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 Community Oriented Policing Program awarded McDowell County Board Of Education (doing business as MC Dowell Public Schools) $500,000 under the School Violence Prevention Program (CFDA 16.071) on October 1, 2025, for a three-year period ending September 30, 2028.

The award funds evidence-based school security improvements at schools within McDowell County's jurisdiction in Welch, West Virginia. Eligible uses include coordination with local law enforcement, training for law enforcement officers to prevent student violence, placement and use of metal detectors, locks, lighting, and other deterrent measures, and acquisition and installation of technology for expedited emergency notification of local law enforcement. The recipient must consult with law enforcement, licensed mental health professionals, social workers, students, parents, teachers, principals, and other school personnel to ensure improvements are consistent with a comprehensive approach to school violence prevention and tailored to the needs of individual schools.

The recipient is responsible for semiannual programmatic performance reports, quarterly Federal Financial Reports (SF-425), and a final closeout report. Award decisions are final and not subject to appeal. Extensions beyond the three-year term may be considered on a case-by-case basis for up to 12 additional months upon approval by the COPS Office Director.

Funding under this award program will be used by the school jurisdiction to implement evidence-based programs to improve school security.