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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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The Effects of COVID-19 on Students Mental Health
May 10, 2022

The Effects of COVID-19 on Students’ Mental Health

For the last two years, nearly everyone has somehow been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. School-aged children are no exception. Studies have shown that mental health struggles brought on by the pandemic appear to be the most common affliction for them. 

LET’S DIVE INTO THE NUMBERS 

The American Psychological Association conducted a study of 107 high school students to assess the extent of any mental health struggles they may have experienced. This survey concluded that students of various ethnicities and socioeconomic backgrounds reported they had experienced some degradation in their mental health.

  • 77.4% of White students
  • 53.6% of Asian students
  • 50% of Black students

This data makes it clear that the impact of the pandemic has been far-reaching and unpredictable. 

WHAT ARE PARENTS NOTICING? 

In April 2022, NPR and Ipsos asked parents if they had seen symptoms of mental illness or other behavior changes in their child(ren). Parents reported they had seen an increase in anxiety, depression, learning disabilities, and attention disorders in their children.  

  • Increase in Anxiety: 19% 
  • Increase in Depression: 12% 
  • Increase in ADHD: 9% 
  • Increase in Another mental or emotional health issue: 6% 
  • Increase in A learning disability: 5% 

With the increase in symptoms parents are seeing, 73% of parents admitted that their child would benefit from mental health counseling and 78% believe social and emotional wellness programs are beneficial. 

WHAT SHOULD EDUCATORS BE LOOKING FOR? 

While specific mental health issues can present in various ways, many symptoms can overlay. Consult with a school counselor, nurse, or administrator and the student’s parents if you observe one or more of the following behaviors:

  • Feeling very sad or withdrawn for more than two weeks
  • Intense worries or fears that get in the way of daily activities
  • Extreme difficulty concentrating or staying still that puts the student in physical danger or causes problems in the classroom
  • Severe mood swings that cause problems in relationships
  • Drastic changes in the student’s behavior or personality

WHAT CAN SCHOOLS DO TO HELP? 

Educators can often be the first people to notice the signs of mental health issues. It is important that schools find ways to support the mental health of all students, not just individual students who may exhibit behavioral issues. In March 2022, the Department of Health and Human Services shared a list of School-Based Mental Health Services resources that included everything from early care to emergency response.  

By making a few changes and bringing awareness to teachers, staff, and administrators schools can create a space that cares for the emotional well-being of students that extends beyond the classroom. Here are a few things you can do to make that happen:

  • Educate staff, parents, and students on symptoms of and options for help with mental health problems
  • Teach and reinforce positive behaviors and decision-making
  • Promote social and emotional competency and build resilience
  • Help ensure access to school-based mental health supports 
  • Recognize when young people are at risk for or are experiencing mental health problems
  • Identify how to intervene early and appropriately when there are problems

It is evident that COVID-19 has had extensive impacts on so many of our lives. The upheaval of the academic structure has been difficult for kids, and as teachers and students return to the classroom, it is vital that awareness of these mental health issues and the indicating behaviors are at the forefront.

May 10, 2022
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