Alabama School Security Funding

School security has become a focal point for Alabama policymakers, with significant developments emerging in recent months. In October 2024, the Alabama State Department of Education requested a major increase in school security funding in their Education Trust Fund budget request for fiscal year 2026. The requested amount of nearly $53 million represents an increase of approximately $51.4 million over the previous year's allocation.

This funding increase would support legislation sponsored by Sen. Arthur Orr, R-Decatur, aimed at enhancing school security statewide. The bill establishes several key initiatives:

• Requiring the State Board of Education to set criteria for school safety inspections
• Allowing the board to award grants to local school boards for security compliance
• Mandating local school boards to hire district safety coordinators
• Directing the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency to work with local school boards on school mapping projects

Senator Orr, who chairs the Senate Finance and Taxation Education Committee, emphasized the importance of a structured approach: "We'll be able to look at hardening our schools based on a – I'll call it an agnostic grading score – among the schools, and then funding based on need."

This strategic framework ensures that resources are allocated according to specific security needs rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach. As Orr noted, "All the needs are not the same," underscoring the importance of targeted security investments.

Read the Complete Guide: The Future of School Security in the Modern Era

State-Level Funding Opportunities

There are ways to fund security initiatives for Alabama schools directly through the state.

Alabama K-12 Capital Grant Program

In September 2023, Lieutenant Governor Will Ainsworth announced a one-time $179 million grant program for school safety improvements. The Alabama K-12 Capital Grant Program allows schools to apply for funding for projects that enhance school security and safety.

Key aspects of this program include:

• Funding for physical security improvements
• Support for security technology integration
• Resources for comprehensive safety planning and implementation

While the initial application deadline was October 20, 2023, this program demonstrates Alabama's commitment to school safety and may serve as a model for future funding initiatives.

SAFE Council Initiatives

Governor Kay Ivey's Securing Alabama's Facilities of Education (SAFE) Council has been instrumental in developing recommendations for school security enhancements. Established by Executive Order 713, the SAFE Council focuses on:

• Hardening school facilities
• Identifying potential threats
• Providing interventions for at-risk students

The SAFE Council's recommendations have led to several state-funded initiatives, including:

• Implementation of an evidence-based threat assessment model
• Development of a virtual threat reporting system
• Updated processes for reporting student incidents to the Alabama State Department of Education
• Mandated comprehensive school safety trainings and drills
• Creation of School Safety Training and Compliance Teams

These initiatives represent ongoing state investment in school security, with associated funding opportunities for local districts.

Legislative Security Grants

Alabama legislators frequently secure targeted grants for school security improvements in their districts. For example, in February 2025, Representative James Lomax secured a $10,000 grant for Huntsville City Schools to install security devices at Challenger Elementary School following a gun-related incident.

These legislative grants offer another potential funding avenue for schools with specific security needs. Administrators should maintain regular communication with their local representatives to identify such opportunities.

Federal Funding Streams

Let’s talk about funding opportunities at the federal level.

Stronger Connections Grant Program

Alabama received $15,404,231 through the Stronger Connections Grant Program (SCG), part of the Bipartisan Safety Communities Act. This federal funding supports schools in establishing safe learning environments through comprehensive safety initiatives.

The program allows for investments in:

• Physical security enhancements
• Mental health support services
• Training for school personnel
• Implementation of evidence-based security practices

Schools interested in accessing these funds should contact the Alabama State Department of Education for application guidelines and deadlines.

Read the Case Study: How a Public High School Transformed School Security

COPS School Violence Prevention Program (SVPP)

The COPS Office School Violence Prevention Program provides direct funding to improve school security through evidence-based programs and technology. This federal program specifically supports:

• Coordination with law enforcement agencies
• Training for local law enforcement officers
• Installation of deterrent measures
• Technology for expedited emergency notification
• Other measures that significantly improve security

Alabama schools have successfully leveraged this program for security enhancements in recent years. Applications typically open in early spring, with award announcements in summer.

Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) STOP School Violence Program

The BJA STOP School Violence Program funds initiatives to prevent violence in K-12 settings. Eligible activities include:

• Development of school threat assessment teams
• Implementation of anonymous reporting systems
• Coordination with local law enforcement
• School safety technology implementation
• Training for school personnel and students

This program represents another significant federal funding opportunity for Alabama schools seeking to enhance their security measures.

Technology Considerations for Alabama Schools

When developing funding requests for security technology, Alabama administrators should consider how modern solutions can provide comprehensive protection while maximizing the value of existing investments.

AI-Powered Video Intelligence

Traditional security camera systems serve primarily as passive recording devices. However, modern video intelligence systems transform existing cameras into proactive security tools that can:

• Detect potential weapons before they're used
• Identify fights in early stages
• Monitor for unauthorized access
• Alert security personnel to medical emergencies
• Track suspicious behavior throughout a facility

These AI-powered capabilities represent a significant advancement in school security technology, shifting from reactive to proactive protection. When applying for funding, emphasize how such systems can dramatically improve response times and potentially prevent incidents before they escalate.

Integration with Existing Infrastructure

Funding applications that demonstrate efficient use of resources often receive favorable consideration. Rather than requesting complete system replacements, consider proposals that enhance existing security infrastructure with intelligent capabilities.

This approach:

• Reduces overall project costs
• Demonstrates fiscal responsibility
• Shortens implementation timelines
• Minimizes disruption to school operations

Alabama schools can leverage the state's investment by seeking funding for technologies that integrate with this existing system.

Pay for School Security in Alabama

At VOLT, we understand the unique security challenges facing Alabama schools and offer AI-powered video intelligence solutions that integrate seamlessly with existing infrastructure. Our technology transforms standard security cameras into proactive threat detection systems that can identify potential security issues in real-time, allowing for immediate intervention.

When every second counts in an emergency situation, having the right technology in place can make all the difference. Partner with us to create a safer environment for your school community. Because in today's world, proactive protection saves lives.

For more information about VOLT's school security solutions or for assistance with security funding applications, visit volt.ai or contact our education security specialists today.