Methodology
The Northern Star Methodology addresses school and community safety by
uniting local stakeholders, educators, and first responders to collaboratively
tackle the root causes of violence.
Why Choose Northern Star?
Northern Star provides a collaborative, NO COST service designed to empower
communities to protect their schools and neighborhoods.
By prioritizing evidence-based strategies and local engagement, we foster trust,
resilience, and a culture of safety.
Together, we will address the root causes of violence and build stronger, safer
communities.
Philosophy
Rejecting the notion of “school violence” as an isolated issue, we focus on
community violence that infiltrates schools.
This evidence-based, problem-solving approach focuses on creating or refining
Emergency Operations Plans (EOPs) and School Safety Plans that align with
local needs.
Our framework
Emphasizes three critical areas:
1. Physical security
2. Policy development, and
3. Social-emotional learning.
By integrating proactive prevention, risk mitigation, and responsive strategies, the Northern Star approach empowers communities to create safer, more resilient environments.
Physical
Security
We evaluate and enhance security infrastructure, emphasizing measures such as:
- Advanced security technologies and communication systems.
- Safe transportation routes and neighborhood risk assessments.
- Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED), focusing on:
- Access control
- Lighting
- Calming environments
Policy
Development
We collaborate with stakeholders to refine policies that affect safety and wellness, such as:
- Anti-bullying and harassment protocols.
- Emergency response guidelines.
- Visitor management and access control policies.
Social-Emotional Development
We provide training and resources to address precursors to violence, including:
- Suicide prevention, trauma awareness, and mental health support.
- Human trafficking and cyber safety education.
- Conflict resolution and trust-building training.
Our methodology
Northern Star’s Five-Step Methodology:
1. Data
Collection
Northern Star facilitators compile detailed demographic, crime, and socio- economic data to build a comprehensive community profile. This includes GIS mapping, surveys, and comparative analyses.
2. Team
Formation
Inclusive Core Safety Teams (CSTs) and Advisory Resource Teams (ARTs) are formed, involving school representatives, community members, law enforcement, and mental health professionals.
3. Problem-Based Learning
Teams identify local safety challenges, conduct research, and develop evidence- based recommendations. Studies focus on issues such as gun violence, teacher retention, and mental health.
4. Plan
Development
The CST develops tailored safety plans encompassing physical security
upgrades, policy refinement, and social-emotional learning strategies. Key
components include:
- Transportation and building safety improvements.
- Emergency drills and crisis management training.
- Comprehensive mental health initiatives.
5. Implementation and Monitoring
Plans are rolled out with stakeholder training, regular safety drills, and ongoing evaluations. Partnerships with local authorities ensure coordinated responses to emergencies, while annual reviews keep plans up to date.
