PGCPS Celebrates Inaugural Safety and Security Professionals Day

A new tradition was officially added to the Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) calendar. Moving forward, the last Friday of February will be recognized as Safety and Security Professionals Day. To mark this year’s inaugural celebration, the district gathered at the Tanglewood Administration Building for a historic event honoring the men and women who keep our students and schools safe.

The event served as a powerful tribute to the more than 400 dedicated professionals who serve as the guardians of our schools and centers. From monitoring hallways with vigilance to being the first to arrive during a crisis, these men and women ensure that our schools remain safe and secured. 

Interim Superintendent Dr. Shawn Joseph opened the ceremony with a stirring reminder that education cannot happen without a foundation of safety. "We often describe our classrooms as sanctuaries of learning," Dr. Joseph remarked. "But sanctuaries do not sustain themselves. They are protected. They are guarded. They are made possible because of you.”

While the day celebrated all safety and security personnel, the spotlight shone brightest on three extraordinary professionals who represent the "bedrock" of the PGCPS security engine: Vicki Revell, Kevin Carter, and Horace Avent.

Combined, these three individuals have dedicated 108 years of service to the students and staff of Prince George’s County. Director of Safety and Security Services Gary Cunningham presented them with the PGCPS Medal of Honor, the district's highest commendation.

"In our line of work, we are the quiet professionals who keep watch by day and night," said Cunningham. "But today, that silence has turned to applause. You have witnessed this district grow, change, and thrive, and you have protected it every step of the way."

One of the most moving highlights of the day was the official launch of the "PGCPS Thank-An-Officer" Hotline, announced by Chief of Staff Dr. Deann Collins.

By calling 240-455-5208, community members can hear heartwarming messages of gratitude recorded directly by PGCPS students. "We wanted to ensure you hear directly from the people who truly appreciate you most: our students," Dr. Collins shared. "These are our smallest voices sharing very big messages of gratitude."

"We are deeply grateful to the men and women of our Safety and Security Services for working tirelessly to provide the safe and orderly environments that allow our scholars to flourish, " said Dr. Charoscar Coleman, Chief Operating Officer for PGCPS. “Our committed team secures our schools through a robust, layered approach—expanding camera coverage, incorporating metal detection devices at all high schools and select middle schools, and flexibly deploying personnel with ongoing training.”

Additional efforts include: one-touch door locks on all classrooms, vape detectors, clear backpacks, and integrating 'security by design,’ such as secure vestibules, into all new school modernizations. The district is also partnering with the Prince George’s Police Department and municipal agencies to inform traffic and pedestrian safety while aggressively pursuing State Grant opportunities to accelerate our goals.

“The data confirms that these strategic efforts, fueled by constant analysis, are measurably improving our school environments. For that, we are profoundly grateful—not only for the data-driven results but for the brave individuals who respond to emergencies at any hour, who head toward danger to protect others, and who build the strong relationships necessary for every student to feel truly seen, heard, and safe, added Coleman."

The celebration was bolstered by the generosity of local business partners including The Hotel at the University of Maryland, Safeway of Brandywine, and the Lucian Company  who stepped forward to honor our "resident superheroes."

“The Lucian family is pleased to support the men and women of PGCPS School Security who dedicate their lives to keeping our children safe and secure,” said Rob Lucian, Owner of The Lucian Company.

Watch Fox 5 coverage here.