New funds through HB 318 aims to increase safety in Akron-area schools
State Rep. Emilia Sykes (D-Akron) today announced the release of $177,716.05 in state funds to improve school safety in the 34th House District. Under House Bill (HB) 318, a bipartisan effort sparked by increased gun violence on school grounds, all of Ohio's public schools, private schools, and schools operated by county boards of developmental disabilities will receive additional funding to employ and develop standards for school resource officers.
In addition to the funding included under HB 318, the Ohio Attorney General’s office will provide active-shooter training curriculum to educators, as well as guidelines for emergency safety planning.
“It is impossible for students to grow and thrive if they feel under attack,” said Sykes. “By increasing school security measures and setting clear guidelines in place, I hope we can create an environment free from threat that gives students the ability to reach their fullest potential. This new funding is truly an investment for our future.”
The complete list of grant awardees can be found on the Ohio Attorney General's website. Attorney General DeWine mailed a letter to each school with instructions on how to access the funds for use between October 1, 2018, and June 30, 2019.