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Posted by Grace Watkins

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March 5, 2024

The Benefits of Dynamic Mapping

In the world of school safety, where split-second decisions can make all the difference, the tools we choose matter more than ever. Because of this, the reliance on traditional paper maps is becoming a dated practice, paving the way for a more efficient and advanced solution – dynamic mapping. 

Real-Time Information for Rapid Response

One of the key advantages of dynamic mapping is its ability to provide real-time information. Unlike paper maps that offer a static view of the surroundings, dynamic mapping allows schools to stay ahead of evolving situations. In critical emergencies, where every second counts, nSide mapping ensures everyone involved in the response, from first responders to school administrators, can access the same real-time data. Our centralized platform eliminates the risk of miscommunication or conflicting information.

Enhancing Communication and Collaboration

Paper maps can hinder effective communication during emergencies. Dynamic mapping from nSide fosters seamless collaboration among response teams by providing a centralized platform for real-time information sharing, ensuring that everyone involved in the response is on the same page. This immediate access to real-time data allows responders, whether they are on-site or coordinating remotely, to make informed decisions collaboratively. 

Clarity Beyond Visibility

While paper maps offer a visual overview, dynamic mapping takes clarity to the next level. nSide’s platform incorporates features such as locations of emergency equipment, room information, staging areas, live camera feeds, and more, providing schools with unparalleled visibility even in challenging conditions. nSide|Views are 360° hallway images that provide a virtual campus that users can navigate through and delve deeper into the architecture and systems in place without ever setting foot in the building (think Google Street View – but for your school!) These maps are intended to be routinely maintained with the most up-to-date information, making them readily available in the event of an emergency.

The nSide Difference

Choosing nSide means selecting more than just a mapping tool; it means embracing a comprehensive safety platform. The future of school safety lies in the transformative power of dynamic mapping. By embracing this technology, schools can enhance visualization, improve situational awareness, and integrate seamlessly with other safety technologies. As we move forward, it is vital for school administrators, lawmakers, and community members to recognize the role of dynamic mapping in revolutionizing safety measures in education. Embracing new technologies is not just a step forward; it is a leap toward a safer, more secure learning environment for all.

nSide is here to help you create a safe environment in your schools so children can flourish and learning can thrive. See how our solutions can easily make school safety a foundational element of your school’s culture.

Request nSide’s Free Dynamic Mapping Guide

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 safety within their schools.

Want to know more about how nSide can help?

Email us: help@nside.io

Call us: 1-800-604-1822

March 5, 2024
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March 1, 2024

Live with nSide: February 2024

March 1, 2024
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February 28, 2024

School Mapping Project with Hanna Public Schools Successfully Completed

HANNA, OKLAHOMA, February 28, 2024 — nSide, The School Safety Platform, is proud to announce the successful completion of a nSide|Mapping project in collaboration with Hanna Public Schools in Hanna, Oklahoma.

This project provides Hanna Public Schools with cutting-edge dynamic mapping solutions to ensure a safer and more secure environment for students, teachers, and staff. 

nSide|Views provides users with detailed 360° images of their campus and allows a virtual walkthrough. nSide uses a specialized mapping process to provide the same user-friendly look and feel of Google Street View inside your buildings. Each image acts as a strategic point of reference, empowering school administrators to make informed decisions during emergencies and streamline safety protocols. 

Upon completion of the project, 4 buildings were mapped, and over 100 nSide|Views were captured. 

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 safety within their schools.

Want to know more about how nSide can help?

Email us: help@nside.io

Call us: 1-800-604-1822

February 28, 2024
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November 17, 2023

What to Expect at nSide’s 2023 School Safety Summit

Our 2023 School Safety Summit is officially less than three weeks away! 

This year’s Summit is December 4-6, 2023, at the Orange Beach Event Center in Orange Beach, Alabama. The nSide office is busy preparing for an eventful conference that will allow school leaders to connect and learn new ways to help keep schools safe. 

So, what exactly can attendees expect from Safety Summit 2023? 

This year’s agenda is jam-packed with speakers, workshops, and networking opportunities. 

The keynote speaker for this year is Mr. John Calvert. After a 12-year career in Law Enforcement, 6 of which served as a School Resource Officer, Mr. Calvert accepted a position with the Kansas State Department of Education and is now the Director of the Safe and Secure Schools Unit. He is a strong believer that nothing can change without building positive relationships and believes that change in our schools should be student-led. You can read his full bio here. 

Mr. Calvert will be presenting at 1:30 pm on December 4 and also hosting a breakout session on December 5th. A big thank you to our keynote sponsor, Rhombus Systems, for making these incredible sessions possible! 

Along with Mr. Calvert, we have some of the best subject matter experts in the country joining us to cover breakout session topics such as – Behavioral Threat Assessment, Transportation Safety, Recognizing Crises with Children/Adolescents, Navigating Uncivil Discourse in Public Meetings, Trauma Informed Drills, Understanding and Responding to Cyber-Based Threats, and Designing Crime Out of Schools Through CPTED. Click here to get a sneak peek at this year’s program.

The full agenda is posted below: 

2023-Safety-Summit-Agenda-Preliminary-Agenda-1

This year we are joined by some amazing sponsors and exhibitors – Rhombus Systems, Eagle Eye Networks, Kisi Inc., GetWireless, CoolVu of Birmingham SE, Brivo Access, Busby-Maiello, and S&W Integrated Safety Solutions (SWISS). Thank you to these organizations for helping make this event possible.

Who should attend the School Safety Summit? 

School safety is a multi-faceted issue and involves the participation of many folks from a school and/or district’s staff. Here are just a few of the people we suggest participating in this event: 

SuperintendentsSRO/SSOFacilities Managers
PrincipalsTechnology CoordinatorsSchool Counselors
Safety CoordinatorsAssistant PrincipalsSchool Nurses

We are beyond excited for this year’s Safety Summit and look forward to seeing you in just a few weeks in Orange Beach! If you have not registered yet, please go to nside.io/safety-summit. 

Still have questions about Safety Summit 2023? Please contact Bree Barksdale at bree.barksdale@nside.io

Sources:

School Safety Summit

November 17, 2023
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November 8, 2023

The Importance of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) in Schools

Ensuring the safety of our schools is a shared responsibility that encompasses not only security personnel but the entire school community. Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) offers a comprehensive approach to creating secure, inviting, and productive learning environments. By implementing CPTED principles, schools can deter criminal activity, enhance the perception of safety, promote community involvement, and improve the overall educational experience for students and staff. 

In an era where security is paramount, CPTED is a vital tool in safeguarding our schools and securing our future. Research has shown that crime occurrences can drop by as much as 70% after design interventions. The real power and effectiveness of a CPTED program lies in the fact that all the parties involved in the process can benefit. This includes the school district, staff, students, and the community.  

Deterrence of Criminal Activity

One of the primary goals of CPTED is to create a physical environment that discourages criminal behavior. By implementing strategies such as well-lit walkways, visible entrances, and strategically placed security cameras, schools send a strong message that they prioritize safety. Criminals are less likely to target facilities that present clear obstacles to their activities, making CPTED a powerful deterrent.

Enhanced Sense of Security 

The perception of safety is just as crucial as actual safety. CPTED seeks to bolster the feeling of security within schools by minimizing opportunities for crime. When students, staff, and parents perceive their educational environment as secure, it leads to reduced anxiety, improved concentration, and an overall better learning experience.

Cost-Effective Measures

Investing in CPTED strategies can be a cost-effective approach to school security. By addressing safety concerns during the initial design and construction phase of a school, it is often more affordable than retrofitting security measures later. Moreover, many CPTED strategies, such as natural surveillance through landscaping, can be implemented in established schools at a relatively low cost and can be highly effective in enhancing security.

Evaluate Your Schools With Our Free CPTED School Assessment

The objective of the Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) School Assessment is to evaluate the physical parts of the school which may have an impact on youth fear and aggressive behavior. 

Request a download of our free assessment to find out how your schools’ exterior and interior spaces rank on a CPTED scale.

Not only does nSide help with keeping your schools safer internally, but we also know how important it is that schools be just as safe on the outside.

Want to know more about how nSide can help?

Email us: help@nside.io

Call us: 1-800-604-1822

November 8, 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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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

Request More Information!
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

Request More Information!
May 2, 2023
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