Feb 19 2025 33 mins
Episode Synopsis (for podcast platforms):
In this powerful episode of Classroom Narratives: Healing in Education, Dr. Joey Weisler sits down with Dr. Scott Poland, an internationally recognized expert in school safety, crisis intervention, and youth suicide prevention. Dr. Poland shares firsthand insights from his work with school communities after tragedies like the Parkland school shooting, offering critical strategies for educators, parents, and leaders to foster resilience and prevent future violence. He also discusses warning signs of youth suicide, the role of schools in mental health, and how communities can break the silence around these crucial issues. Tune in for an essential conversation on supporting students, building safer schools, and making a difference before crisis strikes.
DISCLAIMER: Dr. Scott Poland’s views are his own and not directly affiliated with Nova Southeastern University.
Resource Links & Explanations
🔹 Dr. Scott Poland’s Faculty Bio Dr. Poland is a professor at Nova Southeastern University and a leading expert in school safety, crisis response, and suicide prevention.
🔹 Fortify Florida – Anonymous Reporting System A confidential, anonymous reporting system designed to help students, parents, and school staff report potential threats of violence, bullying, or self-harm.
🔹 The School Shooting Epidemic: School Safety & Prevention Strategies – Dr. Scott Poland This book by Dr. Scott Poland provides essential insights into the growing crisis of school violence, outlining evidence-based prevention strategies and real-world lessons from past school shootings.
🔹 Eagle's Haven Wellness Center A free wellness center in Parkland, FL, providing mental health support, trauma recovery programs, and self-care resources for the community after the Marjory Stoneman Douglas shooting.
🔹 Frank DeAngelis The former principal of Columbine High School, DeAngelis is a speaker and advocate for school safety, trauma recovery, and leadership after tragedy.
🔹 March For Our Lives A youth-led movement advocating for gun violence prevention and stronger school safety policies, founded by survivors of the 2018 Parkland shooting.
🔹 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline A 24/7, free, and confidential crisis helpline providing immediate support for those experiencing mental health distress or suicidal thoughts—just dial 988.
🔹 Scott Poland’s Newest Book – School Crisis Intervention A comprehensive guide for educators and mental health professionals on effectively responding to school crises, from suicide prevention to trauma recovery.