Shelby County schools receive state funding boost for safety upgrades

Thursday, September 19, 2024 at 2:49 PM

By Staff report

In all, 499 schools across Indiana's 92 counties received $24 million total in state matching grants.

Shelby County schools recently received more than $271,000 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.

Area schools receiving grants include:

Northwestern Consolidated School Corp., $68,850
Shelby Eastern Schools, $60,750
Shelbyville Central Schools, $81,000
Southwestern Consolidated Schools, $60,750.

State Rep. Robb Greene (R-Shelbyville) 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.
"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."
State Rep. Cory Criswell (R-Middletown) said Indiana has allocated $187 million for school safety matching grants since the program started in 2013.
"As a former educator, I know firsthand how important a safe learning environment is for our students," Criswell said. "This funding is crucial for improving school security and ensuring that our schools are places where education and safety go hand in hand."

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