Attorney General Steve Marshall's Office has awarded the 2024 Safe School Initiative Award to UMS Wright Preparatory School in Mobile, Alabama. The award was presented by Katherine Robertson, Chief Counsel to the Attorney General, acknowledging the school's exemplary safety plans and response to current trends in school safety.
"UMS Wright Preparatory School exemplifies what it means to prioritize the safety and well-being of students," stated Attorney General Steve Marshall. "Their proactive approach, strong partnerships, and unwavering commitment to preparedness set a standard for schools across Alabama."
Marshall added that judges noted several factors distinguishing UMS Wright Preparatory School, including bi-annual “Stop the Bleed” training sessions, semesterly safety trainings with monthly emergency drills, strong ties with local emergency agencies, and using the CrisisGo platform.
Garrett Humphrey, Director of Campus Safety and Security at UMS-Wright, expressed his gratitude: “Winning the 2024 School Safe Award is a tremendous honor for UMS-Wright... I am incredibly grateful to everyone in our school community for making [safety] a top priority each and every day.”
The selection process involved an extensive application review by independent judges familiar with school safety trends. Applicants were assessed on their ability to enhance safe school protocols through preparation and training; collaboration with local emergency agencies; involvement of security personnel; use of safety technology; community participation; and prevention education.
Six schools from Alabama received the Safe School Award: Orange Beach Middle & High School (Orange Beach), UMS-Wright Preparatory School (Mobile), Ladonia Elementary School (Phenix City), Russellville Elementary School (Russellville), Cullman City Primary School (Cullman), and Elvin Hill Elementary School (Columbiana).
Eight additional schools exceeded state requirements in student learning, mental health, and safety standards. These schools received congratulatory letters and certificates from the Attorney General.