STATEHOUSE (Sept. 18, 2024) – Bartholomew County schools recently received more than $251,000 for safety upgrades through the state's Secured School Safety Grant Program supported by area lawmakers.
State Rep. Jennifer Meltzer (R-Shelbyville) 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.
"When it comes to our students, safety is our top priority," Meltzer said. "Thanks to this state matching grant opportunity, local schools can step up their security efforts, and our teachers, staff and students can keep their focus on education."
Area schools receiving grants include:
State Rep. Ryan Lauer (R-Columbus) said 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.
"Every parent trusts their child will be safe when they go to school, and through these grants, Indiana and local schools are working together to ensure security is the top priority," Lauer said. "I look forward to seeing how different schools utilize this funding to benefit our students and staff."
State Rep. Jim Lucas (R-Seymour) said Indiana has allocated $187 million for school safety matching grants since the program started in 2013.
"These grants are a great tool because schools can focus on identifying and addressing their unique security needs," Lucas said. "Whether it's hiring a new resource officer or implementing more safety features, I look forward to seeing our local schools, teachers and students benefit."
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. Ryan Lauer (R-Columbus) represents House District 59,
which includes a portion of Bartholomew County.
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State Rep. Jim Lucas (R-Seymour) represents House District 69,
which includes portions of Bartholomew, Jackson, Scott and Washington counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Jennifer Meltzer (R-Shelbyville) represents House District 73,
which includes portions of Bartholomew, Decatur, Jennings and Shelby counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
