STATEHOUSE (Sept. 23, 2025) – Elkhart County schools recently received more than $640,000 for safety upgrades through the state's Secured School Safety Grant Program supported by area lawmakers.
State Rep. David Abbott (R-Rome City) 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 school district faces its own safety challenges, and the Secured School Safety Grants address those needs," Abbott said. "It is my hope that this funding will help schools strengthen their safety plans and create a more secure environment for our students and staff."
Area schools receiving grants include:
State Rep. Joanna King (R-Middlebury) 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.
"Each school is different, so these matching grant dollars can be used in a variety of ways to help them make necessary security upgrades," King said. "Every time we invest in the safety of our schools, we create better learning environments for all."
State Rep. Doug Miller (R-Elkhart) said since the program began in 2013, Indiana has invested more than $214 million in school safety through state matching grants.
"This funding allows schools to take proactive measures to protect staff and students," Miller said. "With this money, local schools are able to make security upgrades where they see fit."
"Secured School Safety Grants help schools address varying security needs," said State Rep. Tim Wesco (R-Osceola). "Whether it be adding a school resource office or updating emergency alert systems, we want to help schools create a safe learning environment."
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. David Abbott (R-Rome City) represents House District 18,
which includes portions of Elkhart, Kosciusko, Noble and Whitley counties.
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State Rep. Joanna King (R-Middlebury) represents House District 49,
which includes a portion of Elkhart County.
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State Rep. Doug Miller (R-Elkhart) represents House District 48,
which includes a portion of Elkhart County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Tim Wesco (R-Osceola) represents House District 21,
which includes portions of Elkhart and St. Joseph counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
