The purpose of the cops office school violence prevention program (svpp) is to improve security at schools and on school grounds through school safety programs and technology

The U.S. Department of Justice's Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) awarded a $199,681 Project Grant under the Public Safety Partnership and Community Policing Grants program (CFDA 16.710) to Hellgate Elementary SD #4, a local government school district in Missoula, MT. The funding will be used by the school district to implement evidence-based programs that improve school security and promote a positive learning environment for all students. Key focus areas include enhancing physical security, implementing mental health crisis intervention training, and acquiring virtual reality simulation technologies to advance officer de-escalation capabilities. The 3-year grant, with a performance period from October 1, 2024 to September 30, 2027, aligns with the COPS Office's mission to assist state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies in developing and implementing community policing strategies.

Funding under this award program will be used by the school jurisdiction to implement evidence-based programs to improve school security and promote a positive learning environment for all students.