For Immediate Release:
March 5, 2026
For press inquiries only, contact:
Amanda Priest (334) 322-5694
William Califf (334) 604-3230
(Hoover, Ala.) – Attorney General Steve Marshall presented a 2025 Safe School Award to Harriette W. Gwin Elementary School in Hoover, Alabama. The award recognizes excellent implementation of safety plans and identifies current trends in school safety.
“Out of more than 1,500 public and private schools in our state, it is an honor to recognize Harriette W. Gwin Elementary School as one of only nine schools selected for an Alabama Safe School Award,” Attorney General Marshall said. “Today we honor their continued and prosperous pursuit to enhance public safety and foster strong, safe, and vibrant community.”
During today’s presentation, Attorney General Marshall spoke directly about the great work of the school. Marshall stated, “Based on feedback from last year’s application, Gwin Elementary’s leadership worked hard to enhance systems and make the school fully align with National Industry Standards. This included implementing a campus-wide Emergency Alert System with accessibility for all personnel and clear authorization for use. Building on last year’s successful campus security plan and proactive Behavior Threat Assessment and Management, Gwin Elementary improved campus wayfinding for routine and emergency response through continuous collaborative training with law enforcement. Gwin Elementary remains committed to preparedness, collaboration, and creating a safe, secure environment for every student and staff member.”
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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