About

 

 

Creating Safer Learning Environments Nationwide

Superintendent
Teacher
 

Learn About Safe Schools USA’s Commitment

Smiling teacher and child during a classroom session in Yalova, Türkiye.

Safe Schools USA specializes in K-12 safety training and resources, ensuring compliance and protection for students and staff.

Since our inception in 2016 under American Tactical Defense, LLC, Safe Schools USA has empowered schools across the United States to enhance safety protocols and meet mandated training requirements, enabling educators to focus on effective teaching and student well-being.

 
We are the team behind the nation’s only proven life-saving school safety programs. Safe Schools USA delivers full 50-state compliant training (e.g. California’s new SB 848) with automated reminders, progress tracking, and easy reporting while removing the burden from busy administrators. Trusted by schools nationwide, we match or beat your current provider’s price because every school deserves the best protection.
 

Discover Our Purpose and Values

Schools nationwide have benefited from our tailored safety training, resulting in improved compliance and heightened awareness surrounding child protection and professional boundaries.

 

Our Journey: Commitment to School Safety

Founded with a vision to enhance school safety for our own children, Safe Schools USA has grown into a trusted partner for K-12 schools by providing essential training and resources created by first responder teachers.

Adult woman using smartphone and laptop indoors, focused on device.

A Decade of Dedication to Safer Schools

Over the past decade, Safe Schools USA has developed innovative training programs tailored for K-12 institutions, serving public, charter, and private schools nationwide while consistently elevating compliance standards and safety awareness.

Meet Our Executive Team

Get to know our team and discover how their expertise can benefit you.
SVP of Sales

Dexter Carter

SVP of Sales | Retired law enforcement

School Safety Advisor

Jon Gerringer

SVP of School Advisory Programs | 18 Years in law enforcement, SRO, Critical Infrastructure Protection, Active Shooter Instructor

SVP of School Safety Strategy & Preparedness

Alex Garcia

SVP of School Safety Strategy & Preparedness | 22 Years in law enforcement, Special Response Team, Active Shooter, Firearms & Use of Force Instructor

SVP of Violence Prevention & Self-Advocacy

Earle Wright

SVP of Violence Prevention & Self-Advocacy | 17 Years in law enforcement, Active Shooter Instructor, Mixed Martial Arts, Krav-Maga blackbelt/Instructor, Firearms & Use of Force Instructor

Meet Our Leadership Team

We’re proud to introduce our leadership team — dedicated professionals who truly understand the challenges facing today’s schools. With deep expertise in school safety, emergency response, and strategic leadership, they bring practical experience, genuine care, and a strong commitment to supporting administrators like you. Get to know the people who are here to partner with you in creating safer, more confident learning environments.
CEO

Karla Rivera
CEO

Karla is a seasoned technology strategy and consulting leader with over 25 years of experience guiding Fortune 500 companies through complex digital transformations and innovation initiatives. 
A former Division 1 athlete, she brings the same discipline, resilience, and competitive drive to every engagement. Known as a natural connector, Karla excels at building high-impact relationships across industries, bridging technology, business, and people to create lasting value. Passionate about mentoring emerging leaders and fostering collaboration, she continues to shape the future of technology strategy with insight, integrity, and energy.
COO

Bryan McKenrick COO

Bryan brings 28 years of distinguished law enforcement experience and is a nationally recognized instructor who has trained thousands of first responders in active shooter response. He has developed critical programs and policies for the U.S. government and is the creator of the only current lifesaving response program of its kind — one that enabled a trained teacher to save 34 lives during an active threat. Passionate about protecting and empowering people, Bryan is driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence in everything he does. He continues to equip communities and professionals with practical, high-impact strategies to enhance safety and preparedness.
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