In the next episode of Paul Timm’s podcast – The Changing Face of School Security, he talks with Dr. Michael Lubelfeld, superintendent of North Shore School District 112 in Illinois.

S1 Ep. 23 Leadership in Crisis: Lessons from the Highland Park Tragedy

Dr. Michael Lubelfeld, superintendent of North Shore School District 112, brings decades of education leadership experience to discuss the profound impact of the 2022 Highland Park shooting on both his community and schools. In this episode, Mike shares how deliberate leadership, collaboration with emergency responders, and trauma-informed care guided his district’s response and recovery.

He highlights the importance of established partnerships and communication during crisis, as well as ongoing safety initiatives including upgraded physical security, behavioral threat assessments, and mental health resources. Mike also reflects on evolving school security practices such as locked doors, integrating AI responsibly, and amplifying student voice in safety decisions.

More episode highlights include:

  • Adrenaline leadership in crisis response
  • Building community resilience through collaboration
  • Innovative safety upgrades and behavioral change

Click here to listen to this episode of the podcast.

Who is Dr. Michael Lubelfeld

Dr. Michael Lubelfeld is superintendent of North Shore School District 112 in Illinois and has led school districts since 2010. A nationally recognized education leader, author, and speaker, he presents on leadership, student voice, global service, and innovation. He co-authored five books, including The Unlearning Leader and The Unfinished Teacher. Dr. Lubelfeld was honored as a 2025 Top 100 Influencer in Education and is a 2025-26 ISTE-ASCD Generation AI Fellow and Google-GSV Fellow. He has received multiple leadership awards and remains dedicated to empowering future-focused educators. He lives in suburban Chicago with his wife and two children.

Connect with Mike:

Meet the host:

Paul Timm, Director of Education Safety for Allegion, is a board-certified Physical Security Professional (PSP), author of School Security: How to Build and Strengthen a School Safety Program, and a nationally acclaimed expert in physical security. He is also a member of PASS, CSC, ASIS International’s School Safety & Security Council and IASBO (Illinois Association of School Business Officials) Risk Management Committee.  Since 1999, Paul has conducted physical security assessments and provided technical assistance for clients nationwide and in Canada.

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