Let’s give Greenville High School a hardy round of applause for winning a fourth consecutive Alabama Safe Schools Award of Excellence. The announcement came on Thursday from the Office of Attorney General Troy King.

“We are reminded of the need for continued vigilance, as we recall the alarming instances of recent violence in our nation’s schools,” said King. “While these events are deeply disturbing to us, I am reassured by the commitment exhibited by these schools in Alabama to keep our children safe in the face of the severe challenges we face today. In my own days as a young student, I remember the stress of trying to make good grades and of dealing with classes and classmates. Thankfully, we were spared the stress of shootings that killed and maimed students and teachers, and we did not have to worry about such horror happening at our schools. We must work together to do everything possible to protect our children from these dangers and fears.”

King praised Alabama’s schools, particularly the upcoming award recipients, proclaiming that their students “no longer have to worry about what your school will do. Your school is prepared, and good preparation leads to prevention.”

Many schools across the United States are plagued by gang violence and let’s not forget that school shootings have become more and more common in recent years.

Schools still remain one our most vulnerable institutions for the occurrence of random acts of senseless violence, but it is a secure thought to know the staff of Greenville High School – most especially School Resource Officer Malcom Owens – is constantly vigilant and on the lookout for signs of trouble.

Can violence erupt at GHS and other schools in the county? Most definitely. Will it?

We certainly hope not and realize that by receiving this recognition, Greenville High School and the Butler County School System is doing everything possible to ensure it does not.

Hurray again, GHS.