Wake County Schools explore training partnership with Sanford Safer Schools

The Wake County Schools Board Meeting held on August 19, 2025, focused on several key topics, including discussions on proprietary training programs and potential collaborations with external organizations.

The meeting began with a discussion led by a board member regarding the implications of proprietary branding and associated costs. The member expressed concerns about potential hidden costs related to training and materials. They highlighted the importance of understanding these costs before proceeding with any agreements.

A significant point raised was the interest in a training option provided by a foundation, which could involve bringing trainers to Wake County. The board member noted previous engagements with Sanford Safer Schools, which had previously conducted training in Troy, North Carolina. There was a desire to prioritize Wake County for these training sessions rather than approaching it as a regional initiative.

In response to the concerns about costs, it was clarified that there would be no direct costs associated with using the foundation's product, contingent upon the approval of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) by the board.

Vice Chair Swanson acknowledged the discussion, reflecting on personal experiences in the classroom and the relevance of the training methods being considered.

The meeting concluded with a focus on the next steps regarding the MOU and the potential for future training sessions, emphasizing the board's commitment to enhancing educational resources within Wake County Schools.