Department of Justice (DOJ) STOP School Violence Program Grant
Promoting School Climate & Violence Prevention through the Connections Program in Mississippi
Grant Amount: $2 million
Creating safer, more inclusive school environments is essential for fostering student success. Rural schools in Mississippi face unique challenges, including high rates of bullying, absenteeism, and violence, often exacerbated by socioeconomic disparities and limited access to resources. The Center for Practical Ethics’ Connections Program is designed to address these challenges by promoting positive school climates and reducing violence through evidence-based interventions and community collaboration. It illustrates how combining ethical education with practical solutions can transform school climates, ensuring all students thrive in supportive, secure environments.
The Connections Program involves teachers, counselors, parents and school resource officers working to implement a curriculum that encourages students to think critically about their actions and decisions. By developing these skills, the researchers aim to reduce the number of chronically absent students and safety concerns in schools.
Schools included in Connections Program include:
Covington County School District
Hazelhurst Public School District
Hinds County School District
Laurel Public School District
McComb Public School District
Moss Point School District
North Pike County School District
South Pike County School District
Vicksburg-Warren County School District
Yazoo County School District
GRANT OVERVIEW
The STOP School Violence Act of 2018 enhances school security by equipping students and teachers with tools to recognize, respond to, and prevent violence. Grants from the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) and the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) support evidence-based programs to improve safety in schools and on school grounds.
EXPECTED OUTCOMES
Safer Schools:
Effective threat assessments and emergency response plans.
Empowered Students:
Measurable improvements in academic performance and civic skills, including conflict resolution and perspective-taking.
Engaged Communities:
Increased participation from families and community leaders in supporting school safety initiatives.
Accessible Resources:
Program materials and research findings available on the Center for Practical Ethics website for long-term use.