In this episode of The Ascent, host Sam McGee interviews Rick Goodrich, Chief of Safety and Security for Boerne Independent School District. Rick shares his extensive background in law enforcement, military service, and his transition into school safety. The conversation covers the importance of preparedness, community involvement, and evolving security tactics in schools, churches, and public spaces. Rick also discusses his nonprofit, Paton Shield, which focuses on training and supporting safety initiatives in private schools and religious facilities. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in school safety, community resilience, and the real-world challenges of protecting our children and communities.

Timeline

00:00 – Introduction: Host Sam McGee introduces Rick Goodrich and his impressive background.

00:45 – Rick’s Career Overview: Law enforcement, DEA, Air Force, and transition to Boerne ISD.

03:00 – Moving to Texas: Why Rick and his family chose Boerne, and his role in the community.

06:00 – Responding to Tragedy: Involvement in the Robb Elementary incident and the importance of school-based law enforcement.

09:00 – Building Community Partnerships: How Boerne ISD collaborates with city officials and emergency services.

11:00 – School Safety Initiatives: Speaking at the Texas School Safety Conference and sharing best practices.

13:00 – Preparedness in Action: Active shooter training, multi-agency drills, and the importance of muscle memory.

16:00 – Standardized Training: The role of ALERT and mandated training for law enforcement in Texas.

18:00 – Community Support: Fundraising for safety equipment and the importance of local involvement.

20:00 – Evolving Tactics: The need for continuous improvement and training, including for churches and businesses.

22:00 – Key Ingredients for Safety: Preparedness, funding, and community engagement.

23:30 – Rick’s Nonprofit: Introduction to Paton Shield and its mission to support safety in private schools and religious facilities.

25:00 – How to Get Involved: Contact information and a call to action for community members.

27:00 – Closing Thoughts: The evolving landscape of security and a message of gratitude to Rick for his service.