HARRISBURG – Local legislators announced a $25,000 grant for Northampton Area School District through the Department of Education’s Safe Schools Targeted Grant program.
Authorized under Act 70 of 2013, the funding will enhance violence prevention programs and emergency preparedness initiatives in schools. Locally, all members of the General Assembly representing parts of Northampton Area School District supported the legislation, which received unanimous support of the Senate and House of Representatives.
“All random acts of violence cannot be prevented, but we can take measures to increase the safety and security of our students, teachers and school employees,” Sen. David G. Argall (R-29) said. “I’m pleased to see Northampton Area receive this grant award.”
“Children deserve to attend school each day in a protected environment where the focus is on their education and their future,” said Sen. Lisa Boscola (D-18). “I commend the district for taking these additional steps to make school safety a priority.”
“It is vital that the state legislature helps to provide resources to school districts so that they can adequately address current safety concerns and help prevent potential future school violence episodes,” Sen. Pat Browne (R-16) said. “These grants offer funding to allow school districts to take the necessary steps to ensure the safety of students, teachers, administrators and anyone else who works in our schools. Having the training and being prepared is critical in managing and defusing any school violence incidents.”
“School violence seems to be increasing each year and this funding will help mitigate the problem and better ensure the safety of students and staff,” Rep. Julie Harhart (R-183) said. “I congratulate Northampton Area School District on its commitment to addressing this issue and look forward to hearing the results of their initiatives.”
The award for Northampton Area 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.