Indy Standard

Clay Community Schools have received $81,000 for safety upgrades through the state's Secured School Safety Grant Program, supported by area lawmakers.

State Rep. Bob Heaton (R-Terre Haute) stated that the funding is part of the state's biennial budget passed in 2023, which made significant investments in school safety. In total, 499 schools across Indiana's 92 counties received $24 million in state matching grants.

"These grants are a critical investment in the safety of our students and teachers," Heaton said. "By providing schools with the means to enhance their safety measures, we're helping ensure that learning environments remain secure and focused on education."

State Rep. Alan Morrison (R-Brazil) mentioned that 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. Indiana has allocated $187 million for school safety matching grants since the program started in 2013.

"Supporting school safety is not one-size-fits-all, and that is why these grants are so important," Morrison said. "They allow schools to invest in the specific safety improvements that will make the biggest difference for their students and staff, from resource officers to cutting-edge technology enhancements."

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.