A Simple Scan Makes a Big Impact for Arlington ISD Safety Efforts

When Arlington ISD staff noticed an uptick in injuries across the district, they looked closer at the data in hopes of uncovering the underlying causes. Staff found that a large portion of injuries reported, more than 50%, were preventable.

The district’s risk management team knew they needed to address preventable injuries in a user-friendly way that would not overwhelm employees, who are busy doing their day-to-day jobs.

“We wanted to bring forth a proactive approach to all the injuries we were having here within the district,” Jennifer Bakare-Brown, Arlington ISD’s safety manager, said.

So, the team created a simple, digital form that staff can access via QR codes posted throughout the district. The form is clear, short, and even allows staff to upload photos of their specific concern.

“For the program to receive buy-in from our employees, we wanted to make it simple and accessible and very easy for anyone to do,” Jennifer said.

Safety is Everyone’s Responsibility

A large part of the Near Miss Program’s success can be attributed to the group effort taken on by all employees at Arlington ISD, not just the risk management department.

Lesley Cano, the district’s library coordinator, saw the program as an opportunity to involve her team in identifying risks and improving workflows.

“I sat down with the team because of the Near Miss Program and looked at our processes,” Leslie said. “Let’s look at how we do things, how we can do them safely, and identify areas that you are concerned about.”

That conversation led to meaningful changes. One of the primary concerns Leslie's staff raised involved lifting and transporting heavy materials. After reviewing the risk, Arlington ISD’s risk management team recommended new equipment to reduce strain and prevent injury. The district ultimately invested in a hydraulic lift table that can be rolled directly into the work area.

“That changed things dramatically,” Leslie said. “Our staff felt like no matter who it is, we can get it on that hydraulic lift table.”

Beyond equipment, the program reinforced safer work habits, including encouraging staff to work in teams when handling heavy or awkward items. For Leslie and her team, the process felt supportive rather than punitive.

“Nobody was blaming anybody. They just came out and asked how we can help prevent an injury,” Leslie said

No‑blame Approach

That no‑blame philosophy is central to how the Near Miss Program operates across the district. Arlington ISD intentionally designed the program to ensure employees feel comfortable speaking up without fear of repercussions.

“We implemented the program as a no‑blame process, meaning that you can report anything anytime with no repercussions,” Jennifer said.

Once a report is submitted, it goes directly to the risk management team. Within 24 to 48 hours, employees receive follow‑up communication confirming the report and outlining next steps. In many cases, members of the risk management team visit the campus or facility to assess the concern in person.

Clear communication throughout the process helps reinforce trust and accountability. Employees are kept informed as issues are addressed, whether through repairs, procedural changes, or longer‑term planning.

“We try our best to communicate openly and close the gap with the employees, so they are aware of the process every step of the way,” Director of Risk Management Curt Fernandez said.

Turning Reports into Results

As employees became more familiar with the Near Miss Program, participation steadily increased. While early adoption was gradual, the district now sees regular reports submitted by campuses and departments.

“We have seen an increased number of near misses being reported, meaning that employees are engaged with the process,” Jennifer said.

Those reports have led to tangible improvements, from facility repairs to policy updates. They have also helped prevent minor issues from becoming serious injuries, which is key in preventing lost workdays or disruption to daily operations.

“By reporting early and making sure it's done in a very methodological, structured way, we don't have those losses or associated costs,” Chief Human Resources Officer Scott Kahl said.

The Near Miss Program underscores the importance of ensuring employees feel heard and valued. When employees feel supported, they are more willing to speak up. And when everyone plays a role in safety, the entire district benefits.

“Rather than this being a one directional program, our objective is to make sure when people come to work, to take care of kids, both educationally and otherwise, that people aren't getting hurt in the process,” Scott said.