WASHINGTON, D.C.– The U.S. Department of Justice Office of Community Oriented Policing Services recently produced a school safety resource package, compiled on compact disc, containing practical advice to deter violence and crime within educational institutions. U.S. Rep. Ron Lewis (KY-02) will begin distributing complimentary copies of the CD this week to Junior and Senior High Schools across Kentucky’s Second Congressional District.

 

“Recent tragedies in Ohio and Virginia highlight the growing need for all educational institutions to take precautions to deter violence and crime within our nation’s schools,” said Lewis. “Keeping schoolchildren safe is a priority we all share.” 

 

The Department of Justice compilation addresses issues such as developing a successful school safety program and emergency response plan; assessing and reducing gang activity in local communities; effective responses to reducing bullying in schools; responding to bomb threats against schools; dealing with disorderly youth who congregate in public places; preventing school vandalism and break-ins; and gun violence among youth. 

 

“This is an important resource to prevent future tragedies,” said Lewis. “I encourage school administrators to review these materials and consider applying suggested precautions to enhance their safety plans.”

 

The Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) program has funded more than 6,300 school resource officers and trained over 2,900 school administrators to help provide a safe learning environment for children.

 

Educational professionals may request additional copies of the COPS school safety CD free of charge through Lewis’ congressional office. 1-800-367-6676.

 

 

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