When seconds count, having the right security technology makes all the difference for Ohio schools. The 2025 funding environment presents unprecedented opportunities for educational institutions across the Buckeye State to enhance their security infrastructure without overwhelming operational budgets. From state-specific grants to federal programs, Ohio schools have multiple pathways to implement comprehensive security solutions that protect students and staff.
Ohio's School Security Funding Overview
Ohio has demonstrated a strong commitment to school safety through various funding initiatives designed to help educational institutions enhance their security measures. This commitment reflects growing recognition that modern security systems are essential for creating safe learning environments.
The Ohio School Safety Center (OSSC), established by Governor Mike DeWine in 2019, serves as the central hub for school safety resources and coordinates security funding programs across the state. According to the Ohio Department of Public Safety, schools with properly implemented security systems report significant improvements in emergency response times and reductions in security incidents.
In recent years, Ohio has allocated funds for school security enhancements through multiple programs, including the State of Ohio Security Grant (OSG), the Ohio Attorney General's School Safety Grant, and the Ohio Campus Safety Grant. These programs reflect Ohio's comprehensive approach to addressing security challenges in educational settings.
For 2025, Ohio schools can access various state and federal funding sources to implement modern security solutions, including AI-powered systems that provide real-time monitoring and threat detection. These funding options offer opportunities to transform existing security infrastructure into proactive protection systems that safeguard educational communities.
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 Era
State-Level Funding Opportunities in Ohio
Ohio offers several state-specific funding programs dedicated to enhancing school security, each with its focus and eligibility requirements.
State of Ohio Security Grant (OSG)
The State of Ohio Security Grant (OSG) program provides funding to eligible nonprofits, houses of worship, chartered nonpublic schools, and licensed preschools for security improvements that help prevent, prepare for, or respond to acts of terrorism. While the application period for SFY25 has closed, the Ohio Emergency Management Agency (EMA) typically announces the next funding cycle each year, making August 2025 the expected announcement date for the next round.
The OSG program has historically provided substantial support for security enhancements, with approximately $8.5 million available in previous funding cycles. Eligible expenses under this program include:
- Camera-based security systems and alarm systems
- Access control systems and entry management solutions
- Emergency and crisis communication systems
- Trauma and crisis response equipment
- Contracted security personnel (resource officers, special duty officers)
- Security training programs
To qualify for OSG funding, security improvements must address specific risks identified in a vulnerability assessment, be feasible and effective at reducing those risks, and be completed within an 18-month performance period. Schools applying for this grant should ensure their proposals align with the program's objective of enhancing protection against potential threats.
Ohio Attorney General's School Safety Grant
The Ohio Attorney General's School Safety Grant program represents another significant school funding opportunity. For 2024, Attorney General Dave Yost announced $6.7 million in safety grants for Ohio schools, with similar funding expected for 2025. This program funds public and private schools, charter schools, educational service centers, STEM schools, and schools operated by county boards of developmental disabilities.
Each school district is eligible for a grant of $2,500 or $4.50 per student, whichever amount is greater, until funds are exhausted. The program gives school leaders flexibility in determining how best to improve student safety, with funding available for:
- Certification training for school resource officers
- Active-shooter response training and equipment
- Educational resources for all grade levels
- Mental health identification and assistance training
- School safety supplies and equipment
- Any other training related to school safety
Applications for this grant are typically accepted through the Ohio Grants Portal, with prompt submission recommended as funds are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. For the 2025 funding cycle, schools should monitor the Attorney General's website for application announcements, expected in early 2025.
Ohio Campus Safety Grant
The Ohio Campus Safety Grant program, though primarily focused on higher education institutions, provides valuable insights into Ohio's broader commitment to educational security. In 2024, Governor DeWine announced funding for 28 colleges and universities to enhance campus safety, with similar initiatives expected for 2025.
For example, Ohio University received $196,665 to expand video surveillance on campus. This funding demonstrates the state's ongoing investment in security technology that provides comprehensive monitoring and improved emergency response capabilities.
To qualify for these grants, institutions must conduct a security and vulnerability assessment to identify specific areas needing safety enhancements. The Ohio School Safety Center reviews applications in consultation with the Ohio Department of Higher Education to ensure funds are allocated effectively.
Federal Funding for Ohio School Security
Beyond state-specific programs, Ohio schools can access several federal funding streams to support comprehensive security enhancements.
COPS School Violence Prevention Program (SVPP)
The COPS School Violence Prevention Program (SVPP) 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
Ohio schools have successfully leveraged this program for security enhancements in recent years. Applications typically open in early spring, with award announcements in summer. For 2025, schools should prepare applications demonstrating clear integration with local law enforcement and specific security improvement goals.
Read the Case Study: How a Public High School Transformed School Security
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 Ohio schools seeking to enhance their security measures. The program values technologies that provide early warning capabilities and enable rapid response when seconds matter most.
Homeland Security Grants
Department of Homeland Security grant programs can provide additional resources for school security enhancements, particularly for technologies that enable rapid emergency communication and response. These programs often prioritize solutions that provide real-time intelligence to law enforcement and first responders during critical incidents.
Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation Safety Grants
The Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation (BWC) offers safety grants that, while not specifically designed for school security, can support related initiatives that enhance workplace safety for school employees. As of August 2024, the BWC announced that due to overwhelming response, they would temporarily close applications on November 1, 2024, but would continue processing submitted applications until all available funds were awarded.
For 2025, schools should monitor the BWC website for updates on when grant opportunities will reopen. These grants can potentially support:
- School Safety and Security Grant (SSSG) for employers operating licensed preschool through 12th-grade educational facilities
- Safety Intervention Grants for equipment to reduce or eliminate workplace injuries and illnesses
- Workplace Wellness Grant Program for employee health and safety initiatives
These programs represent additional funding pathways schools can explore to supplement their security budgets. When applying for BWC grants, schools should emphasize how security enhancements contribute to overall workplace safety for educational staff.
Secure Ohio's Schools: Take the Next Step
Ohio's commitment to school safety shines through the multiple funding streams for security enhancements. From the State of Ohio Security Grant to the Attorney General's School Safety Grant program, schools have unprecedented opportunities to implement modern protection systems.
At VOLT, we understand the unique security challenges facing Ohio schools and the importance of maximizing available funding. Our AI-powered security systems provide real-time monitoring, threat detection, and emergency response coordination—all designed to work within your existing infrastructure and budget constraints.
Don't let limited resources compromise student safety. Partner with VOLT to transform your school's security approach and create a safer learning environment for your entire community.
