The safety of students and staff is one of the most important responsibilities of a superintendent. This mixed-method study examined school security and emergency management protocols in Nebraska public schools. This study used qualitative perceptual data to compare the importance school superintendents place on safety and security emergency management protocols. This study also sought to identify any relationships between the size of school district and the level of preparedness for an emergency situation. The results show a discrepancy between the importance placed on emergency management protocols by the superintendents throughout the state and their perception of protocol effectiveness. The research shows statistical significance (r[110] = 0.189, p<0.05) between the size of school and the preparedness and response for emergencies in that larger schools are more prepared for responses to emergencies than smaller schools. The positive correlation between school district enrollment with preparedness and response suggests school districts with larger enrollment are more effective being prepared and responding to emergencies that involve a weapon or law enforcement response. Finally, the quantitative results of the survey show a large number (81%) of respondents are not in favor of arming teachers and staff at school as part of an emergency response plan. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]