For Immediate Release:
March 5, 2026
For press inquiries only, contact:
Amanda Priest (334) 322-5694
William Califf (334) 604-3230
(Columbiana, Ala.) – Attorney General Steve Marshall presented a 2025 Safe School Award to Elvin Hill Elementary School in Columbiana, Alabama. For the second consecutive year, Elvin Hill was recognized for the excellent implementation of safety plans and identifying current trends in school safety.
“Out of more than 1,500 public and private schools in our state, it is an honor to recognize Elvin Hill Elementary School as one of only nine schools selected for an Alabama Safe School Award,” Attorney General Marshall said. “Today we honor the success stories that enhance public safety and foster strong and vibrant communities.”
Attorney General Marshall stated during the presentation, “by building off last year’s success they are further strengthening the school’s commitment to nationally recognized standards. The enhancement of Elvin Hill Emergency Alert System requires three critical components for compliance to include campus-wide alerts, accessibility to all school personnel, and clear permission for use. This all the while maintaining locked, secured, and shut interior and exterior doors throughout the day. By building off the successful implementation of local Behavior Threat Assessment and Management process they promote early identification and intervention. Through continuous improvement, collaboration, and a culture of readiness, Elvin Hill Elementary demonstrates an unwavering commitment to protecting students and staff.”
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 on their ability to enhance safe school protocols through preparation and training; collaboration with local emergency response agencies; involvement of school resource officers or alternate security personnel; structure and innovation of safety technology; community participation; and law-related and prevention education.
Applicants from across Alabama applied for the 2025 Attorney General’s Safe Schools Initiative. The highest honor, the Safe School Award, went to nine schools. Attorney General Marshall will present each of the following schools with the awards for their incredible achievements: ACCEL Academy, Mobile; Orange Beach Middle & High School, Orange Beach; Northside High School, Northport; Beauregard Elementary School, Opelika; Allen Thornton Career Technical Center, Killen; Cullman City Primary School, Cullman; Eastwood Elementary School, Decatur; Elvin Hill Elementary School, Columbiana; and Harriette W. Gwin Elementary School, Hoover.
An additional four 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.
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