In an insightful interview, Daniel Dluzneski shared his remarkable transition from a career in the Secret Service to becoming a dedicated school safety manager. With 24 years of experience stationed in Washington, D.C., within the Secret Service’s Uniform Division, Dluzneski participated in specialized operations, including motorcade support and crime scene investigations. After retiring and relocating to Florida, he found his calling in enhancing safety protocols within schools, particularly in light of the increasing number of active shooter incidents.

Dluzneski is at the forefront of implementing crucial school safety initiatives. He emphasizes the importance of clear communication during emergencies by advocating for plain language over confusing codes. This approach aims to improve understanding among staff and students, ensuring that everyone knows how to react effectively in a crisis. By prioritizing lockdown procedures and the necessity of regular drills, he seeks to foster an environment where preparation is paramount.

However, the journey toward improving school safety has not been without its challenges. Dluzneski encountered significant resistance from school administrations when proposing updates to outdated safety protocols. He pointed out that many institutions cling to antiquated methods that fail to adequately convey emergencies. This situation is compounded by the observation that during drills, many teachers and staff members tend to freeze or neglect the procedures, underscoring a critical need for more serious engagement in emergency preparedness.

In addition to improving protocols, Dluzneski champions the importance of educating children on situational awareness. He encourages parents to teach their children how to recognize potential dangers and respond appropriately in emergencies. This includes knowing how to identify exits and understanding the basics of lockdown procedures. By involving parents in this education, he believes that the overall safety culture in schools can be enhanced significantly.

A key component of his approach is the establishment of threat assessment teams within schools. These teams are designed to proactively identify and address potential risks before they escalate into serious incidents. This proactive stance is a vital part of creating safer learning environments for children.

Dluzneski’s impact extends beyond his immediate responsibilities; he has authored a book titled “The First 5 Minutes,” available on Amazon, that aligns with his mission of improving school safety. Through this resource and his active presence on social media platforms like LinkedIn and Facebook, he shares valuable insights geared toward educating communities about effective safety measures.

Recognizing the importance of community engagement, Dluzneski urges parents to take an active role in discussions regarding safety measures within their children’s schools. He believes that advocacy for necessary changes can make a significant difference in the implementation of effective safety protocols.

In conclusion, Daniel Dluzneski’s transition from the Secret Service to school safety management highlights a vital intersection of experience and advocacy. His efforts to improve school safety through clear communication, proactive measures, and community involvement serve as a model for how education systems can better protect their students in an age of heightened awareness of threats. The commitment to safeguard our schools is not just the responsibility of the administration; it requires collaboration and engagement from parents, educators, and safety professionals alike.

Through his invaluable work, Dluzneski continues to contribute to the safety and well-being of children, setting a standard for school safety initiatives nationwide.