The basis for academic excellence is a safe and secure learning environment, free from fear of crime and violence. Schools are an integral part of every community, and the resources of the entire community must be tapped in order to provide a safe and effective school climate. The Virginia Center for School Safety reflects the Commonwealth's commitment to providing that environment for all children and staff in our schools. Through proactive legislation, training, partnerships, resources, data collection, and evaluation, Virginia continues to respond to the requests and needs of those that are providing the services that affect our children, our future. The Virginia General Assembly has enacted school safety laws to protect our children and provide resources to the schools.
Every school is required to have a written school emergency and crisis management plan.
Every school is required to conduct a written assessment of the safety conditions in the school. Establishes the School Resource Officer Grants Program to disburse matching grants to local law enforcement agencies and school boards to employ uniformed SROs in middle and high schools. Establishes the Virginia Center for School Safety in the Department of Criminal Justice Services. Through the VCSS and many other state agencies, Virginia provides a wealth of training opportunities to localities, most free of charge. Please visit our Training page for more information.