STATEHOUSE (Sept. 22, 2025) – St. Joseph County schools recently received more than $876,000 for safety upgrades through the state's Secured School Safety Grant Program supported by area lawmakers.
State Rep. Dale DeVon (R-Granger) 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.
"This funding allows local schools to build on their existing security measures to keep everyone safer," DeVon said. "We want staff and students to feel secure when school is in session."
More than 20 St. Joseph County schools received grants. A full list of recipients is available on the Indiana Department of Homeland Security's website at in.gov/dhs.
State Rep. Jake Teshka (R-North Liberty) 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.
"Indiana continues to prioritize school safety, partnering with local schools to make sure they are getting the resources they need to keep students safe," said Teshka, a member of the House Education Committee. "This program is a critical source of funding for schools to bolster security and support their staff, teachers and kids."
State Rep. Tim Wesco (R-Osceola) said since the program began in 2013, Indiana has invested more than $214 million in school safety through state matching grants.
"Secured School Safety Grants help schools address varying security needs," Wesco said. "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. Dale DeVon (R-Granger) represents House District 5,
which includes a portion of St. Joseph County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Jake Teshka (R-North Liberty) represents House District 7,
which includes portions of LaPorte, Marshall and St. Joseph counties.
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.
