Buckeye Reporter

Ohio schools have the opportunity to apply for a portion of nearly $11 million in safety grants, according to an announcement made by Attorney General Dave Yost. The funding, part of House Bill 33 approved by the 135th General Assembly, is available for various safety enhancements during the current academic year.

Attorney General Yost emphasized the importance of a secure learning environment, stating, "A secure learning environment is paramount. These grants give schools resources they need to protect our children."

The grant funding aims to offer school leaders flexibility in improving student safety. It can be used for certification training for school resource officers, active-shooter response training or equipment, educational resources across all grade levels, and training for identifying and assisting students with mental-health issues. Additionally, funds may be allocated for safety-related school supplies or equipment, systems allowing immediate camera access to law enforcement officers responding to incidents, silent panic alarms, gunshot-detection technology, license-plate reader alerts for vehicles registered to sex offenders, alert systems warning about wanted dangerous individuals, and other related training.

Schools can apply for both a traditional per-pupil-funded grant and a larger project-based grant. Every district is eligible until funds are depleted:

- A formula-based grant of $2,500 or $4.50 per student—whichever amount is greater.

- A project-based grant of up to $40,000 per district regardless of student numbers.

Grants will be awarded on a first-come-first-served basis; therefore prompt application submission is crucial. Applications will not be accepted after May 30, 2025.

For further inquiries regarding the school-safety grants program: Email contact information provided.