Virginia diocese reasserts school safety protocols in response to Minneapolis shooting

The Diocese of Arlington, Virginia, issued a statement Sept. 2 outlining existing safety protocols in its Catholic schools and parishes, following the recent shooting at Annunciation Parish in Minneapolis.

“The recent tragic event that took place at Annunciation Parish and School in Minneapolis reminds us once again of the need for vigilance in our approach to the security of our diocesan parishes and schools,” the release stated.

All Arlington diocesan parishes and schools have complied with 38 specific security standards in recent years, the release noted. These standards include access control, badging, patrolling, perimeter security, response protocols, security audits, training, and vehicle access and monitoring, among others.

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Bishop Michael Burbidge has also directed diocesan pastors and school leaders to commit significant attention and resources to campus security in recent years, according to the diocese.

The diocese added that safety depends not only on infrastructure, but on active community engagement. 

“A shared commitment to safety and security from all in our parish and schools remains critical, even beyond cameras, alarms and secure entry ways,” the release read. “The challenges to safety and safety are dynamic and must always be met with alert and diligent watchfulness.”

The diocese also said its protocols are reviewed regularly in coordination with security experts and in compliance with state and local requirements. 

“The safety and security of all diocesan parishes and schools,” the diocese concluded, “remain of paramount importance.”

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