Safety & Security Summit 2026
Safety is a shared responsibility, and every member of our school community has a role to play in creating a secure environment. Cal-ISBOA's Safety & Security Summit 2026 will present topics designed for those overseeing operations and facilities, while offering valuable insights for all members of our school communities.
Wednesday, February 11, 2026
9:00am - 3:00pm
via Zoom
Join us for these informative topics!
Using Your Tech Powers for Good: Proactive Tech Tips for Campus Safety
Presented by: Jamie Lewsadder, CTO at La Canada Unified
Session Description: Proactive school safety requires both great tools and caring humans. In this session, we'll explore some approaches to school safety from a technical lens as well as a safety mindset. Learn about some of the latest research from the Secret Service and how to apply these strategies for your campus and community, how to set up your school to think from an intervention mindset to get support where it is needed, and some tech tips you can implement immediately in support of campus safety.
Security Cameras: Planning Systems, Vendors & Installation
Presented by: Eleazar Madrid, Director of Facilities & Operations at Redwood Day School and Jared Mata, Director of Operations & Safety at Saint Andrew's Episcopal School
Session Description: Schools of all sizes face similar questions when planning security camera systems. This panel offers a school-led, vendor-neutral look at how to plan systems, evaluate tradeoffs, and prepare for installation. Ideal for schools considering upgrades; Walk away with practical tools to plan camera systems that fit your campus, budget, and operational reality.
Adventures in Transportation: Navigating the Maze of Traffic Safety Planning
Presented by: Pamela Connor, Director of Facilities & Operations at The Archer School for Girls and Gayle Taylor, Director of Facilities at Crossroads School for Arts & Sciences
Session Description: School parking lots are high-risk zones where students, faculty, and vehicles frequently intersect, making meticulous planning essential for campus safety. This session explores real-world case studies from diverse schools to share best practices for signage, rideshare management, and neighborhood relations. Participants will choose their own adventure through a hands-on tabletop activity, tackling live traffic scenarios alongside colleagues facing similar challenges. You will leave with a comprehensive checklist to guide your parking lot safety planning for years to come!
Security Guards: Outsourced vs. In-House Best Practices and Key Considerations
Presented by: Jared Mata, Director of Operations & Safety at Saint Andrew's Episcopal School and David Marcus, Director of Facilities at de Toledo High School
Session Description: This session explores the practical differences between using third-party contracted security guards and employing in-house security teams at independent schools in California. Drawing from real campus experience, we’ll examine cost, accountability, training, legal considerations, and day-to-day effectiveness. Attendees will gain insight into how each model impacts campus culture, emergency response, compliance, and long-term safety planning, helping school leaders make informed decisions aligned with their community’s needs.
Sponsored by: 