(Richmond) — Several local schools are getting a share of $12 million in school security equipment grants from the Virginia Department of Education.
The money will be used for voice and video internal communication systems, mass notification systems, security card access systems, visitor ID badging systems, surveillance cameras, two-way radios, security vestibules, interior bus cameras and bus two-way radios.
“The equipment purchased with these grants will help ensure the safety of all students and staff in Virginia’s public schools,” said Superintendent of Public Instruction Lisa Coons. “Every child deserves a high-quality education experience, one where they can deeply focus on learning and growing the minute they step onto a school bus or pass through the doors of their school. These grants help create safe, supportive environments, both on school grounds and while traveling to and from school.”
School divisions competed for the grants, with each division eligible for up to $250,000. Priority was given to schools with relatively high numbers of offenses, those with equipment needs identified by a school security audit, and schools in divisions that are least able to afford security upgrades.
Danville is getting the highest award, 250-thousand dollars, which will pay for new equipment at Park Avenue and Woodberry Hills Elementary Schools. Pittsylvania County will get $171,109 that will be split up amongst most of their schools.
