HARRISBURG – The Pocono Mountain School District will receive at $25,000 grant through the Department of Education’s Safe Schools Targeted Grant program, according to local legislators.
The grant was authorized under Act 70 of 2013 to enhance violence prevention programs and emergency preparedness initiatives in schools. Locally, all members of the General Assembly representing parts of Pocono Mountain School District supported the legislation, which received unanimous support of the Senate and House of Representatives.
“Unfortunate acts of violence in our schools have caused fear in the classroom,” Sen. David G. Argall (R-29) said. “I’m pleased to see Pocono Mountain receive these much-needed funds. While there is no perfect solution to ending classroom violence, this program and funding are a step in the right direction.”
“I am delighted to see the Pennsylvania Department of Education award state funds to enhance student safety in our schools,” Sen. John Blake (D-22) said. “I commend local school districts, teachers, administrators and parents for their vigilant efforts to ensure the safety of our children as they learn and grow to be good citizens of Pennsylvania.”
“Anything that can help to ensure a safer learning environment for students, educators and staff in Luzerne and Monroe Counties is a good thing,” Rep. Mike Carroll (D-118) said.
“Schools should be a safe haven,” Rep. Mario Scavello (R-176) said. “Money spent in improving safety in our local school buildings is money well spent and I know that the Pocono Mountain School District will put this grant funding to good use.”
The award for Pocono Mountain School District is part of more than $2.6 million awarded across the state for these competitive grants. The maximum amount for the grant is $25,000. This is the second and final round of safety grants for the year.