disasters, medical emergencies, bullying, cyberbullying, and more. Schools should have protocols in place to address all potential safety threats and should regularly review and update their safety plans to ensure they are comprehensive and up-to-date.

nSide can help your schools manage their EOP by providing a centralized platform to create, store, and manage their safety plans. Our Emergency Operations Planning system provides a framework for creating a comprehensive safety plan that addresses different types of emergencies. The platform also allows schools to track their safety drills and training and to easily update their safety plans as needed. By utilizing the nSide platform, schools can ensure that their safety plans are always up-to-date and easily accessible in case of an emergency.

Misconception #3: School Safety is Solely the Responsibility of School Administrators

It is true that school administrators are responsible for creating and implementing safety protocols and procedures. However, school safety is everyone’s responsibility. Teachers, students, staff, parents, and local first responders all play a vital role in the process of planning, preparing, and preventing emergency events. Teachers and staff members should be trained in recognizing and reporting concerning behavior, and students should be taught to report any safety concerns to adults. Parents can also help by engaging with their children and observing their behavior and mental health status, and reporting any concerning behavior to the appropriate entities, such as their school. 

However, there are other key players in this as well:

Facilities Directors

Facilities directors can play a crucial role in school safety. They are responsible for ensuring that school buildings and grounds are well-maintained and safe. This includes conducting regular safety checks, identifying potential hazards, and ensuring that safety equipment, such as fire extinguishers and smoke detectors, are in good working order. Facilities directors should also work closely with school administrators to ensure that safety protocols and procedures are in place and that everyone is aware of them.

Coaches

Coaches also play an important role in school safety. They often have close relationships with their athletes and can be a valuable resource in identifying and addressing safety concerns. Coaches should be trained to recognize and report concerning behavior and should also be aware of the school’s safety protocols and procedures. In addition, coaches can help promote a positive school culture by encouraging teamwork and respect among their athletes.

Local First Responders

Local first responders, such as police officers, firefighters, and EMTs, play a critical role in school safety. They are often the first responders in emergency situations and can provide valuable assistance in securing the school and protecting students and staff. Schools should work closely with local emergency responders to ensure that their safety plans are effective and to establish clear lines of communication in case of an emergency. Regular training exercises with local emergency responders can also help ensure a coordinated response in case of an emergency.

By working together, the entire school community can create a safer environment for everyone.

Dismissing the pitfalls related to the misconceptions of school safety can lead to policies and procedures that are ineffective, costly, and even dangerous. It is essential to be aware of these misconceptions and to approach school safety with evidence-based strategies that prioritize the well-being of all students. By doing so, we can create safer, more secure learning environments for everyone. Schools should focus on creating a positive school culture that addresses the social and emotional needs of students, implementing comprehensive safety plans, and working closely with law enforcement officials to ensure that their safety plans are effective.

nSide provides a comprehensive approach to school safety that goes beyond just physical security measures. Our platform offers a range of tools and resources that address the many factors that contribute to school safety, including emergency operations planning, behavioral threat assessment case management, communication tools, and compliance tracking. By taking a comprehensive approach to school safety and consolidating your technology, information, and personnel into one platform, your school can avoid these common safety misconceptions. 

Want to know more about how nSide can help?

Email us: help@nside.io

Call us: 1-800-604-1822

May 12, 2023
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May 2, 2023

Mental Health and Threat Assessment

Behavioral assessment is an essential tool that can help prevent and manage an array of challenges in schools. It involves identifying and evaluating potential threats posed by individuals and developing strategies to address them. By using a threat assessment approach, schools can identify students who are at risk of harming themselves or others and provide them with the necessary support and intervention.

A threat assessment team is typically composed of individuals with different backgrounds and areas of expertise who work together to assess potential threats and risks to the school community. The composition of the team may vary depending on the school district’s policies and procedures but typically includes the following:

  • School Administrators
  • School Psychologist or mental health professional 
  • School Counselor
  • School Resource Officer 
  • Teacher or staff member

Mental health challenges are a significant concern for schools today. Students may experience stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions that can impact their academic performance, behavior, and social interactions. Moreover, students who are struggling with mental health challenges may be at risk of engaging in dangerous behaviors such as self-harm or violence toward others.

By implementing a threat assessment approach, schools can better identify and address these risks. The threat assessment process typically involves several steps:

  1. Identify the threat: This involves identifying students who are exhibiting concerning behaviors. It may also involve identifying students who are struggling with mental health challenges, such as anxiety or depression, and who may be at risk of engaging in dangerous behaviors. 
  2. Gather information: This involves interviewing the student, speaking with teachers and other appropriate school personnel, reviewing the student’s academic and disciplinary records, and consulting with mental health professionals and law enforcement as needed. 
  3. Assess the risk: This involves evaluating the potential harm the student may pose to themselves or others. Based on this assessment, school administrators can determine the appropriate level of intervention needed to address the situation.
  4. Develop a plan: This involves creating a personalized plan for the student based on their specific needs and circumstances. It is important to keep in mind that while there are common warning signs, mental health struggles can look different in every student.
  5. Implement the plan: This involves putting the plan into action and providing ongoing support and monitoring for the student. This may include working with mental health professionals, school staff, and the student’s family to ensure that everyone is aware of the situation and knows how to respond if necessary.

The nSide platform offers a behavioral threat assessment case management system that allows those teams to easily monitor, manage, and store all threat assessment cases.  This provides a centralized location for all threat assessment information, allowing appropriate personnel to follow cases through to the end, quickly access and review past cases, as well as identify patterns and trends that may require further action.

nSide is proud to offer a platform that houses everything related to school safety in one central location to make it easier to access, share the responsibility, and maintain it year after year. We use this connected technology to bring together everyone in your school community, including administrators, SROs, teachers, students, law enforcement, and EMS. Everything we offer is centered around connecting these groups to make reactions quick and directions clear. We work to help you create an environment that not only saves lives but also creates an environment that feels safe so learning can flourish.

Want to know more about how nSide can help?

Email us: help@nside.io

Call us: 1-800-604-1822

May 2, 2023
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Blog Banner A Disjointed Approach to School Safety
April 19, 2023

A Disjointed Approach to School Safety

It is necessary that schools take a comprehensive and cohesive approach to ensuring the safety of their students and staff. If school safety procedures and protocols are inconsistent or unclear, it can lead to uncertainty and insecurity, negatively impacting the learning environment. A disjointed approach can undermine the trust and confidence that students, faculty,  staff, and parents have in a school’s ability to keep them safe. 

It is easy to see how confusion can ensue when the elements of school safety planning are all housed in different apps, software, or physical locations. For example, elements of school safety planning and where they are often housed can look like this:

In addition to the locations of these elements, it is important to consider how easily accessible these elements are for all relevant personnel. An integrated school safety management system that combines all the elements of school safety, such as emergency response plans, threat assessments, and incident reporting, into a single, ready-to-use platform can reduce fragmentation and increase access to information for those who need it. Utilizing such systems makes it easier to reduce confusion and increase the effectiveness of such measures. 

Additionally, schools should prioritize communication and collaboration among all members involved in school safety. This includes regular training sessions, drills, and meetings with local emergency response agencies to ensure that everyone is on the same page and working together to keep the school and community safe. Here are 5 steps that schools can take to address the issue:

  1. Conduct a thorough assessment of the current safety measures: Schools should evaluate their existing safety procedures and identify any gaps or inconsistencies that need to be addressed. This assessment should involve input from all stakeholders to ensure that a variety of perspectives are being taken into account. 
  2. Develop a comprehensive safety plan: Based on the assessment, schools should develop a comprehensive safety plan that outlines specific steps to address any gaps or weaknesses in their current approach. The plan should include clear protocols for responding to emergencies, as well as strategies for preventing incidents from occurring in the first place. 
  3. Provide training and education: Schools should provide training and education to all staff and students to ensure they understand the safety protocols and know how to respond in an emergency. This training should be ongoing and regularly updated to ensure everyone is prepared. nSide Training focuses on using the nSide Platform, as well as school safety best practices such as drills, tabletop exercises, threat assessments, and assemblies. 
  4. Utilize technology: Technology can be a valuable tool in enhancing school safety. Schools can use security cameras, 360-mapping, fleet tracking, access management, and more to monitor the school environment and identify potential threats. Integrating the nSide Suite of Products into your existing emergency management systems can help put you on the right path toward keeping your schools safe. 
  5. Foster a culture of safety: Districts should work to foster a culture of safety that encourages all members of the community to be vigilant and proactive when it comes to safeguarding our schools. This can be achieved through regular communication and outreach to students, staff, and parents, as well as through the establishment of relationships with local first responders and emergency management organizations.

It is essential that schools take a holistic approach to school safety, bringing together all the necessary elements in a coordinated and accessible manner. By conducting a thorough assessment, developing a comprehensive safety plan, providing training and education, utilizing technology, and fostering a culture of safety, schools can create a safer and more secure environment for their students, staff, and community. 

nSide, Inc.™ is proud to offer a platform to house your school’s safety plans. Please take a moment to familiarize yourself with all we have to offer to help keep schools safe.

Email us at help@nside.io so that we can help you build the best safety plan for your school!

April 19, 2023
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