For Immediate Release:
March 4, 2026
For press inquiries only, contact:
Amanda Priest (334) 322-5694
William Califf (334) 604-3230
(Decatur, Ala.) – Attorney General Steve Marshall presented a 2025 Safe School Award to Eastwood Elementary School in Decatur, 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 Eastwood 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.”
During the presentation, Attorney General Marshall noted that the judges recognized Eastwood Elementary School for its proactive and compassionate approach to student safety and well-being. Through strong partnerships with local agencies and participation in the Handle with Care initiative, staff received timely notifications about community incidents that may affect students, enabling swift support when a child displays atypical behavior. Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) alerts for incidents within 500 yards of campus further ensure immediate awareness and ensure an appropriate response.
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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