DeKalb Schools Pursue Federal Grant to Upgrade Safety Equipment

DeKalb School District 428 is once again turning to a federal program for financial help to boost safety across its campuses. The district is applying for funding through the U.S. Department of Justice's School Violence Prevention Program, which was created after the tragic 2018 shooting at a high school in Parkland, Florida. This three-year grant aims to support schools in making their environments safer through better equipment and technology.

The district plans to use the money to install panic buttons and add more security cameras in different buildings. Emma Fiorini, the district's grants manager, explained that the main goal is to keep costs low for taxpayers. She noted that the district received the grant last year and believes it meets all the requirements to qualify again. Getting the funding would save taxpayers around $502,000, which could otherwise go toward upgrading outdated systems.

Matt McIntyre, the district's security manager, emphasized the importance of having consistent safety measures in every building. He pointed out that older cameras, some over 15 years old, don't work as well as newer ones. The average lifespan of the district's security cameras is between five and ten years, depending on the technology used. With this grant, the district hopes to make sure all buildings have up-to-date and reliable security systems.

District staff chose not to share exact numbers on how many panic buttons or cameras will be installed. However, they stressed that the funding would help create equity in safety across all locations. Fiorini remains confident the district qualifies, citing its low-income status and the high number of students on free and reduced lunch programs. These factors, along with the district's rural setting, align well with the grant's criteria.

By securing this federal support, DeKalb schools aim to maintain strong safety standards without placing a heavy burden on local taxpayers. The district continues to prioritize student and staff well-being through strategic investments in modern security infrastructure.