Alpine School District held a series of Safety-Care training sessions throughout the summer to help educators prevent crises before they occur. The initiative aims to empower staff to create safe and supportive classrooms by focusing on prevention and de-escalation.
Safety-Care is an evidence-based training grounded in behavioral science and positive-support frameworks, according to Royd Darrington, the Director of Special Education for ASD. The training addresses acute student behavioral crises, which include situations involving physical aggression, property destruction, or severe emotional dysregulation that may threaten the safety of students or others.
Participants engage in hands-on practice, including role-playing scenarios to refine vocal tone, de-escalation cues, and safe physical positioning. Trainees practice identifying early warning signs, such as pacing or fidgeting, to implement supportive verbal prompts before a situation escalates. Darrington stated that the program provides proven strategies to help faculty and staff support students in crisis and noted a heavy focus on proactive support.
To maintain consistent support, specific district employees complete a 12-hour initial training to become certified Safety-Care specialists. This group includes special education teachers, administrators, bus drivers, BCB
As, and paraprofessionals, all of whom must participate in annual recertification. District leaders selected the national curriculum because it aligns with district policies and Utah State statutes.
Rex Brimhall, the ASD Director of Transportation West, stated that completing the training is part of a responsibility to ensure the well-being of students and staff. Brimhall noted that learning alongside staff allows leaders to provide coaching and support across the district.
Brimhall observed that an adult's demeanor, including body language, tone of voice, and emotional regulation, significantly influences crisis outcomes. He emphasized that the primary goals are prevention and de-escalation, while maintaining student dignity through empathy and patience. Brimhall concluded that the training helps ensure interventions remain student-centered and trauma-informed.
Through continuous staff training and responsible governance, Alpine School District remains dedicated to building professional capacity across all schools.
