CULLMAN, Ala. – Cullman City Primary School (CCPS) has been honored for its efforts and commitment to school safety, with the campus one of only six schools in the state of Alabama to be named a 2024 Safe Schools Initiative Awards Winner.
To be selected as a Safe Schools Initiative Winner, schools go through a four-phase application and review process led by judges with knowledge about school safety trends. The schools were noted for developing innovative safety programs and taking practical, effective steps to combat the threat of violence. For example, the badge entry and camera system implemented at CCPS, as well as storm shelter features, were among the new innovations at the school noted in the honor.
CCPS in Cullman is joined by Orange Beach Middle & High School, UMS-Wright Preparatory School, Ladonia Elementary School, Russellville Elementary School and Elvin Hill Elementary School as the six winning schools.
“The safety of our schoolchildren is always on the forefront of our minds and hearts. That is why it is important to highlight and promote the innovative efforts to improve student safety through the Alabama Safe Schools Initiative,” Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall said. “Their dedication and resolve to provide a safe environment for learning is an inspiration to us all. I look forward to continuing to spotlight the best school safety ideas for school administrators, resource officers, parents and students.”
CCPS Principal Elizabeth Shaddix noted safety has always been an incredibly high priority, and the duty of being entrusted with the youngest learners in the district is never one they take lightly.
“This process started two years ago when a core team of school faculty attended a safety
conference. We identified priorities within our school in regard to safety measures we wanted to implement. In addition, school safety is prioritized in the district’s strategic commitments,” she explained. “When I found out we were the recipients of this award, I was extremely proud of our faculty and staff. This demonstrates each person’s commitment to keeping our students safe. I would like to say a special thank you to our CCPS safety team, including Ross Jochum, Lorene Howell, Sharon Pruett, Erika Lee, Heather Battles, Keri Bates, Christy Free, Marci Watts, Tyler Skinner, Heather Morrow, Jean Marie Yearwood and SRO Daniel Palisay.”
As part of the selection process, an in-depth site visit was held at CCPS, utilizing parents, community stakeholders and school staff to participate in safety rounds to gather feedback and implement changes.
CCPS will be presented the award on-campus in February 2025 by Marshall.
