Massachusetts school administrators face a critical challenge: implementing essential security measures with limited resources. While numerous funding opportunities exist at both state and federal levels, navigating this complex landscape requires strategic knowledge and planning. This guide breaks down the key funding sources available to Massachusetts schools, providing practical insights on how to secure the financial support needed to create safer learning environments for students and staff.
The Massachusetts School Security Landscape
The imperative for robust school security in Massachusetts is supported by compelling data. With approximately 1,800 public schools serving over 900,000 students, ensuring safety has become an increasingly pressing concern.
In July 2023, the Healey-Driscoll Administration awarded nearly $3 million in federal grant funds to 42 Massachusetts school districts through the Safer Schools and Communities Initiative. These funds were earmarked for physical security enhancements, including security upgrades at building entrances and improvements to communication systems.
However, security needs often outpace available resources. The Massachusetts School Building Authority estimates that the average comprehensive security upgrade for a school building costs between $250,000 and $500,000. With nearly $145 million in security-related requests submitted in the past two years, the gap between need and funding remains substantial.
Read the Complete Guide: The Future of School Security in the Modern Era
Read the Complete Guide: The Future of School Security in the Modern EraState-Level Funding Opportunities
There are quite a few state specific opportunities for schools in Massachusetts.
Safe and Supportive Schools Grant Programs (Fund Codes 335 and 337)
These state-funded initiatives are designed to help districts create safe and supportive environments. For fiscal year 2024-2025, the competitive grant program (FC 335) provides up to $10,000 per school for action planning and up to $20,000 per district for implementation.
Schools that receive this funding can use it to convene a team, respond to the Safe and Supportive Schools Self-Reflection Tool, and finalize an action plan. The continuation grant (FC 337) helps support the implementation of school-wide action plans created by previous FC 335 grantees.
Applications typically open in the spring, with funds awarded for the following school year. Schools interested should contact the Student and Family Support unit at DESE.
Commonwealth Security Trust Fund
This fund provides grants specifically for security technology implementations, including video surveillance systems with intelligent capabilities. Grants range from $25,000 to $100,000 per district, with applications typically accepted in the fall.
The fund prioritizes projects that demonstrate a comprehensive approach to school safety, including integration of various security technologies and implementation of proactive threat detection systems.
Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) Accelerated Repair Program
The MSBA's Accelerated Repair Program offers funding that can be leveraged for security upgrades when combined with other building improvements. The program typically covers 35-80% of approved project costs, with applications accepted annually with deadlines usually in February.
Schools interested should visit the MSBA website for detailed information.
Federal Funding Streams
Stronger Connections Grant Program
Massachusetts received $15,074,006 through the Stronger Connections Grant Program, part of the Bipartisan Safety Communities Act. This funding supports schools in establishing safe learning environments through comprehensive safety initiatives.
Funding can be used for physical security enhancements, technology implementation for threat detection, and development of comprehensive safety plans. Massachusetts schools should monitor the DESE grants page for application periods.
COPS School Violence Prevention Program (SVPP)
This program provides direct funding to improve school security through evidence-based programs and technology. It specifically supports coordination with law enforcement, installation of deterrent measures, and technology for expedited notification during emergencies.
In recent funding cycles, Massachusetts schools received over $1.2 million through this program. Applications typically open in early spring, with award announcements in summer. Visit the COPS Office website for current information.
Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) STOP School Violence Program
This program funds initiatives to prevent violence in K-12 settings, including development of school threat assessment teams, implementation of anonymous reporting systems, and school safety technology.
Massachusetts schools have secured over $800,000 through this program in the past two years. Applications are typically accepted in spring, with funding decisions announced in late summer. Details are available on the BJA website.
Application Strategies and Best Practices
Before applying for funding, conduct a thorough security assessment to identify vulnerabilities, prioritize needs, and establish connections between proposed security measures and identified risks. The Massachusetts School Safety Alliance offers resources to help schools conduct these assessments.
Align Projects with Funding Priorities
Each grant program has specific focus areas. Review grant guidelines carefully and tailor your application to highlight aspects of your project that align with the funding priorities.
Build Collaborative Partnerships
Many grant programs favor collaborative approaches. Consider partnering with local law enforcement agencies, mental health providers, and community organizations to strengthen your application.
Demonstrate Sustainability
Include a clear plan for maintaining implemented security measures, including budget allocations for maintenance, staff training, and integration with existing security protocols.
Read the Case Study: How a Public High School Transformed School Security
Technology Considerations for Security Funding
Modern video intelligence systems transform existing camera infrastructure into proactive security tools that can detect potential weapons, identify fights as they begin, monitor for unauthorized access, and alert security personnel to emergencies.
When developing funding requests, emphasize how new technology will integrate with existing security infrastructure. Rather than replacing entire systems, consider proposals that leverage existing cameras but add intelligent monitoring capabilities.
Strong funding applications demonstrate awareness of privacy concerns and outline specific measures to ensure compliance with regulations, appropriate data retention policies, and transparent communication with students and parents.
Safer Massachusetts Schools Through Strategic Funding
By understanding available funding opportunities and approaching the application process strategically, administrators can secure resources needed to implement comprehensive security measures that protect their school communities.
At VOLT, we understand that every school has unique security needs. Our AI-powered video intelligence technology transforms existing camera systems into proactive security tools that can detect potential threats in real-time, allowing for immediate intervention.
Let's transform your security infrastructure today—because proactive protection saves lives. When safety is your priority, choose a partner who understands what's at stake. Connect with our team to learn how VOLT can help you maximize your security funding and create a safer learning environment.
