September 9, 2025
HOUSTON, Texas—District and charter schools in Region 4 are taking emergency preparedness to the next level, with 24 earning or pursuing advanced safety certifications that go beyond state requirements.
Region 4 Education Service Center (Region 4) commends these schools for their commitment to student safety through two key initiatives: the School Safety and Security Recognition (SSSR) program and the Active Shooter Preparedness (ASP) Certification program.
The SSSR program provides safety audits, staff training, and ongoing support to build capacity and improve safety systems across campuses, helping districts meet requirements outlined in Texas Education Code §37.108. Currently, 23 districts and charter schools in Region 4 are participating.
The ASP Certification program evaluates districts on 21 operational standards, including crisis communication and threat assessment procedures, to ensure schools are prepared to respond effectively in any crisis. Twelve districts are enrolled in this program at various certification levels.
“We’re seeing tremendous commitment from our partner districts and charter schools to create safer learning environments,” said Ken Culbreath, Director of Emergency Management and School Safety at Region 4. “These programs equip schools with the tools, training, and expertise necessary to enhance preparedness and ensure they are ready to respond to any crisis.”
Districts demonstrating exceptional school safety practices will be honored at the Dr. Rod Paige Safety in Action Awards, held during the Region 4 School Safety Expo on Thursday, October 30.
Awards will be presented in the following categories: Innovation in Safety, Safety in Action, Safety Team, and Safety in Leadership.
These awards represent Region 4’s highest honor for excellence in school safety and crisis response. “The recipients demonstrate the proactive leadership and innovative thinking that make our schools safer for everyone,” Culbreath said. “These awards celebrate leaders who go above and beyond to protect their school communities.”
The Region 4 School Safety Expo is a free, in-person event open to educators, law enforcement, emergency responders, families, and community members committed to safer schools. Attendees will hear from dynamic speakers, explore best practices, and learn the latest strategies in school safety. To register, visit esc4.net/event/school-safety-expo-2025/.
Participating Districts and Charter Schools
AAMA George I. Sanchez Charter School—SSSR, ASP
A+Unlimited Potential Charter School—SSSR
Accelerated Interdisciplinary Intermediate Academy—SSSR
Amigos por Vida Charter School—SSSR
Beatrice Mayes Institute Charter School—SSSR, ASP
Calvin Nelms Charter School—SSSR
Channelview ISD—SSSR, ASP
Cleveland ISD—SSSR
Columbus ISD—SSSR
Fort Bend ISD—SSSR
Galveston ISD—SSSR, ASP
Huffman ISD—SSSR
Lamar CISD—SSSR, ASP
Legacy School of Sport Sciences—SSSR, ASP
MeyerPark Charter School—SSSR
Needville ISD—ASP
Pro-Vision Academy—SSSR
Royal ISD—SSSR, ASP
Sheldon ISD—SSSR, ASP
Spring Branch ISD—SSSR
Spring ISD—SSSR, ASP
Tarkington ISD—SSSR, ASP
The Varnett Public Schools—SSSR
Waller ISD—SSSR, ASP
2024 Dr. Rod Paige Safety in Action Award Recipients
Spring Branch ISD
Pasadena ISD
Waller ISD
Goose Creek CISD