A child's education is such an important part of their development. As they learn new skills and prepare for their future, these young Hoosiers are also making friends and memories that could last a lifetime. To keep the focus on learning and to protect students and staff while they're at school, Indiana continues to step up in a big way.
Our state offers schools the opportunity to apply Secured School Safety Grants toward improving security whether that's making physical building upgrades, employing a school resource officer or purchasing equipment. Since 2014, Hoosier schools, including many in our area, have received nearly $163 million in total matching grants through the Secured School Fund.
Recently, eight local schools received over $700,000 in grant funding, including:
These matching grants are a great tool for our local schools to use to meet their unique needs. During my freshman year as a legislator, I supported a new law increasing funding for this program and expanding how these grants can be used. Now, matching grants can also go toward upgrading technology for improved active alert systems, digital mapping of schools and efforts to increase coordination with local law enforcement.
When it comes to securing our schools, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer, but through the Secured Schools Safety Grant Program, local corporations have more options to best suit their needs. Parents can learn more about what Indiana is doing to strengthen school security by visiting the school safety hub at in.gov/schoolsafety. Schools can learn more about the grant program and how to apply for the next round of funding at in.gov/dhs. As your state representative, I'll continue to look for ways to support our students, families and schools, and safety is always top of mind.
-30-
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.
