Product Information
Copyright: 2024
Format: PDF
Pages: 17
Publisher: WestEd
This guide provides a strategic blueprint for state school safety centers (SSSCs), offering insights to enhance their focus, their structure, and the support services they provide. The framework, developed by WestEd’s Justice and Prevention Research Center with support from the National Institute of Justice, identifies a series of best practices based on an inclusive evaluation process. This process involved an analysis of common SSSC structures; user feedback; and a study of centers notable for their strong awareness, utilization, and positive reputation. The framework outlines four critical areas of practice: “Vision and Mission,” “Structure and Staffing,” “Supports and Services,” and “Audience and Outreach.” It stresses the vital role of SSSCs as central resources for school safety, aligning with state objectives and meeting the needs of diverse interest holders. It also highlights the need for diversifying SSSC funding sources and assembling multidisciplinary teams with a wide range of expertise. Additionally, the framework advises providing an array of supports and services, with a solid understanding of school safety legislation. Finally, it suggests that SSSCs actively engage their audiences using accessible technology platforms, including intuitive websites and effective social media strategies.