Little rock violence intervention and safety innovative outreach network will implement advanced safety technologies, including behavioral threat assessments to manage and intervene in potential…

The U.S. Department of Justice's Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) awarded a $1,999,970 Project Grant under the STOP School Violence Program (CFDA 16.839) to the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. The grant will fund the "Little Rock Violence Intervention and Safety Innovative Outreach Network" (LR VISION) project, which aims to enhance school safety and prevent violence in K-12 schools in Little Rock, Arkansas.

The project will implement advanced safety technologies, including behavioral threat assessments, campus digital mapping, anonymous reporting systems, and comprehensive site assessments to identify and address safety concerns. Additionally, the project will provide professional development training for school staff in restorative justice practices, trauma-informed practices, and virtual education to better support students. An advisory council of teachers, students, and the community will guide the project and help identify emerging issues to be addressed. The project period runs from Oct 1, 2024, to Sep 30, 2027.

The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences will serve as the prime grantee, and the Little Rock School District will receive a $56,268 sub-grant to participate in the project and help implement the safety and training initiatives across the local school system.

Little rock violence intervention and safety innovative outreach network will implement advanced safety technologies, including behavioral threat assessments to manage and intervene in potential threats early; campus digital mapping to enhance emergency responses; anonymous reporting systems to encourage safe and confidential reporting; and comprehensive site assessments to identify and address safety concerns within school infrastructures. Additionally, the project will offer professional development training in restorative justice practices, trauma-informed practices, and virtual education to equip school staff with the necessary tools and knowledge to support students effectively. An advisory council of teachers, students, and the community will guide the project and help identify emerging issues that can be addressed through actionable improvements to safety and the program, along with ideas for online education that will be available through a secure 24/7 digital learning platform.