School Safety Shifts Focus to Warning Signs, Student Well-Being

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According to Superintendent Scott Stier, cultivating a sense of belonging among students is emerging as an important school safety measure. Stier recently attended the 2026 Wisconsin School Safety Coordinators Association Safety and Security Conference, where the focus was on identifying warning signs and prioritizing students' emotional well-being.

Why it matters

This shift in school safety strategy reflects a growing recognition that addressing students' social-emotional needs and creating an inclusive environment can help prevent incidents and improve overall school safety. By focusing on early intervention and fostering a supportive community, schools aim to identify and address potential issues before they escalate.

The details

Stier told the Board of Education that the conference highlighted the importance of creating a sense of belonging for students as a key school safety measure. The new approach emphasizes identifying warning signs and prioritizing students' emotional well-being, rather than just focusing on physical security measures.

• Stier attended the 2026 Wisconsin School Safety Coordinators Association Safety and Security Conference on March 5-6, 2026.
• Stier reported the conference findings to the Board of Education at its Committee of the Whole meeting on March 9, 2026.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The Board of Education is expected to discuss Stier's recommendations and consider implementing new strategies to foster a greater sense of belonging and address students' emotional well-being as part of their overall school safety plan.