Indy Standard

Schools in Vermillion and Parke counties have received over $203,400 for safety upgrades through the state's Secured School Safety Grant Program, supported by State Representative Alan Morrison (R-Brazil).

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

"Supporting school safety is not one-size-fits-all, and that is why these grants are so important," Morrison stated. "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."

The area schools receiving grants include:

- North Central Parke Community School Corp.: $48,600

- North Vermillion Community School Corp.: $40,500

- South Vermillion Community School Corp.: $65,610

- Southwest Parke Community School Corp.: $48,710

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.