Nebraska schools are set to receive $10 million to improve safety and security infrastructure across public and private institutions
The money will help with projects like reinforcing doors and windows, plus adding cameras and better lighting. Lawmakers approved this funding through Legislative Bill 705, which passed unanimously in 2023.
This initiative comes after the tragic shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, where 19 kids and two teachers lost their lives. State Senator Lynne Walz, who pushed for this task force, emphasized the importance of improving security in schools.
Walz expressed her pride in the bipartisan effort to enhance student safety. She believes that protecting students and teachers is a shared priority. State Senator Jana Hughes also shared her excitement about the funding, especially for schools in her district.
The Nebraska Department of Education started accepting grant applications in February. They received 217 applications, totaling over $60 million in requests. The evaluation committee prioritized projects focused on prevention, which led to the allocation of $10 million.
The funds will be used for various safety measures, including communication systems, cameras, and secure entryways. The goal is to ensure that students feel safe while learning.
Almost 200,000 students will benefit from these grants, with a significant portion in urban areas. Public schools received the majority of the funding, which must be used by August 2025.
State Senator Dave Murman highlighted the need for stronger security measures in schools across Nebraska. He noted that the proposals from Walz and other lawmakers represent different strategies for keeping kids safe.
In addition to the funding, there’s also a statewide anonymous reporting system called Safe2HelpNE, aimed at reducing potential threats in schools. This system allows anyone to report concerns online or via phone.
Overall, this funding is a step towards making schools safer for everyone involved. It’s a much-needed response to the ongoing concerns about school safety in our communities.
