Ohio School Safety Grant Breakdown

Last week, Ohio opened two essential (and simple) safety grants for schools for the 2027-28 academic year. Most organizations are equipped to write these in-house, but as always, if you need support, please email Michele ([email protected])

Grant 1: Ohio Attorney General’s FY26 Formula Based School Safety Grant

• Deadline: May 28, 2027 

• Funding: $2,500 per organization or $4.50 per student, whichever amount is greater, until the funds are exhausted.

Grant 2: Ohio Attorney General’s FY27 Project-Based School Safety Grant

• Deadline: May 28, 2027 

• Funding: up to $40,000 per organization, regardless of the number of students in the district, until the funds are exhausted.

Funds will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, so prompt submissions are important.

Can eligible organizations and schools apply for both grants? Yes, you may apply for one or both grants.  

Eligibility: Public school districts, chartered nonpublic schools, educational service centers (ESCs), schools operated by County Boards of Developmental Disabilities administering special education services (must apply at the district level, not building level but can request funding for all schools), and STEM/STEAM schools. 

Use of Funds: The use of funding includes, but is not limited to, all of the following: 

1. School resource officer certification training

2. Active shooter and school safety training or equipment

3. Educational resources for any grade type

4. Training to identify and support students with mental health issues

5. School supplies or equipment related to school safety or for implementing the school’s safety plan

6. Any other training, supplies, services, or equipment related to school safety

• The list above is not exhaustive, meaning that if you have an expense with a reasonable connection to improving school safety or implementing the school’s safety plan, it may be eligible and receive funding. 

• Schools, educational service centers, and county boards must work with or contract with the county sheriff’s office or a local police department to develop programs and training related to 1, 2, 3, 5, and 6 above. 

• All questions regarding the grants should be sent to Mary Cannon ([email protected]).