EPHRATA — The Ephrata School District announced that it has been awarded a $30,000 School Safety Center — Violence Prevention and Intervention grant from the Washington Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction. It is expected to aid in proactive prevention, according to Ephrata SD Communications Director Sarah Morford.  

“This effort is not in response to a specific spike in violence,” she said. “We believe prevention is always better than reaction. By investing in training, awareness and early intervention strategies, we are strengthening the systems that keep our students safe and supported.” 

Ephrata is one of five districts that received the grant funding, and was nominated by Hunter McLeod, a threat assessment coordinator for the North Central Education Services District who coordinates a variety of safety issues with Ephrata Schools, Morford said. The funding will be used to train staff to ensure a standardized approach to safety and violence prevention and to pay for collaborative work sessions involving school leaders, counselors, law enforcement, mental health professionals, community groups and others, with a special focus on gang awareness.  

“This funding provides an important opportunity to strengthen systems that help students feel safe, connected and supported,” said Ephrata School District Superintendent, Ken Murray in a press release. “By partnering with families, community organizations and local agencies, we can proactively address challenges and build a stronger safety net around our students.” 

The funding will also support a community town hall, similar to one held last year in Ephrata, that allows community members to learn about the gangs that are active in and near Ephrata and online safety. Both continue to be concerns not only in Ephrata, but throughout the Columbia Basin. The event is scheduled for Wednesday, May 6, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Ephrata High School Performing Arts Center.  

The overall goal is to raise awareness and partner with the community to improve student safety.  

“This work is about prevention, connection and partnership,” Murray said. “When students feel seen and supported by trusted adults, our schools become safer and more welcoming for everyone.”