Santee School District Names First Director Of Safety And Security

SANTEE, CA — The Santee School District has appointed Michael Castillo as its first director of safety and security, a newly created position aimed at strengthening campus safety and emergency preparedness across the district.

Castillo, who has nearly 20 years of public safety and security experience, most recently served as law enforcement manager and trainer at the University of San Diego, where he oversaw campus security operations and coordinated with local, state and federal law enforcement agencies.

Subscribe

The district created the position following a comprehensive safety assessment conducted earlier this year by Safe and Sound Schools, a national nonprofit focused on school safety. The assessment included campus walkthroughs and workshops with district leaders and community members. One of the group's recommendations was to establish a district-level safety leadership position.

Superintendent Dr. Kristin Baranski said the new role reflects the district's continued investment in protecting students and staff.

"Student and staff safety remains our highest priority," Baranski said in a statement. "The creation of the director of safety and security position represents another important investment in protecting our schools and strengthening the comprehensive safety measures already in place across our district."

As director of safety and security, Castillo will oversee the district's safety initiatives, emergency preparedness, security planning and partnerships with local public safety agencies. He will also work with school administrators, staff, families and community partners to review and strengthen campus safety practices.

"I am honored to join the Santee School District and look forward to working alongside our dedicated leadership team, employees, families, and community partners," Castillo said. "Together, we will continue to build upon the district's strong foundation of safety while enhancing the systems, relationships, and preparedness that help ensure every student and staff member can learn and work in a safe and secure environment."