Local Schools Receive Funding to Support School Safety Initiatives

More than $27.1 million will support school safety initiatives at 494 school districts across the state.

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INDIANAPOLIS - The Indiana Secured School Safety Board unanimously approved the distribution of more than $27.1 million to support school safety initiatives to 494 schools or school districts across the state.

To date, more than $214 million in state funding has been dedicated to the matching grant program since it was created in 2013, and the Board has approved 4,599 grant requests.

"School safety is a top priority for my administration. Every student deserves a good education, and that starts with feeling safe and secure," said Gov. Mike Braun. "That’s why Indiana continues to make unprecedented investments through the Secured School Safety Grant Program."

Locally, the following school corporations received funding: 

• Batesville Community School Corporation – $92,500
• Franklin County Community School Corporation – $92,500
• Jac-Cen-Del Community School Corporation – $46,250
• Milan Community Schools – $23,125
• Oldenburg Academy – $25,900
• South Ripley Community School Corporation – $66,600
• Southeastern Career Center – $46,250
• Sunman-Dearborn Community School Corporation – $92,500

Last year, 499 schools split an allocation of $24 million, of which $17 million was allocated to funding school resource officers.

“As a former school resource officer, I know first-hand the importance of the Secured School Safety Grants,” said Julie Q. Smith, director of the Office of School Safety. “Under Governor Braun's leadership, we are proud to be able to fund nearly $20 million of school resource officers across the state, amongst a number of other important projects that fortify our school buildings and enhance the security and safety of our students.”