SASKATOON- As the issue of safe schools rises to the top of schools’ priority lists, the Canadian Safe School Network has expanded to open a Western Canada office in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.

The Canadian Safe School Network (CSSN) is a national, not-for-profit, registered charitable organization with a mandate to reduce youth violence and make our schools and communities safer. The escalation of youth violence in our schools and communities continues to be concern that requires immediate attention. The increasing number of bullying and violent schoolyard incidents indicates the need for continuing initiatives to be taken between government, police, schools and community agencies. CSSN works with police services, school boards, the municipal, provincial and federal governments and the business community to find new solutions to the problem of youth violence.

In response to a growing demand for safe schools professional development opportunities for parents, teachers, students and community members, this office will provide direct services to Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Alberta. Upcoming events include:
- Safe Schools Conference in Saskatoon - February 24-26th, 2010;
- Threat Assessment Certification Course on February 23 & 24th, 2010;
- Threat Assessment Certification Course on May 6& 7, 2010.
Additional information on the Safe Schools Certification program and subject-specific workshops will be made available in the spring.

CSSN is looking forward to working with Suzanne Zwarych, the Executive Director of the Western Canada office.