HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency’s (PCCD) School Safety and Security Committee recently approved the allocation of nearly $20 million in competitively awarded school safety grants. These funds, directed toward nonpublic schools, law enforcement agencies, and other eligible entities, mark the final funding from the $120 million school safety program established in the bipartisan 2024-25 state budget.
The grants aim to bolster security measures and address student mental health concerns in schools across the Commonwealth. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro emphasized the urgency of these efforts. “I’ve listened to our kids as they’ve told me about their mental health struggles – that’s why my Administration is getting real help to students all across Pennsylvania quickly,” Shapiro stated. “The resources secured in the 2024-25 bipartisan budget will give students better access to mental health supports and ensure that schools can upgrade technology and security measures to protect students, staff, and visitors.”
Of the $120 million in grants, $19.7 million was awarded under the Fiscal Year 2024-25 Competitive Targeted School Safety Grants Solicitation to 367 recipients. This funding supports initiatives aimed at preventing violence, enhancing security, and providing school security personnel services in both public and nonpublic schools. Beneficiaries include municipalities, law enforcement authorities, and approved security vendors.
An additional $100 million was distributed through the Noncompetitive School Safety & Mental Health Grants program, benefitting 779 public school entities such as districts, charter schools, intermediate units, and career and technical education centers. The grants addressed both physical safety enhancements and student behavioral health services.
Lt. Gov. Austin Davis, who chairs both the PCCD and its School Safety and Security Committee, reinforced the administration’s commitment to student safety. “Our kids can’t focus on learning if we aren’t meeting the basic need for safety within the walls of their schools and making sure students’ mental health needs are met,” Davis said. “This program is more than funding—it’s about investing in the well-being of our kids and giving peace of mind to their families and school staff who are dedicated to helping them learn and grow.”
Examples of grant applications include hiring school police officers and mental health counselors, as seen in Conemaugh Township, and safety infrastructure upgrades implemented by the Bellefonte Area School District. These focused investments underscore Pennsylvania’s commitment to fostering secure, supportive learning environments for students statewide.
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