Allen County legislators: Local schools awarded state funding for safety improvements

STATEHOUSE (Sept. 24, 2025) – Allen County schools recently received more than $849,000 for safety upgrades through the state's Secured School Safety Grant Program supported by area lawmakers.

State Rep. Martin Carbaugh (R-Fort Wayne) said the funding is part of the state legislature's investment in school safety this year, which totaled $27 million in state matching grants across 494 schools statewide. Lawmakers also advanced legislation this year to move the Office of School Safety to the Department of Homeland Security, centralizing safety efforts and providing additional support and resources to schools.

"Every student deserves to feel safe at school, and every parent and teacher should have peace of mind," Carbaugh said. "These grants equip schools with the support they need to enhance safety and ensure a rapid response in any situation to protect Hoosier students."

Area schools receiving grants include:

• Bishop Dwenger High School, $23,125;
• Bishop Luers High School, $42,457;
• Blackhawk Christian Elementary School, $92,500;
• Central Lutheran School, $12,025;
• Concordia Lutheran High School, $16,963;
• East Allen County Schools, $92,500
• Fort Wayne Community Schools, $92,500;
• International Leadership Schools, $73,075;
• Southwest Allen County Schools, $92,500;
• Northwest Allen County Schools, $92,500;
• Saint Charles Borromeo School, $27,750;
• Saint Elizabeth Seton Catholic School, $84,558;
• Saint Rose of Lima School, $29,970;
• Saint Vincent DePaul School, $38,883;
• St. John the Baptist School (Fort Wayne), $19,787; and
• St. Joseph Hessen Cassel Catholic School, $18,500.

State Rep. Dave Heine (R-Fort Wayne) 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-parent support service programs.

"School safety looks different in every school district, and these grants are designed with that in mind," Heine said. "The funding empowers schools to build on their safety efforts and provide students with a more secure environment to learn and grow."

State Rep. Chris Judy (R-Fort Wayne) said since the program began in 2013, Indiana has invested more than $214 million in school safety through state matching grants.

"Ensuring the safety of students and staff is always a top priority," Judy said. "Secured School Safety Grants gives schools the resources to enhance security, respond to potential risks and cultivate a place where students can thrive academically and personally."

"Prioritizing safety is an investment in the wellbeing and future of Hoosier students," said State Rep. Bob Morris (R-Fort Wayne). "This funding provides school districts with the resources and training to strengthen security, allowing students to focus on their education and connect with peers."

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.

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State Rep. Martin Carbaugh (R-Fort Wayne) represents House
District 81, which includes a portion of Allen County.
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State Rep. Dave Heine (R-Fort Wayne) represents House
District 85, which includes a portion of Allen County.
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State Rep. Chris Judy (R-Fort Wayne) represents House District 83,
which includes portions of Allen and Whitley counties.
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State Rep. Bob Morris (R-Fort Wayne) represents House
District 84, which includes a portion of Allen County
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.