In a recent episode of the Secured podcast, host Mike Matranga discussed the pressing issue of K-12 security with Izzy Fried, CEO of Fox2Sierra. The conversation highlighted a crucial shift needed in how schools approach safety, emphasizing the importance of foundational training over reliance on advanced technology.
Matranga expressed his frustration with the current focus on active shooter scenarios in school security discussions. “Active shooter incidents, while extremely traumatic, are statistically rare compared to other violent events occurring daily on school campuses,” he noted. Despite this, many companies prioritize selling solutions for these rare events, often neglecting more common safety concerns.
Fried echoed this sentiment, underscoring the need for comprehensive training. “Training should be foundational,” he said. “It's cheaper, offers more return on investment, and equips people to handle a variety of situations, not just active shooters.”
The conversation touched on the importance of prioritizing resources effectively. Matranga cited an example where a school considered spending $6,500 on a single access control panel. Instead, he suggested investing in professional grant writing, which could secure significantly more funding for broader security measures.
Fried shared insights from his work with Fox2Sierra, which began during the COVID-19 pandemic. Initially focused on community assistance, the company evolved to provide security training for various organizations. “We helped a house of worship secure $150,000 for security improvements by bringing in the right professionals,” Fried explained.
One of Fox2Sierra's innovations is the Assess Board, a ballistic whiteboard used for training and real-world scenarios. “Our approach is about filling gaps and providing comprehensive training,” Fried said.
Matranga emphasized the need for sustainable relationships in the security space. “Continuous training ensures people are prepared for various scenarios, not just the ones making headlines,” he said.
The episode highlighted the importance of human interaction and community-based solutions in school security. While technology can play a role, the foundation must always be people. The conversation between Matranga and Fried serves as a call to action for schools to rethink their security strategies, prioritizing effective training and community involvement to create safer environments for everyone.
