Santee School District Appoints Michael Castillo as Director of Safety and Security
The Santee School District is pleased to announce the appointment of Michael Castillo as the District's first Director of Safety and Security, a newly created leadership position that reflects the District's ongoing commitment to ensuring safe, secure, and welcoming learning environments for all students and staff.
The creation of the Director of Safety and Security position follows a comprehensive safety assessment conducted by Safe and Sound Schools (SASS), a nationally recognized nonprofit school safety organization. In January 2026, the District partnered with SASS to conduct safety assessments, campus walkthroughs, and workshops for school leaders and the community. One of the organization's key recommendations, echoed by staff, parents, and community partners throughout the engagement process, was the establishment of a dedicated District safety leadership position.
Castillo brings nearly two decades of public safety and security leadership experience to the District. Since 2007, he has served as Law Enforcement Manager/Trainer at the University of San Diego, where he has overseen daily security operations and collaborated with local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to maintain safe environments for students, staff, and visitors. His extensive public safety experience, police academy training, and professional certifications make him well-equipped to lead the District's comprehensive safety and security efforts.
"Student and staff safety remains our highest priority," said Superintendent Dr. Kristin Baranski. "The creation of the Director of Safety and Security position represents another important investment in protecting our schools and strengthening the comprehensive safety measures already in place across our District. Mr. Castillo’s leadership, experience, and collaborative approach will complement and enhance the significant investments we have made in campus security while helping us continue to foster safe, supportive learning environments for every student and employee."
As Director of Safety and Security, Castillo will oversee the District's comprehensive safety initiatives, emergency preparedness, security planning, and partnerships with local public safety agencies. He will work closely with school administrators, staff, families, and community partners to continuously evaluate and strengthen the District's safety practices.
"I am honored to join the Santee School District and look forward to working alongside our dedicated leadership team, employees, families, and community partners," said Castillo. "Together, we will continue to build upon the District's strong foundation of safety while enhancing the systems, relationships, and preparedness that help ensure every student and staff member can learn and work in a safe and secure environment."
The appointment reinforces the District's continued commitment to proactively investing in school safety and implementing nationally recognized best practices to support the well-being of its school communities.