Safe Environment

Safe Environment Training & Recertification 

As Christian adults, we have a moral and legal responsibility and are entrusted by God with the spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being of minors and vulnerable adults. As they participate in activities within or sponsored by our Diocese, it is our responsibility and commitment to provide an environment which is safe and nurturing. (Mission Statement, Diocese of Dallas Safe Environment Program) 

The safety of our students, staff, volunteers, and visitors is a critical priority for us. Our goal is to foster ongoing awareness of our surroundings and provide a safe and secure environment for everyone in our school community. All employees, volunteers and partners must be cleared through our St. Rita Virtus Safe Environment Process.  

The Diocese of Dallas utilizes the Virtus Safe Environment platform. Please click HERE to download the Virtus registration instructions. The Virtus page for new account setup can be found HERE, and the login page for current users can be found HERE.  

Virtus accounts feature several components: 

• Screening Form: Required for initial application. 

• Reference Checks: Required for initial application. References must be individuals you have known for at least two years and who are not related to you.

• Criminal History & Criminal History Re-Checks: Required for initial application and conducted automatically every 2 years for active, compliant users.

• Personal Interview: Required for initial application. 

• Training: Required for initial application then renewed annually.  

All Virtus requirements must be completed before individuals can work or volunteer on our campus. 

Individuals are urged to report incidents of abuse or suspicions of sexual misconduct or sexual harassment. In an emergency situation, please contact local law enforcement authorities, usually by calling 911. Situations involving abuse of minors should always first be reported to civil authorities at the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services or by telephone at 1-800-252-5400 or txabusehotline.org. If the allegation involves a priest, deacon, or employee of a parish or the Diocese, in addition to contacting appropriate civil authorities, please also notify the Diocese of Dallas Victim Assistance Coordinator, Brenda Martinez, via email (reportabuse@cathdal.org), phone (214-379-2812), or this online FORM.  

We appreciate the cooperation of all parents, volunteers, and community members in supporting our commitment to providing a secure and nurturing environment for all members of the St. Rita family. If you have any questions about our Safe Environment Program, please contact Barb Louviere, Community Engagement Coordinator & Safe Environment Coordinator at blouviere@strita.net or 972-239-3203.