Martinsville City Public Schools and the Martinsville Police Department have collaborated to complete a division-wide camera system upgrade, enhancing safety measures across all schools in the district.
The final phase of the project focused on installing new cameras at Clearview Early Learning Center, made possible through $14,260 in funds from Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s Bold Blue Line Grant as well as asset forfeiture funds collected by the police department. The school district covered the $3,000 cost of installing the new equipment.
“School safety is a top priority for us,” said Martinsville Police Chief Robert Fincher. “We’re thrilled to assist in protecting our students through this partnership.”
TJ Slaughter, the district’s director of school safety and emergency management, added, “This completes our division-wide camera system upgrade. We’re grateful for the police department’s support in finishing this crucial project to keep our schools and students safe.”
The collaboration between MCPS and MPD extends beyond this newest initiative, with ongoing efforts to improve school security. While specific details of many efforts must remain confidential for security reasons, Chief Fincher noted that Martinsville’s school safety measures are “top-notch” and well ahead of many other districts.
This new camera system at Clearview will provide law enforcement officials with access during emergencies, further strengthening the city’s ability to respond to potential incidents. This newest project is just the latest example of the strong working relationship between the city’s schools and local law enforcement to ensure the safety of students and staff. MCPS will continue to lead the way as a model for school safety in Virginia.
