The Crete-Monee School District 201-U held its third annual Safety Symposium on December 3, 2025, at Crete-Monee High School.
The full-day event brought together school leaders, safety personnel, first responders, and community members to collaborate and learn best practices to keep schools and the community safe.
Attendees participated in hands-on training and informative workshops led by school safety professionals and partner organizations. Sessions focused on enhancing emergency preparedness, implementing best practices, and ensuring student and staff wellbeing across the district. The symposium also offered Continuing Education Unit (CEU) credit hours, making it a valuable professional development opportunity for attendees.
“When we come together to share knowledge and strengthen our connections, our schools become a safer place for students to learn and staff to thrive,” said Superintendent Dr. Kara Coglianese. “Events like this help us stay prepared and proactive.”
The symposium offered 10 workshop sessions, including:
- Superintendent Round Table
Dr. Kara Coglianese, Superintendent, Crete-Monee SD 201-U
- Cybersecurity: Protecting Data, Devices, & Districts
Krystle Schmitt, Principal, Technology Director, Crete-Monee SD 201-U
Crystal Moon, Technology Engagement Manager, Net56
- Incident Response Essentials: Incident Command (ICS), Reunification Toolkits, & Best Practices
Robin Tobias, Director of Safety & Security, Crete-Monee SD 201-U
- Start to Secure Exit: On-boarding & Off-boarding to Stop Human Risk
Dr. Lisa Luna, Director of Personnel & Culture, Crete-Monee SD 201-U
- Paws-itive Impact: Exploring the Benefits of Therapy Dogs in Schools
Brian Johnson, Finance Director & Healing Paws Coordinator, Crete-Monee SD 201-U
- Digital Hall Pass for Schools: Streamlining School Safety & Student Movement
Lamont Holifield, Principal, Crete-Monee High School
- Cyberbullying: The Real Impact & Hidden Harm
Carmen Thompson, Supervisor of PBIS, Crete-Monee SD 201-U
- Communications: Communication and Engagement for Tomorrow's Crisis
Dr. Lori Mueller, Partner, Donovan Group
- Regional Office of Education Resources: Programs, Services, & Support
Theresa Ward, School Safety Director, Will County Regional Office of Education
- Building a Wellness Fair: How to Promote Staff Well-being Through Connection & Care
Dana Holman, Benefits Coordinator, Crete-Monee SD 201-U
Jessica Ellis, Benefits & Wellness Specialist, Crete-Monee SD 201-U
Participants appreciated the practical knowledge shared, with many stating that the event surpassed their expectations and that the sessions offered a wealth of information. Returning attendees from last year’s safety symposium stated that they are in the process of implementing strategies they learned.
The event reinforced CM201-U’s commitment to school safety while strengthening connections with neighboring school districts and law enforcement agencies. Notable community attendees included Crete Deputy Chief of Police Adam Groszek and Crete-Monee High School Resource Officer Joseph Rodd.
“Each year we build on new insights and emerging trends,” said. Dr. Coglianese. “Our commitment is to remain leaders in school safety and ensure our practices evolve alongside the communities we serve. We extend our appreciation to all presenters, attendees, and partners who helped make the 2025 Safety Symposium a success.”