Rochester Schools receives safety grant

Rochester Community Schools will undertake more than $800,000 in school safety projects under a state grant program that reimburses 75 percent of costs, the Michigan State Police announced on Wednesday, October 31.

The grants are intended to allow for the purchase of equipment and/or technology to improve safety and security of school buildings, students and staff. The funds are in addition to $6 million the district has already spent on safety and security through a 2015 bond issue, district spokeswoman Lori Grein said.

"The district is responsible for a 25 percent cash match of the total project, and we'll be reimbursed for 75 percent of the total project cost, up to $828,164," Grein said of the grant.

Grein was unable to immediately comment on specific projects included in the grant application, nor highlights of work associated with the 2015 bond dedicated for safety and technology.

The Rochester Community Schools district is one of 114 public school districts that will receive about $25 million in safety grants. More than $69 million in requests were included in 407 applications to the state. Those applications were reviewed by a committee that included representatives from the state police department, the Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police, the Michigan Sheriff's Association, Michigan Department of Education, Michigan Association of Non-Public Schools, school security personnel and the Executive Office of the Governor.

"These grants are part of the proactive approach the state is taking to help prevent tragedies in our schools and provide the safe learning environment that our kids need and deserve," Gov. Rick Snyder said. "A multifaceted approach is necessary to keep our schools safe and these grants are a component of the comprehensive effort to keep Michigan school children safe."