School safety experts delve into the latest challenges facing K-12 institutions, including cyber threats and physical vulnerabilities. This session will equip you with the tools to identify potential risks, implement effective threat assessment strategies, and ensure the safety of your school community. Learn how to spot emerging threats early, ensuring that vulnerabilities are addressed before they become critical issues.
Speakers:
James Miller
Assistant DirectorArlington Public Schools (APS),
School Safety & Emergency Management division
James Miller is a Certified Protection Professional and an Assistant Director with Arlington Public Schools (APS), School Safety & Emergency Management division. He holds a masters in Homeland Security from George Washington University. Prior to APS, he was a Senior Security Manager for Amazon Corporate Security and helped grow security programs for HQ2, $2.5 billion infrastructure investment in Arlington. Between 2011 and 2020, Jim was a Special Agent with the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Diplomatic Security. He was trusted and trained to provide a secure environment for the conduct of U.S. diplomacy while protecting people, global property, and information at over a dozen U.S. diplomatic missions around the world. As a community volunteer, Jim was appointed to the Community Oversight Board in March 2022. He currently serves as one of two, non-voting members for a four-year term. Prior to joining the Foreign Service, Jim spent eight years as an infantryman in the United States Marine Corps, including three combat tours in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. When not busy keeping our schools safe, Jim spends time with family and training for triathlons. You can find him running on Four Mile Run trail or swimming at Wakefield.
Dr. Judith Solis
Deputy Director
Region One Education Service Center
Dr. Judith M. Solis is a passionate educator with over 40 years of experience in leadership roles that prioritize educational excellence, fiscal responsibility, and organizational health. Currently serving as the Deputy Director of Region One Education Service Center, Dr. Solis leads critical regional initiatives, including the implementation of AI gun detection technology and the "Driving for Success" program. She is a regional trainer for Behavioral Threat Assessments and oversees Adult Education and Early Childhood Intervention programs, ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations.Dr. Solis’s career also includes leadership roles as Assistant Superintendent at San Antonio ISD, Superintendent at La Villa ISD, and Principal at PSJA Memorial ECHS, where she consistently drove improvements in student performance, college readiness, and district operations. Her innovative leadership has earned multiple accolades, and she continues to influence educational practices with a focus on collaboration and strategic growth.
Aaron Skrbin
Director of Safety and Security
Allegheny Intermediate Unit
As the Director of Safety and Security for Allegheny Intermediate Unit, Aaron Skirbin leads the development and implementation of safety initiatives designed to ensure the well-being of students, staff, and facilities. With a strong background in emergency preparedness, Aaron works closely with school leaders to establish crisis management protocols, integrate security technologies, and foster a culture of safety throughout the district. His expertise helps create secure learning environments while staying ahead of emerging safety challenges.