State Reps. Heaton, Morrison: Local schools receive state funding boost for safety upgrades

STATEHOUSE (Sept. 6, 2024) – Clay Community Schools received $81,000 for safety upgrades through the state's Secured School Safety Grant Program supported by area lawmakers.

State Rep. Bob Heaton (R-Terre Haute) said the funding is part of the state's biennial budget passed in 2023, which made significant investments in school safety. In all, 499 schools across Indiana's 92 counties received $24 million total in state matching grants.

"These grants are a critical investment in the safety of our students and teachers," Heaton said. "By providing schools with the means to enhance their safety measures, we're helping ensure that learning environments remain secure and focused on education."

State Rep. Alan Morrison (R-Brazil) said awarded funds can be used for a wide range of safety needs like support for resource officers, equipment and technology, active-event warning systems, threat assessments, and student and parent support services programs. Indiana has allocated $187 million for school safety matching grants since the program started in 2013.

"Supporting school safety is not one-size-fits-all, and that is why these grants are so important," Morrison said. "They allow schools to invest in the specific safety improvements that will make the biggest difference for their students and staff, from resource officers to cutting-edge technology enhancements."

To learn more about the Secured School Safety Grant Program and what Indiana's doing to keep schools safe, visit the state's school safety hub at in.gov/schoolsafety.