For Escuela de Guadalupe, school safety is more than a policy—it’s a deeply embedded commitment. Over the years, the school has taken a holistic approach to security, ensuring that every child, teacher, and staff member is protected. One person who has played an integral role in that mission is Rick Sullivan, a retired school administrator whose dedication to safety has shaped Escuela’s approach to security.
Rick Sullivan’s relationship with Escuela dates back to its very inception. Rick was Principal at Regis Jesuit High School and, in the mid-1990s, he was invited by a priest from Our Lady of Guadalupe parish to help conceptualize a new school for the north Denver community. With time, that priest’s vision resulted in Escuela de Guadalupe opening its doors in 1999.
Meanwhile, Rick continued working at Regis Jesuit, where he served in multiple roles before eventually leading school security efforts. As Regis Jesuit expanded to include a Girls Division, Rick saw school safety as more than just a series of policies—he championed it as a comprehensive system requiring training, technological advancements, collaboration with law enforcement, and continuous improvement.
From Retirement to School Safety Consultant
Though he retired six years ago, Escuela de Guadalupe called on his expertise when its president, Michelle Galuszka, reached out at the recommendation of a board member. Without hesitation, Rick agreed to help.
“Rick has been an invaluable resource in making Escuela as safe as possible,” says Michelle. “His knowledge, dedication, and hands-on approach have transformed our security efforts year after year.”
When Rick first assessed Escuela’s security, he recognized a few vulnerabilities. Since then, Escuela has implemented a range of improvements, including electronic door badges, enhanced security camera systems inside and outside the school, taller fences, impact-resistant window film, and improved signage.
Incident Command Training
Beyond technology, Escuela has embraced proactive crisis management through training. One of the most notable initiatives is its adoption of Incident Command Training, a FEMA-developed protocol for crisis response. This system ensures that in the event of an emergency, everyone at the school—from teachers to administrators—knows their roles, follows a structured response plan, and works seamlessly with first responders. Few schools of Escuela’s size invest in this level of preparedness, making it a standout example of dedication to school safety.
Rick has remained a student of security trends, consistently analyzing school safety incidents nationwide to determine how Escuela can improve.
This level of vigilance has led to continuous updates in Escuela’s approach, including CPR training, annual drills for fire, lockouts, and lockdowns, reunification planning, and relationship-building with local police and fire departments.
Day-to-Day School Safety Efforts
But school security isn’t just about preventing extreme incidents. It also encompasses everyday safety—reducing slip-and-fall risks, improving playground supervision, and ensuring that emotional support is available after a crisis. For example, Escuela recently invested in training for its counselors to help students process traumatic events, whether it’s an emergency situation or a personal loss within the community.
Parents are also key partners in the security framework. The school regularly communicates with families about safety protocols, ensuring that they understand what to do in an emergency and reinforcing the message that Escuela takes school safety seriously.
Rick Sullivan’s expertise and unwavering commitment have helped shape a culture of safety at Escuela de Guadalupe. His contributions, along with the school’s continuous efforts, ensure that students can learn and grow in a secure, positive and productive environment—just as the school’s founders envisioned decades ago.
