The Fulcrum Foundation is committed to ensuring that every child has access not only to an excellent Catholic education but to a safe and secure environment in which to learn and grow. In recent years, Fulcrum has significantly expanded its support of school safety initiatives, recognizing that a strong educational foundation must be built on student well-being. In the last eight years alone, Fulcrum has funded over $1.5 million in safety and security enhancements through grants to schools in Western Washington.
Many schools have conducted safety assessments with the assistance of local law enforcement or other trained professionals. Their recommendations have led to investments to strengthen campus safety. They have resulted in upgrades to physical facilities, improvements to emergency communication systems, installation of security cameras, reinforcement of entrances and exits, and enhancements to ensure outdoor areas are well-lit and secure.
“Safety is at the heart of our mission,” said Fulcrum Executive Director Vivian Shannon. “When families know their children are safe, students are free to thrive academically, socially, and spiritually. Our donors make these vital improvements possible.”
For many schools, these grants fill an urgent gap. The costs of modern security systems and facility upgrades are often beyond what individual schools can afford. Through the generosity of donors, Fulcrum wants to ensure that all Catholic schools, regardless of size or financial means, can create safe and welcoming environments for students and staff.
Investing in school safety aligns with Fulcrum’s deep commitment to the care of every child, teacher, and family. Fulcrum’s grants are strengthening schools today while building confidence and resilience for the future. As Fulcrum looks ahead, supporting school safety will remain a top priority. Safe campuses are the foundation on which Catholic education can continue to flourish, forming young people of faith, character, and academic excellence for generations to come.
Safety Enhancements in Action
This summer, St. Thomas More Parish School in Lynnwood completed a major safety enhancement thanks to Shea Family Charities in partnership with Fulcrum. Two previously open breezeways on campus were enclosed with secure doors, a project designed to strengthen the overall safety of students, staff, and visitors.
Principal Richard Hernandez expressed gratitude for the project, sharing:
“The safety of our students is always our top priority. The new doors have created a more secure and welcoming environment for learning. We are so thankful to our donors for making this possible and for their ongoing commitment to our school community.”
This improvement reflects Fulcrum’s continued investment in ensuring Catholic schools across Western Washington remain safe, strong, and sustainable for generations to come.
