New Hampshire Makes Key Progress in Enhancing School Safety

CONCORD, NH - The State of New Hampshire continues to make significant investments in school safety, combining targeted funding for facility improvements with strengthened coordination, training, and preparedness for law enforcement and school personnel statewide.

"Our state has made important strides in safeguarding our students and improving security at our schools, but when it comes to protecting children, our work is never done," said Governor Kelly Ayotte. "By strengthening coordination across agencies, investing in proven safety upgrades, and ensuring our first responders and educators are trained and prepared, New Hampshire continues to take meaningful steps to keep our schools safe."

As part of this effort, the New Hampshire Department of Education this month awarded $8 million in Security Action for Education (SAFE) grants to fund school safety improvement projects across the state. The State has allocated additional Public School Infrastructure funds for a statewide Critical Incident Mapping project that will provide first responders with detailed, school-specific information during emergencies. The State is currently seeking bids for a contract to complete this critical initiative.

"The safety of our students and educators is fundamental to learning. New Hampshire is making thoughtful investments to ensure our schools are safe, supportive environments where every student can thrive," said Commissioner of Education Caitlin D. Davis.

New Hampshire has also made substantial progress in implementing the recommendations of the School Safety Preparedness Task Force, established under former Governor Chris Sununu. Of the 59 recommendations outlined in the 2018 report, 47 have been completed, with the remaining recommendations either in progress or under continued monitoring. Seven more recommendations have been identified since the initial report and work on those recommendations is in progress. Since taking office, Governor Ayotte has prioritized student and school safety, directing the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) to resume quarterly meetings of the School Safety Preparedness Task Force and look at how the State can build on progress made to better protect students, educators, and support staff.

"New Hampshire is safer and stronger when everyone is working together to ensure we're prepared in the event of an emergency," said HSEM Director Robert Buxton. "While we have made tremendous progress in implementing the School Safety Preparedness Task Force's original recommendations, we know our work is always ongoing. We will continue to evaluate our efforts, identify areas for improvement, and strengthen coordination so schools and responders are prepared for any type of incident."

Key accomplishments and ongoing initiatives include:

• Statewide training and preparedness
  • Implemented active shooter and hostile-event response training statewide for law enforcement, fire, EMS, and other first responders.
  • Expanded school-based exercises and coordinated training programs for School Resource Officers and emergency personnel.
• School readiness and compliance
  • Completed over 1,300 school safety assessments since the program began in 2014.
  • Achieved 99% compliance among public schools with required Emergency Operations Plans.
• Facility and communication improvements
  • Supported school safety upgrades through SAFE grants and best-practice guidance for facility improvements.
  • Enhanced emergency communications through improved alert systems, interoperable radio guidance, and 911 labeling support.
• Mental health and prevention
  • Expanded access to mental health training, wellness initiatives, and prevention programs to support proactive, comprehensive school safety efforts.
  • Looking ahead, the State will continue to build on this progress in 2026, formalizing the School Safety Preparedness Task Force under the Advisory Committee on Emergency Preparedness and Security.