From the Podium
Edward J. Brophy
Director of Human Resources and Administrative Services
Northbrook School District 28
A Human Centered Approach to School Risk Management
Risk management in schools is often described in terms of procedures, insurance policies, compliance requirements and operational safeguards. While all of these are essential, I’ve come to believe that effective risk management begins with something equally important: the way we lead. As I reflect on my theme “Leading With Empathy,” I see clearly how deeply empathy shapes our ability to anticipate challenges, strengthen our systems and care for the people who depend on us every day.
In today’s schools, risk is evolving rapidly — from cybersecurity threats to facility safety, from student wellness concerns to the complexities of community facility use. Yet behind every risk is a student, a staff member, a family or a community that relies on us not simply to manage risks, but to understand the human impact behind them. As Board President, I am reminded that our role in our districts is not only to prevent harm, but to build trust.
Empathy begins with listening. Some of the most valuable insights about risk don’t come from reports or audits but from the people experiencing the day-to-day reality of our school environments. When a transportation director warns us about unsafe drop off patterns, when a teacher raises concerns about emergency procedures or when our technology team flags vulnerabilities in digital systems, these aren’t just operational notes — they are opportunities to strengthen our collective safety culture. Empathy requires that we treat these voices as essential contributors to our solutions, not just one-off occurrences.
This mindset also guides how we communicate. In moments when difficult decisions must be made — a change in insurance coverage, a shift in policy, investment in capital projects — empathetic leadership helps us explain the “why,” involve stakeholders early and consider the lived experiences of those affected by those choices. That transparency builds trust, and trust strengthens resilience.
What inspires me most is seeing how the school business community throughout Illinois is already living this approach. Across our districts, leaders are combining technical skill with compassion, implementing innovative approaches to risk while keeping people at the heart of their decisions. That balance is what elevates our work
from managing uncertainty to shaping safe, supportive communities.
I look forward to continuing these conversations at the 2026 Illinois ASBO Annual Conference in Peoria, April 29 to May 1. This gathering will be an invaluable opportunity to learn from one another, explore strategies for navigating emerging risks and deepen our shared commitment to empathetic leadership.
Risk management will always be about preparation and protection — but when we lead with empathy, it becomes just as much about connection, trust and care. That is how we build safer schools, better communities and, ultimately, a more connected and empathetic society.