Lake Shore Central School District is one of at least 160 school districts and BOCES in New York State to receive the Utica National Insurance Group's "School Safety Excellence Award" for 2025 at the Titanium with Honors level.

The honor is presented annually and recognizes school districts' safety efforts as they work to help keep students, staff and visitors safe. Lake Shore CSD received its award at Utica National's 43rd school safety seminar, one of six such seminars the company hosts in the state.

Lake Shore CSD officials accepted a certificate to commemorate the district's safety efforts and a check for $500 for use as reimbursement for and/or in connection with the school safety program.

Utica National's School Safety Excellence Award Program has three levels - titanium, platinum, and gold - in which schools can earn a meritorious distinction by meeting specific criteria to enhance overall safety. Through the program, schools with their own transportation, schools with contract transportation, and BOCES are evaluated. Categories covered include bullying prevention programs, playground safety and other areas, which are measured using specific, quantifiable surveys.

"Safety and health concerns continue to be a priority in our school districts," explained Mark Angelucci, Senior Vice President and Head of Utica National's Specialty Lines. "Districts that go 'above and beyond' to provide a safe, healthy and focused culture for learning are to be applauded, and we're pleased to count Evans-Brant (Lake Shore) Central School District among them."