The Rockbridge County Sheriff’s Office, in collaboration with Rockbridge County Public Schools, has launched the “Be Safe Virginia” program in all county elementary schools.
“Be Safe Virginia” is an educational initiative for Pre-K through fifth-grade students designed to teach vital public safety topics in an age-appropriate way. Key themes include:
• Recognizing the roles of community helpers such as police officers, firefighters, and emergency responders.
• Staying safe during both inperson and online interactions.
• Understanding the impact of substance abuse and the importance of anti-bullying awareness.
As an early stepping-stone in a broader continuum of safety and civic education, the lessons are created by licensed teachers and early childhood specialists and align with the Virginia Standards of Learning (SOLs). In Rockbridge County, the curriculum will be delivered by the sheriff’s school resource deputies.
Dr. Phillip Thompson, superintendent for Rockbridge County Public Schools, said, “We are thrilled to have our school resource officers partnering with our youngest learners through the ‘Be Safe Virginia’ program. This initiative not only helps students build trust with our local law enforcement officers at an early age, but also provides them with lifelong safety skills. It’s an important investment in both their well-being and the strong community connections we value here in Rockbridge County. We are especially grateful to Sheriff Tony McFaddin for his leadership and commitment in making this program possible.”
McFaddin added, “The ‘Be Safe Virginia’ program is about more than just teaching lessons — it’s about building lasting relationships. By starting early with our youngest students, we are helping them understand that law enforcement is here to protect, support, and guide them. Our deputies look forward to being positive role models in the classroom while providing children with the safety skills they’ll carry with them for life. This is only the beginning of a long-term investment in safety education and trust-building that will benefit Rockbridge County for years to come.”
