For Immediate Release:
February 6, 2025
For press inquiries only, contact:
Amanda Priest (334) 322-5694
William Califf (334) 604-3230
(Russellville, Ala.) – Attorney General Steve Marshall today presented the 2024 Safe School Initiative Award to Russellville Elementary School in Russellville, Alabama. The award provides the opportunity to recognize the excellent implementation of safety plans and identify current trends in school safety.
“Russellville Elementary School’s dedication to safety is exceptional. Through the implementation of advanced security measures, building strong partnerships with law enforcement, and focusing on student well-being, they have set a benchmark for safe and effective learning environments,” said Attorney General Marshall. “This award acknowledges their commitment to not only meeting but surpassing the highest standards of school safety.”
In presenting the award, Attorney General Marshall stated, “The Attorney General’s Office is proud of Russellville Elementary School for being selected as a winning school in Alabama for 2024. Judges highlighted several factors that set Russellville Elementary apart: the safety team’s extensive efforts exceeding safety plan standards, excellent collaboration with first responders, and the thorough preparation that ensured students were well-versed in plans and procedures.”
Russellville Elementary School Principal Tiffany Warhurst stated, “We are incredibly honored that Russellville Elementary School has been recognized as one of only six schools in Alabama to receive this award. This achievement reflects the dedication of our teachers, students, and community to creating a safe and supportive environment for learning. Together, we are committed to ensuring the safety and success of every student and will continue to provide a safe place for them to learn.”
The selection process featured a comprehensive application and review process by a panel of independent judges who possess real-world insight into school safety trends. All applicants were evaluated in their ability to enhance safe school protocols through preparation and training; collaboration with local emergency response agencies; involvement of school resource officer or alternate security personnel; structure and innovation of safety technology, community participation; and law-related and prevention education.
For the Attorney General’s Safe Schools Initiative, six schools from across the State of Alabama were selected to receive the Safe School Award, the highest achievement. Those winners are: 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
An additional eight schools exceeded the minimum state requirements and exhibited dedication to higher standards for student learning, mental health, and safety. These schools were recognized by receiving a congratulatory letter and certificate from the Attorney General.
