Homer Central School District

At Homer Central School District, we are committed to creating and maintaining a school and work environment that is safe, respectful, and supportive for all staff, students, families, and visitors. A safe environment is essential for everyone to thrive academically, professionally, and personally. To strengthen that commitment, we have implemented a Workplace Violence Prevention (WVP) Program that aligns with New York State law and reflects our district’s core values of kindness, respect, belonging, and commitment.

About the Law

On September 6, 2023, Governor Kathy Hochul signed an expansion of the New York State Workplace Violence Prevention Act, originally enacted in 2006. This update now requires public school districts and BOCES to assess risks and take steps to reduce or prevent workplace violence, including incidents of verbal threats, harassment, intimidation, and physical aggression.

Previously, K–12 public schools were exempt from this law due to existing safety plan requirements. With this change, all school districts are now expected to develop a specific Workplace Violence Prevention Program that includes:

• Annual risk evaluations of the physical work environment
• Written procedures to prevent and respond to workplace violence
• Employee training
• Annual program review and updates

Our Approach at Homer Central School District:

We believe every employee has the right to feel safe and supported at work. Our Workplace Violence Prevention Program is designed to meet legal requirements and align with the caring, relationship-driven culture we value in Homer.

Key elements of our program include:

• Collaboration with input from union representatives, building leaders, and district staff
• Annual risk assessments of district facilities and working conditions
• Clear reporting procedures for concerns related to threats, harassment, or violence
• Training and awareness efforts to ensure all staff understand their rights, responsibilities, and available supports
• A commitment to equity and culturally responsive practices in all aspects of safety planning

Moving Forward Together:

This program reflects our shared responsibility to protect one another and uphold the values that define us as a district. At Homer Central School District, we are not only complying with the law, we are building a culture where every employee feels safe, heard, and valued.

If you have questions or need support related to workplace safety, please contact: