North Carolina School Safety Standards

School Safety Legislation & Resources

North Carolina Center for Safer Schools Awards Grant Funding

In June 2021, the North Carolina Task Force for Safer Schools endorsed the five-year North Carolina State Action Plan for School Safety (SAPSS). The SAPSS aims to “coordinate North Carolina school safety efforts across state government and with communities and schools so that efforts are efficient and effective and undertaken with accountability and shared responsibility.” The action plan emphasizes a proactive approach to school safety. This approach mandates that schools establish school safety plans conducive to creating positive learning environments in North Carolina schools. The SAPSS also recommends that districts enhance existing school- and community-based safety solutions and take a data-driven approach to improving safety.

The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction’s Center for Safer Schools (CFSS) announced $35 million in school safety grants in January 2024. The CFSS distributed these funds to North Carolina schools in early 2024. Schools can use grant funding toward purchases and improvements that help them meet SAPSS goals. These investments can include professional development training for school staff to support students experiencing anxiety, trauma, or behavioral issues and school-based mental health services.

Safety equipment purchases are also eligible for CFSS grant funding. These may include:

• Communication devices
• Safety software upgrades
• Cameras
• Vape detectors
• Badge readers
• Keyless entry systems
• Remote door openers
• Weapons detection systems
• Other safety technologies

According to North Carolina State Superintendent Catherine Truitt, “Nothing is more important than making our schools safer and more secure, and these grants will continue to play a vital role. This funding will help improve school security in many ways, including updating technology and training to prevent future emergencies.”

The CENTEGIX Safety Platform^®: a North Carolina School Safety Solution

The CENTEGIX Safety Platform is the foundation of a multilayered school safety plan. It helps districts meet SAPSS goals and create a culture of safety in North Carolina schools. The technologies included in the Safety Platform qualify for CFSS grant funding and assist administrators in meeting grant reporting requirements.  

The CENTEGIX Safety Platform facilitates:

• Accelerated emergency response using an innovative incident command system
• Seamless and efficient lockdown procedures
• Foundational knowledge on which to base active shooter plans and procedures
• A streamlined and expedited process for requesting help during medical emergencies
• Staff access to missing student information in the event of student elopement
• Quick access to the vital data needed for successful reunification plans

The CENTEGIX Safety Platform: Creating a Culture of Safety

CENTEGIX solutions are a foundation for a school safety plan that prioritizes staff and students’ safety and well-being. The following features of the CENTEGIX Safety Platform make it an effective North Carolina school safety solution:

• Reliable communication: no Wi-Fi or cellular connectivity is required.
• Ease of adoption: staff is not required to download or learn to use an app.
• Rapid access to first responders: staff can connect immediately to diverse emergency services.
• Communication in emergencies: first responder agencies can coordinate in real time.
• Instant alerts: integration with local public safety answering points facilitates 911 calls and mobile notifications.

Discover the platform here.

CENTEGIX Safety Report 2026 School Safety Trends:
Clarity in Crisis - Replacing Uncertainty with Coordinated Response

Built from more than 346,000 wearable panic button alerts collected during the 2025–2026 school year, the 2026 School Safety Trends Report provides a comprehensive look at how K-12 schools are improving emergency response, strengthening preparedness, and enhancing campus safety nationwide through clarity.

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