Active Shooter Response Training

We know that faculty and staff preparedness for an active shooter situation is critical—and we know that high-quality training isn't always within reach. TAIS and Defend Systems are proud to partner again to offer an accessible, 3.5-hour Active Shooter Response Training to equip school teams for a new academic year.

Defend Systems is a nationally respected provider of safety and security training and has become a trusted partner of several TAIS Member Schools. Their training reflects how incidents actually unfold on school campuses. Defend's approach emphasizes decision-making, communication, and coordinated response.

This is training designed to support educators so they can respond with confidence and care when it matters most.

Training Overview

• Part One: In-depth analysis of historical mass shooting events and lessons learned
• Part Two: Step-by-step decision-making strategies for active intruder scenarios
• Part Three: Hands-on practice of best response techniques for engaging with an intruder
• Part Four: Pre-hospital trauma medical training to address life-threatening injuries

Faculty and staff are entrusted with student safety while navigating complex buildings, varied age groups, and rapidly changing situations. Generic active shooter guidance often fails to reflect these realities, leaving educators underprepared for moments that demand clarity, coordination, and decisive action.

Defend Systems delivers active shooter response training designed specifically for schools and campuses. Their DEFEND® curriculum is built from years of research into real active shooter events and focuses on practical decision-making, communication, and coordinated response tailored to educational environments.

This is not a one-size-fits-all program. Defend Systems has trained more than 320 schools and districts nationwide, equipping educators with realistic, empowering training that builds confidence without creating fear.

TAIS schools that have trusted Defend Systems include Battle Ground Academy, Brainerd Baptist School, Christ Methodist Day School, Currey Ingram, Ensworth, Father Ryan, Franklin Road Academy, St. Mary’s Episcopal School, University School of Jackson, and more.

Learn more about Defend Systems:

• School & Campus Training
• Educator Testimonials

Reflections from Our July '25 Attendees

"Today's event was simply amazing. I knew it would be, as I attended the training last year through a different provider. I believe this should be a yearly required training for all schools.  If possible, having a heads up about it so that staff development could be planned around it would be amazing."

"While it was a very difficult material to go over, our instructor was both informative and passionate about her message. She held my attention completely. I would highly recommend the class and our approachable instructor."

"This was an informative and very needed presentation. Our instructor clearly taught the whys and hows on defending ourselves and our students."

"If this training, Active Shooter w/ Defend Systems, was taught again, I would recommend that our teachers be required to attend."