Indy Standard

Henry County schools have received over $241,000 for safety upgrades through the state's Secured School Safety Grant Program, supported by local legislators. This funding is part of Indiana's biennial budget passed in 2023, which allocated significant investments towards 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," said State Rep. Brad Barrett (R-Richmond). "These grants allow schools to implement better security, creating a safer environment for both students and staff."

The area schools receiving grants include:

- Blue River Valley Schools: $36,450

- C A Beard Memorial School Corp.: $76,000

- New Castle Community School Corp.: $77,760

- Shenandoah School Corp.: $26,730

- South Henry School Corp.: $24,624

State Rep. Cory Criswell (R-Middletown) highlighted that these funds can be used for various safety needs such as support for resource officers, equipment and technology enhancements, active-event warning systems, threat assessments, and student and parent support services programs.

"As a former educator, I know firsthand how important a safe learning environment is for our students," Criswell said. "This funding is crucial for improving school security and ensuring that our schools are places where education and safety go hand in hand."

State Rep. J.D. Prescott (R-Union City) noted that since the program's inception in 2013, Indiana has allocated $187 million for school safety matching grants.

"Schools across Indiana face their own safety challenges, and this grant program was created with that in mind," Prescott said. "Whether it’s for new technology or additional staff, these funds will make a meaningful difference."

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.