Britney Fortner, in her pivotal role at the Austin Police Department, witnessed firsthand the devastating impacts of the Parkland and Santa Fe school shootings. Although these events were tragic, they spurred a relentless pursuit to mitigate such risks in the future. Fortner’s journey from Program Coordinator to the Director of Safety, Security, and Threat Management has been marked by one recurring theme: the power of relationships.
Community as the First Line of Defense
Security measures at schools extend beyond the boundaries of classrooms. Fortner realized that to truly fortify school safety, attention must be paid to the environment outside. “Proactive school safety doesn’t begin on campus — it starts in the community,” she asserts.
By understanding the pulse of the community, security professionals can identify potential threats before they escalate. Fortner’s strategy involves early intervention for individuals with grievances, aiming to redirect them from pathways leading to violence. This community-centric approach emphasizes preventive action and preparation for the unexpected.
Creating Safe and Welcoming Environments
Ensuring a secure campus involves more than just erecting physical barriers. It’s about cultivating an environment where students feel safe to learn and thrive. Fortner believes that schools must remain an inviting space, emphasizing an educational ambiance while discreetly embedding robust security protocols.
“Our top priority in the school district is always going to be educating students,” Fortner explains. By fostering transparency and communication, she helps balance safety with the preservation of a nurturing educational atmosphere. Her work underscores the impact of relational security — demonstrating that genuine community engagement is a cornerstone of effective threat mitigation.
The Journey from Public Relations to a Security Beacon
With a foundation in Public Relations and Higher Education Administration, Fortner’s professional path may seem unconventional for a security expert. Yet, these fields equipped her with essential communication skills crucial for her role today. Fortner emphasizes, “Communication is so important for safety and security.” Transparent dialogue fosters community trust and collaboration, vital elements in supporting security initiatives.
Building Bridges and Breaking Barriers
As Fortner navigates her ‘dream job,’ she continues to highlight the importance of community relationships in achieving security goals. She recounts, “The most important part of this job is the relational piece.” In her view, while technology and tactical readiness are significant, it’s the human connections that ultimately keep schools safe.
Britney Fortner’s insightful approach not only showcases the importance of proactive community involvement but also sets a precedent for future security strategies. Her inspiring journey from a public relations student to a security leader exemplifies the transformative power of relationships in crafting secure educational landscapes.
As stated in Security Magazine, Fortner’s innovative practices inspire a new wave of safety protocols in schools across Texas and beyond.
