For Immediate Release:
February 23, 2026
For press inquiries only, contact:
Amanda Priest (334) 322-5694
William Califf (334) 604-3230
(Opelika, Ala.) – Attorney General Steve Marshall today presented a 2025 Safe School Award to Beauregard Elementary School in Opelika, Alabama. The award provides the opportunity to recognize the excellent implementation of safety plans and identify current trends in school safety.
“It was an honor to recognize Beauregard Elementary School for their exemplary commitment to safety. Through proactive security measures, strong partnerships with law enforcement, and an unwavering focus on students, they have created a learning environment where students and staff can thrive with confidence and peace of mind,” stated Attorney General Marshall. “Today’s recognition honors their dedication to going beyond expectations and setting the standard for school safety.”
During the presentation Attorney General Marshall noted, “Beauregard should be extremely proud to be selected for the 2025 Safe School Awards. The judges found the school was most aligned with national industry standards for Emergency Alert Systems which included locked and secure interior and exterior doors, behavior threat assessment process, scenario-based drills, anonymous tip-line, as well as emergency operations planning. Additionally, the school had an exceptional depth of collaboration and broad integration with first responders for everyday safety, events and emergencies.”
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.
Applicants from across Alabama applied for the 2025 Attorney General’s Safe Schools Initiative. The highest award, the Safe School Award was awarded 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 Thorton 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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