Brad Stiles on School Safety and Inclusion
The Colorado Office of School Safety is proud to highlight the work of our very own Brad Stiles, Emergency Response Outreach Consultant. Brad recently sat down with The Arc of Aurora to discuss the critical intersection of school safety and students with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD).
As the primary physical safety expert for our office, Brad works with schools across Colorado to ensure emergency operations plans (EOPs) are not only current but inclusive of all student needs.
Key Takeaways from the Discussion
Inclusive Emergency Planning Brad emphasizes that safety plans must account for students in special education, particularly regarding sensory needs. For example, some schools utilize secondary reunification sites for students with IDD to avoid the sensory overload and trauma of large-crowd evacuations.
Technology and Accommodations Safety is evolving beyond standard audio alarms. Schools are exploring:
Visual alert systems for students with hearing impairments.
Vibrating mats and tactile technology for educators.
Adjusted room layouts to accommodate specialized equipment and additional support staff during lockdowns.
Trauma-Informed Drills The Office of School Safety advocates for drills that teach without traumatizing. This includes:
Tabletop exercises (discussion-based planning) for a calmer learning environment.
Pre-notifying families and staff before high-intensity drills.
Modifying drill procedures to ensure students with sensory sensitivities remain safe and calm.
Advocacy for Parents and Caregivers Parents are encouraged to be the "sticky wheel." Brad recommends asking schools directly: "Does your plan address my child's specific needs?" While tactical details remain confidential, parents should have a clear understanding of the specific protocols in place for their child.
Resources for Colorado Schools
The Colorado Office of School Safety provides several services at no cost to districts:
Resource Center: Trainers and consultants for physical and psychological safety.
Grants Unit: Management of school safety funding opportunities.
Crisis Response Unit: A team of mental health professionals available to support schools following critical incidents.
Watch the full interview hosted by The Arc of Aurora on YouTube: School Safety and IDD with Brad Stiles
For more information and access to guidance documents, visit our website at oss.colorado.gov.
Featured Organizations
The Arc of Aurora (@The Arc of Aurora)
THINK+change (@THINK+change)