Indy Standard

Vigo County schools have recently been awarded over $120,000 for safety upgrades through the state's Secured School Safety Grant Program, with support from local legislators.

State Representative Bob Heaton (R-Terre Haute) stated that this funding is part of the biennial budget passed in 2023, which significantly invests 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."

The grants were distributed as follows:

- Gibault, Inc./Holy Cross School: $12,150

- Saint Patrick School: $27,799

- Vigo County School Corp.: $80,109

State Representative Bruce Borders (R-Jasonville) mentioned that these funds can be utilized 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.

"Every school faces different challenges when it comes to safety, and these grants recognize those differences," Borders said. "Whether it's enhancing communication systems or having a resource officer on campus, this funding helps schools tailor their safety measures to their specific needs."

State Representative Alan Morrison (R-Brazil) noted that Indiana has allocated $187 million for school safety matching grants since the program began 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.