Violence doesn’t begin at the moment of crisis—it develops along a pathway shaped by unmet needs, disconnection, and missed opportunities for support. This session will examine how Bright Futures serves as a proactive, upstream strategy to disrupt that pathway by intentionally building protective factors and strengthening student connections.

Grounded in Missy Dodd’s powerful story, What About the Child, the conversation will challenge attendees to look beyond behavior and consider what students truly need to stay on a safer path. Panelists will share practical strategies for intervening earlier, aligning supports, and creating environments where prevention is not a program—but the foundation of school safety.