STATEHOUSE (Sept. 19, 2024) – Johnson County schools recently received more than $397,300 for safety upgrades through the state's Secured School Safety Grant Program supported by area lawmakers.
State Rep. Michelle Davis (R-Whiteland), vice chair of the House Education Committee, 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.
"The Secured School Safety Grant is a tremendous resource for Indiana schools, providing funding to enhance security for staff and students alike," Davis said. "With these grants, schools can address their own safety needs, from upgrading technology to employing school resource officers. As a member of the House Education Committee, I'm excited to see a record number of schools receive awards."
"Effective school safety requires a combination of strong policies, well-trained personnel and the right technology," said State Rep. Craig Haggard (R-Mooresville). "This funding gives schools the flexibility to address their specific safety challenges and ensure students and staff are protected."
Area schools receiving grants include:
State Rep. Peggy Mayfield (R-Martinsville) 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.
"Supporting school safety means giving schools the resources they need to prepare for and respond to potential threats," Mayfield said. "These grants help schools implement the most effective safety measures, from new technology to additional training for staff and resource officers."
State Rep. Robb Greene (R-Shelbyville), said Indiana has allocated $187 million for school safety matching grants since the program started in 2013.
"One of the great things about these grants is they provide schools with a lot of flexibility," Greene said. "By utilizing this program, schools can look at their own security plans and use the money for areas that will best protect students and staff."
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. Michelle Davis (R-Whiteland) represents House District 58,
which includes a portion of Johnson County.
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State Rep. Robb Greene (R-Shelbyville) represents House District 47,
which includes portions of Johnson and Shelby counties.
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State Rep. Craig Haggard (R-Mooresville) represents House District 57,
which includes portions of Hendricks, Johnson and Morgan counties.
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State Rep. Peggy Mayfield (R-Martinsville) represents House District 60,
which includes portions of Johnson, Morgan and Monroe counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
