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Every year, people across the world set goals to make the new year better than the last from getting healthier to learning a new skill. But what about school safety? As 2026 begins, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the last year and how you can create a safer environment for your students, staff, and community.
When reflecting on the past year or semester, consider the following questions:
- What steps have you already taken to improve safety?
- Are existing protocols being followed consistently?
- Do staff and students feel safe and informed?
- What areas still feel vulnerable (physical spaces, digital security, emergency preparedness)?
- Is there a need for refresher courses or new drills?
- Are emergency alerts and safety instructions clear and accessible?
- Are there resources for students and staff to feel emotionally safe?
- Are there new technologies or strategies worth adopting?
- What short-term and long-term goals can you set for safety enhancement?
Whether you are wanting to improve safety in your classroom, your school, or your overall school district, there are steps you can take now to begin working toward your goals.
Classroom Level Goals
Goal 1: Secure Your Classroom Environment
Steps:
- Keep classroom doors locked during instruction.
- Position furniture to avoid blocking exits.
- Post emergency procedures near the door.
Goal 2: Build Student Awareness
Steps:
- Review safety protocols with students monthly and discuss their importance.
- Practice age-appropriate drills (fire, lockdown).
- Encourage students to report concerns anonymously.
Goal 3: Support Mental Health
Steps:
- Create a calm corner for students feeling overwhelmed.
- Learn warning signs of stress or crisis.
- Share mental health resources with families.
Try This!
Use these discussion prompts with students
Before or After a Safety Drill:
- Why do you think schools have safety drills?
- How do you feel during drills, and what can make them easier for everyone?
- What can you do to help make drills go smoothly?
- Why is it important to take drills seriously, even if they feel routine?
During Safety Protocol Explanations:
- How do safety protocols help keep everyone safe?
- Why is it important to stay calm and follow directions during an emergency?
- What role does each person play in keeping the class safe during an emergency?
- How does following these rules protect not just you, but your friends and teachers?
School-Level Goals
Goal 1: Strengthen Building Security
Steps:
- Ensure all exterior doors are locked and monitored.
- Install or upgrade security cameras in high-traffic areas.
- Implement a visitor management system with ID checks.
Goal 2: Improve Emergency Preparedness
Steps:
- Update emergency plans and assign staff roles.
- Schedule drills for fire, lockdown, and severe weather.
- Conduct quarterly safety audits.
Goal 3: Enhance Communication
Steps:
- Adopt a mass notification system for staff and parents.
- Create quick-reference emergency guides for classrooms.
- Test communication channels monthly.
Try This!
When creating a quick-reference emergency guide for classrooms, consider including the following information:
- Emergency and key internal contact numbers
- Condensed versions of emergency procedures
- Communication Protocol – who to contact
- Location of emergency kits
District-Level Goals
Goal 1: Standardize Safety Policies Across Schools
Steps:
- Develop district-wide safety protocols and training.
- Ensure consistency in visitor management and emergency plans.
- Provide funding for security upgrades.
Goal 2: Invest in Mental Health and Crisis Response
Steps:
- Hire or contract mental health professionals for schools.
- Offer district-wide staff training on crisis intervention.
- Create a centralized reporting system for threats or concerns.
Goal 3: Leverage Technology for Safety
Steps:
- Implement district-wide emergency alert systems.
- Use analytics to monitor safety trends and incidents.
- Ensure cybersecurity measures protect student data.
Try This!
Create a safety walkthrough checklist. Consider including the following questions:
- Are all exterior and classroom doors locked during school hours?
- Are visitor badges visible and properly logged?
- Are emergency maps posted in every classroom?
- Are drill logs up to date?
While considering new goals or continuing to work on previous goals, focus on committing to 2-3 actions to start and build momentum over time. At the end of the school year, reflect on how well those actions are building toward your goal. By the end of 2026, you can build a safer place for students and staff!
As you set new goals or continue working on existing ones, start by committing to just 2–3 actionable steps. Small, consistent progress creates momentum that lasts. At the end of the school year, take time to reflect on how these actions have moved you closer to your safety goals. By committing to your goals with actionable steps, you can create a safer environment for students and staff in 2026!