Building Resilient Schools: Design Practices that Enhance Safety, Security, and Longevity

Building Resilient Schools: Design Practices that Enhance Safety, Security, and Longevity

to take this course
Friday, November 7, 2025 Season 1, Episode 7

This course explores the critical role of door hardware and security solutions in creating safer and more resilient educational environments. Through real-world insights and design strategies, participants will examine how codes, standards, and best practices influence decisions that impact occupant safety, emergency response, long-term durability, and liability. The discussion also highlights sustainability, affordability, and the evolving landscape of school safety innovation. By the end, attendees will have a deeper understanding of how design professionals can contribute to effective, compliant, and enduring solutions that protect students, educators, and communities.

Learning Objectives: 
  1. Identify the most pressing challenges facing schools today regarding classroom and interior door safety and explain how door hardware impacts emergency response and overall building security.
  2. Evaluate the importance of compliance with codes, certifications, and standards, including ANSI/BHMA, UL fire ratings, and PASS guidelines, when specifying or selecting security solutions.
  3. Assess strategies for balancing safety, long-term durability, sustainability, and affordability when designing or retrofitting security hardware in K–12 facilities.
  4. Apply best practices and lessons learned from real-world incidents to develop design solutions that improve occupant safety, minimize liability, and align with both current and emerging standards.
Professions: 
Architecture
Design Category: 
(08) Doors, Windows and Openings
Podcast Host: 

Megan Vipond

Megan Vipond

With a Master’s degree in Architecture, Megan has a unique blend of technical expertise and practical experience. She has a foundation in architectural design and an understanding of both design and construction processes, honed through years of hands-on project coordination and fostering on-site relationships. Currently, as a Specification Consultant, she works closely with architects to introduce innovative new products and navigate the latest advancements in the industry.

Podcast Guest(s): 

Brandon Faber

Brandon Faber

Brandon Faber leads the nationwide school security division at TownSteel, where he focuses on advancing innovative door hardware solutions that promote safer, more secure learning environments. In this role, he works directly with school districts, safety specialists, and industry partners to address real-world challenges with practical, code-compliant security solutions.

Jennifer Farrell

Jennifer Farrell

Jennifer has joined our School Safety team at TownSteel. In her role, she educates school administration on security options to further assist in classroom safety. Jennifer’s background will assist in collaborating and building relationships with these key partners. Her expertise in active shooter training combined with engaged student instruction will be beneficial in forging relationships with stakeholders.
Jennifer's Background

Todd Neely

Todd Neely

Todd was a Deputy Sherrif while attending college and had the opportunity to participate in several specialized training programs. He transitioned to the private sector and has spent the past thirty years in the Door, Frame, Hardware, and Security industry. He has worked on a multitude of projects globally to include stadiums, airports, hospitals, military installations, and schools. He has held executive level positions in both distribution and manufacturing organizations.

Applicable Credits