Richmond, Virginia, October 11, 2025
News Summary
The Virginia Department of Education has earmarked $12 million for School Security Equipment Grants to improve safety in 433 schools across the Commonwealth. The funds will enable schools to purchase vital security equipment, such as communication systems, access card ID systems, cameras, security vestibules, and bus-mounted cameras. The initiative prioritizes schools with higher offense rates, ensuring that all educational institutions can enhance their security measures and foster a safer environment for students and staff.
Richmond, Virginia – Virginia Department of Education Allocates $12 Million for School Security Equipment Grants
The Virginia Department of Education has announced the allocation of $12 million in School Security Equipment Grants to enhance safety measures in schools across the Commonwealth. A total of 433 schools will benefit from this funding, which aims to provide essential security equipment to bolster safety for students and educators.
Among the recipients, 25 schools in Southwest Virginia have been awarded funds. Specific counties benefiting from the grants include Dickenson, Lee, Smyth, Washington, Wise, and Bristol, VA.
The intention behind these grants is to allow schools to purchase various types of security equipment. Included in the approved purchases are:
- Communication systems
- Access card ID systems
- Cameras
- Security vestibules
- Bus mounted cameras
Funding decisions were based on an evaluation of specific needs, primarily focusing on schools with higher offense rates and identified gaps in existing security measures. Schools with limited local resources were also prioritized in the funding process, ensuring that all schools have access to necessary protective equipment.
The importance of safety and security in educational settings has been emphasized by Virginia Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security, Marcus Anderson. This initiative reflects a commitment to advancing prevention, preparedness, and protection measures across Virginia’s schools, fostering a safer learning environment.
This program operates in partnership with the Virginia Department of Education, the Department of Criminal Justice Services, and local school divisions, highlighting a collaborative approach to enhancing school security through focused funding and resource allocation.
Background Context
In recent years, concerns about school safety have prompted various state governments to increase funding for security measures in educational institutions. Events and trends over time have underscored the need for enhanced security systems that can adapt to evolving challenges within the educational landscape. The Virginia Department of Education’s allocation of $12 million for these grants is part of a broader initiative to improve school security statewide, ensuring that schools have the tools necessary to protect their students and staff effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much funding has been allocated for School Security Equipment Grants in Virginia?
The Virginia Department of Education announced $12 million in School Security Equipment Grants.
How many schools will receive the grants?
A total of 433 schools across the Commonwealth will receive the grants.
What types of security equipment can schools purchase with these grants?
Approved security equipment includes:
- Communication systems
- Access card ID systems
- Cameras
- Security vestibules
- Bus mounted cameras
Which counties in Southwest Virginia will receive funding?
Schools in Dickenson, Lee, Smyth, Washington, Wise counties, and schools in Bristol, VA will receive funds.
What factors influenced funding decisions for the grants?
Funding decisions were based on an evaluation of need, prioritizing schools with higher offense rates and identified equipment gaps, as well as schools with limited local resources.
Key Features of School Security Equipment Grants
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Funding Amount | $12 million allocated |
| Number of Schools Funded | 433 schools |
| Counties Benefiting | Dickenson, Lee, Smyth, Washington, Wise counties, and Bristol, VA |
| Types of Equipment | Communication systems, Access card ID systems, Cameras, Security vestibules, Bus mounted cameras |
| Funding Prioritization | Schools with higher offense rates and limited local resources |
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Additional Resources
- Super Talk 92.9
- Wikipedia: School Security
- WJHL News
- Google Search: Virginia School Security Grants
- WSLS
- Google Scholar: School Safety Measures
- WFXR TV
- Encyclopedia Britannica: School Safety
- WCYB
- Google News: School Security Grants Virginia
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