Collaborate First, Don’t Outsource

When school districts search for the “secret recipe” to strengthen their school safety, security, and emergency management programs, many may turn to an outside consultant for answers. While consultants can offer valuable perspectives, school leaders must proceed carefully — especially when the outside firm makes safety and/or security recommendations that do not fit within the district’s culture or appetite to implement. 

School safety and security are inherently local issues. Every district already employs people who understand their campuses, culture, and community — individuals who live and breathe the daily realities of keeping schools safe. These internal stakeholders can contribute meaningful insight, helping shape decisions that are practical, sustainable, and aligned with the district’s mission.

Rather than relying solely on a consultant’s recommendations, school districts might achieve better outcomes by first gathering input from staff, first responders, and community partners. Then, use a consultant’s expertise to refine those locally driven ideas — narrowing down technologies, verifying compliance, and identifying cost-effective solutions that fit the district’s specific needs.

The goal isn’t to avoid consultants altogether — it’s to use them strategically. A thoughtful approach rooted in collaboration, local knowledge, and shared responsibility will always create a more resilient, defensible, and community-aligned school safety program.