Nebraska schools now have access to $10 million in security funding. The Nebraska Department of Education recently distributed these funds to 122 public school districts and 43 private schools for critical security upgrades. Schools will use this money to strengthen doors and windows, install cameras, and improve lighting systems as part of a comprehensive approach to student safety.
Read on for intel on how Nebraska schools can access these resources.
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 EraNebraska has established multiple targeted programs to help schools improve security. According to the Nebraska Examiner, the recent $10 million distribution supports immediate infrastructure improvements across the state, focusing on the most critical needs first.
This funding originated from Legislative Bill 705, passed unanimously (47-0) in 2023 as part of a comprehensive education package. The bill incorporated recommendations from the state's School Safety Task Force, which formed after the tragic Uvalde, Texas, school shooting in May 2022.
The Nebraska Department of Education evaluated grant applications based on several criteria:
Applications for these funds significantly exceeded availability, with 217 applicants requesting $60.4 million—six times the available funding. This gap highlights the urgent need schools feel to enhance their security infrastructure.
Schools across Nebraska can tap into multiple funding streams that offer complementary support for different security needs. VOLT works with schools to maximize these opportunities by building integrated security systems that qualify for various funding programs.
Legislative Bill 705 Security Infrastructure Grants
The Nebraska Department of Education distributed $10 million for physical security improvements like door locks, camera systems, and building modifications.
Most funded projects focused on upgrading doors, locks, vestibules/entryways, and access control systems—elements identified as critical security priorities in the Sandy Hook Advisory Commission report.
School Emergency Response Mapping Fund
This program supports digital mapping of school facilities to aid emergency responders. Applications remain open until January 31, 2025.
VOLT's 3D digital mapping capabilities align perfectly with this initiative, helping schools qualify for this funding while enhancing emergency response capabilities.
Stronger Connections Grant Program
Nebraska received $4,833,025 through this federal program established by the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act.
Emotional and behavioral analytics complement these funds by helping schools identify potential issues before they escalate.
COPS School Violence Prevention Program (SVPP)
This federal program provides direct funding to improve school security through evidence-based safety programs and technology for coordinated emergency response.
Real-time security monitoring meets the program's technology requirements, making implementation a straightforward process.
Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) STOP School Violence Program
This initiative funds violence prevention in K-12 settings and supports efforts to reduce violent crime in and around schools.
Read the Case Study: How a Public High School Transformed School Security
Nebraska structures its security approach around four essential pillars. Schools need comprehensive security platforms supporting schools in all four critical areas.
The Nebraska Department of Education prioritized "prevention" projects when awarding funds, recognizing that proactive measures often yield the greatest safety benefits. This aligns with the Nebraska Safety and Security Standards, which provide comprehensive guidance on implementing these four pillars.
Nebraska continues to pass legislation that supports comprehensive school security. VOLT stays at the forefront of these developments to ensure our solutions remain compliant and effective.
LB 1339 (effective July 2024 for private schools, January 2025 for certain public schools) allows school boards to authorize select security personnel to carry firearms on school grounds. VOLT enhances this measure by providing these personnel with real-time threat information and precise location data.
The State Board of Education also approved a model firearms policy in consultation with the Nebraska State Patrol to guide implementation of this measure. VOLT incorporates these guidelines into our security protocols for schools that choose this option.
Nebraska schools that successfully secured funding demonstrated several key qualities in their applications that made them stand out. Understanding these success factors can help your school prepare stronger applications for future funding cycles.
As former State Sen. Lynne Walz, who championed the school safety legislation, noted: "The safety of our students is a bipartisan priority and something I am proud to have championed during my time in the Legislature."
VOLT maximizes the effectiveness of security investments through intelligent integration and proactive monitoring:
Schools using tech-based school security solutions can bank on better detection and response to security incidents before they escalate.
Nebraska provides multiple funding pathways for schools committed to enhancing security. VOLT helps schools navigate these options while implementing effective security solutions protecting students and staff.
Partner with us to maximize your security funding and create a safer environment for your school community. VOLT transforms existing cameras into intelligent guardians, monitoring 24/7 for medical emergencies, unauthorized access, and potential threats—because when it comes to school safety, every second matters.
When safety is your priority, choose a partner who understands what's at stake. Schedule a demo with VOLT today to learn how we can help your Nebraska school make the most of available funding while implementing security solutions that truly protect your students, staff, and community.