WASHINGTON, D.C. – Attorney General John Ashcroft today announced $9.8
million in grants to 220 municipalities to enhance school safety in 42 states.
The grants were awarded under the Department of Justice Office of Community
Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Secure Our Schools program, which provides
funds to improve security in schools and on school grounds.
The Secure Our Schools program will provide up to 50 percent of the total
cost for municipalities to install metal detectors, locks, lighting, and other
equipment to help deter crime and violence. The grants can also be used to pay
half of the cost of security assessments, security training, and other
measures that provide significant security improvements.
"Our schools should be places where students can learn without fear of
violence," said Attorney General Ashcroft. "Parents should not have
to worry about their child’s safety in the classroom. With these grants, we
are providing school districts and those who safeguard our children with
additional resources to help ensure that learning environments are safe and
secure."
"One of the critical challenges confronting America’s local
governments is establishing and maintaining safe schools in which students can
learn and develop," said COPS Director Carl R. Peed. "Today’s
grants will help municipal law enforcement agencies and school districts
implement much needed safety enhancements that contribute to a safe and secure
learning environment. We are pleased to help communities prevent and reduce
school-based crime and violence."
COPS supports innovative community policing initiatives, funds the purchase
of crime fighting technology, provides training and technical assistance
resources, and funds the hiring of local law enforcement officers. COPS also
provides school safety training and has published several technical assistance
guides to help law enforcement agencies effectively address specific school
and youth violence issues.
For additional information about COPS Secure Our Schools program and to
view a list of municipalities that received grants, please visit
www.cops.usdoj.gov.
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