Indy Standard

Wayne County schools have received over $279,000 for safety upgrades through the state's Secured School Safety Grant Program, supported by State Representative Brad Barrett (R-Richmond).

Barrett stated that this funding is part of the state's biennial budget passed in 2023, which included significant investments in school safety. In total, 499 schools across Indiana's 92 counties were awarded $24 million in state matching grants.

"By providing schools with the funding to enhance their safety measures, we're helping ensure that learning environments remain secure and focused on education," Barrett said. "These grants allow schools to implement better security, creating a safer environment for both students and staff."

The area schools receiving grants include:

- Centerville-Abington Community Schools: $60,750

- Nettle Creek School Corp.: $48,600

- Northeastern Wayne Schools: $48,806

- Richmond Community Schools: $81,000

- Western Wayne Schools: $40,500

Awarded funds can be used for various safety needs such as support for resource officers, equipment and technology, active-event warning systems, threat assessments, and student and parent support services programs. Since its inception in 2013, Indiana has allocated $187 million for school safety matching grants.

For more information about the Secured School Safety Grant Program and Indiana's efforts to keep schools safe, visit the state's school safety hub at in.gov/schoolsafety.