Committed to a Safe and Secure Learning Environment

The Office of Safety, Security & Emergency Management (SSEM) is dedicated to safeguarding Arlington Public Schools students, staff, and the broader community through a proactive and comprehensive systems-based approach to school security. This framework allows us to effectively manage risks, respond swiftly to threats, and foster a culture of safety across all APS facilities. Our recent Monitoring Report to the School Board highlighted the positive impact of these efforts, as reflected in the latest Your Voice Matters (YVM) survey data:

• A significant 91% of school-based staff now report feeling safe and secure in their work environment (Spring 2025), compared to 48% in Spring 2024.
• 85% of students in grades 6-12 report feeling safe in their school (Spring 2025), an increase from 67% in the 2023-24 survey.

These encouraging results demonstrate the effectiveness of our integrated strategies, which include:

• Strategic investments in physical security and technology.
• The vital role of our School Safety Coordinators and security professionals.
• Clear and consistently applied security policies and procedures.
• Comprehensive emergency management planning and training.
• Strong collaboration with local law enforcement and community partners.

We are committed to continuous improvement and will continue to utilize our systems-based approach to further enhance the safety and well-being of our entire APS community.

Watch the full Monitoring Report presentation to the School Board: