Creating a safe school culture starts with our community fostering trust, open communication, and active involvement for lasting security. When communities support school safety together, they establish an environment where students thrive, feel secure, and grow into confident individuals. Today’s schools face many challenges in maintaining student safety—from physical threats to mental health concerns—and they rely on the strength of their communities to build a truly effective security culture. This collaborative approach transforms school safety from a single goal into a shared mission. Here, we’ll look at how community involvement lays the foundation for safe, supportive school environments and drives sustainable security practices.


The Power of Community in School Safety

School safety is a goal that becomes far stronger when achieved together. Involving parents, teachers, local leaders, and residents in school safety measures creates a network of support that reinforces the physical and emotional well-being of students. A safe school culture isn’t just about preventing incidents—it’s about establishing a caring environment where every student feels valued and protected.

Some of the key benefits of community involvement in school safety include:

Schools with engaged communities report fewer incidents and more positive school culture, where students learn and grow without fear. The active presence of a caring community around the school makes it a safer, more inclusive space.


Building Trust and Clear Communication Channels

Trust and open communication are essential in creating a safe school environment. Schools need reliable communication systems that foster transparency so students, parents, and staff feel secure. When the community stays well-informed, misunderstandings decrease, and shared support for safety initiatives grows.

Here are some effective ways schools can foster trust and clear communication:

With clear communication channels, trust grows, and safety initiatives succeed. Transparent communication reassures parents, encourages students to share concerns, and provides peace of mind to the entire school community.


Cultivating Respect and Accountability

Respect and accountability are fundamental to a safe school culture. When students and staff hold themselves and each other accountable, schools become safer and more welcoming. A culture of respect reduces bullying and other harmful behaviors, making school a place where everyone feels secure.

To foster respect and accountability, schools and communities can:

Accountability goes beyond rules; it creates an environment where students feel empowered to make good choices. Respect and accountability shape the kind of environment where students and staff contribute to a peaceful, harmonious school culture.


Empowering Students as Safety Leaders

Students can be powerful advocates for a safe school culture. When they learn to identify and respond to safety concerns, they develop responsibility and confidence in keeping their school secure. Training students as “safety leaders” or “safety ambassadors” promotes a proactive culture where students protect one another.

To empower students as safety leaders, schools can:

Student involvement in safety initiatives teaches valuable leadership and problem-solving skills. This involvement shapes future community leaders who value and prioritize safety.


Partnering with Local Law Enforcement

Local law enforcement is a crucial ally in maintaining a safe school environment. Schools that collaborate with police departments and emergency services benefit from additional resources, expertise, and support that enhance school safety.

Effective ways to build a strong partnership with law enforcement include:

Strong partnerships with local authorities create a protective layer and a reliable support network for schools, ensuring swift assistance in critical moments.


Engaging Parents in Safety Efforts

Parents play an essential role in fostering a safe school culture. When they actively participate in school safety initiatives, they bridge the gap between school policies and home expectations, reinforcing a commitment to student well-being.

Parents can support school safety efforts by:

Involving parents ensures a seamless connection between home and school, fostering a shared responsibility for student safety.


Mental Health as a Pillar of School Safety

Mental health is an essential component of a safe school culture. Addressing students’ emotional needs reduces the risk of behavioral issues that could threaten security. Schools that prioritize mental health create an environment where everyone feels valued and understood.

Schools and communities can support mental health by:

A focus on mental health provides schools with a proactive approach to safety. This support reduces conflicts, bullying, and other incidents.


Leveraging Safety Technology

In addition to community involvement, safety technology strengthens a school’s security framework. Technology can’t replace the human element, but it complements community-driven efforts with extra layers of protection.

Key safety technologies that support school security include:

Schools that balance technology with community involvement create a comprehensive approach to safety. This approach guards against both internal and external threats.


A Shared Mission for Safer Schools

Creating a safe school culture truly starts with our community. When parents, students, teachers, and local agencies work together, they create a school environment where students feel protected and empowered. Defender Secure is committed to supporting schools and communities in building a culture of safety, trust, and mutual respect. We recognize that a secure school is only possible through shared dedication and ongoing collaboration.

Chad Emrick

Scheduling Adminstrator

As Scheduling Administrator, Chad leverages twenty years of administrative and management experience to enhance Defender One’s operational excellence. For Chad, the scheduling process is like putting together a puzzle—finding just the right pieces to fill every slot. His strategic mindset and knack for process optimization have consistently elevated his organizational efficiency. The security industry is 24/7. Thus, Chad’s methodical preparation and adaptable management style keeps our operations running smoothly.

When not orchestrating schedules at Defender One, Chad dedicates himself to his treasured role— a devoted family man. He and his wife Wanda have raised four remarkable children. Most recently, adding a new dimension to his life’s joy is his grandson, Leo.

Phil Kline

Regional Manager – Baltimore Metro Region

Phil’s career began in the U.S. Air Force, where he served as a Military Police Officer. His training as an Internal Response Unit member equipped him with essential skills in safety, security, and crisis management. One of his most fulfilling experiences was responding to Hurricane Sandy, where he played a vital role in assisting those affected by the disaster.

Following his military service, Phil transitioned to the building supply industry, where he spent a decade as an Operations and Sales Manager. During this time, he honed his leadership, process improvement, and industry analysis skills. His passion for identifying opportunities and driving positive change has been a constant throughout his career.

With a strong foundation in problem-solving and a resilient mindset, Phil is dedicated to applying his expertise to create impactful solutions. Whether leading teams, optimizing processes, or tackling complex challenges, he approaches every task with integrity and a focus on results.

Outside of work, Phil is an avid motorcyclist and enjoys spending time outdoors, hiking, and camping. One of his most memorable adventures was conquering the challenging hike to the top of Angels Landing in Zion National Park, Utah.

Walter Leslie Jr.

Operations Manager

Walter is an observant and vigilant, safety-driven security professional with 14+ years of leadership experience across commercial, residential, and corporate security sectors. Walter offers extensive expertise in developing and executing comprehensive physical security procedures and protocols. Specializing in risk assessments, he has successfully implemented mitigation strategies for clients, reducing potential security threats.

Outside of work, he is family-oriented and enjoys traveling with his wife Jackie, and their dog Aries. He is an avid sports enthusiast and loves the Washington Commanders and Washington Nationals.

Cynthia Cox

Human Resources Manager

With 21 years of management experience across various industries, including staffing, transportation, small business ownership, accounting, and operations, Cynthia brings a wealth of knowledge and a robust skill set to Defender One. Her diversified background has equipped her with a keen understanding of multiple business domains, making her an invaluable asset to the team.

Matthew Goodman

Assistant Director of Operations
Matt currently serves as Defender One’s Assistant Director of Operations. Matt is responsible for the day-to-day operations of Defender One and works closely with the Director of Operations & Training to implement goals and objectives for the company. As a nationally certified School Resource Officer and Force Science Analyst, Matt brings an interpersonal and holistic approach to the industry. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from York College. Outside of work, Matt is an avid outdoorsmen, spending time perfecting his landscaping skills. Matt also enjoys quality time with his wife Ashley, and two cats, Ollie and Leo, as well as watching the Baltimore Orioles and Ravens.

Jennifer Krieger

Director of Human Resources
Jen currently serves as Defender One’s Director of Human Resources, managing our HR and back end finance teams. Jen has 30 years of experience in healthcare benefits administration, retirement benefits, financial planning and human resources. Jen holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from the University of Maryland, College Park and a Master’s Degree in Finance from Loyola University. Jen prioritizes an employee focused and driven company, with an emphasis on client and employee satisfaction. Outside of work, Jen enjoys running, watching her daughter play Division 1 Lacrosse, and playing with her grand-dogs.

Jared Krieger

Director of Operations & Training

Jared serves as the Director of Operations & Training at Defender One, where he oversees the company’s operations and staff training programs. He holds a Master of Science in Homeland Security & Disaster Management and a Bachelor of Science in Homeland Security & Counterterrorism. He is a Certified Security Project Manager and is board-certified in security management. He is also board-certified as a Physical Security Professional by the American Society of Industrial Security. As an accredited law enforcement instructor, Jared specializes in multiple disciplines, including Firearms, OC Spray, Expandable Baton, Handcuff Techniques, Taser, Defensive Tactics, and Force Science Analytics.

Outside of work, Jared enjoys traveling and spending time with his girlfriend and their three dogs.

Jon Krieger

Owner
Jon is the President and Founder of Defender One. Jon started Defender One in 2009, with the goal of bridging the gap between conventional security guards and law enforcement. Jon had a long and distinguished career in a large metropolitan police department for over 30 years, holding supervisory positions in several units, including patrol, internal affairs, traffic and community outreach. Jon has a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Maryland, College Park. Outside of work, Jon spends his time spoiling his grand-dogs Fred and Barney, supporting the Ravens and Orioles, and watching his daughter play Division 1 Lacrosse.