Over the course of 2024, both Pennsylvania and Virginia approved grants totaling approximately $132 million for the purposes of school safety funding in hundreds of districts across both states.

Public school districts weren't the only recipients of the grant funding. Some of the funds have also been allocated for nonpublic schools, law enforcement agencies, and security vendors who may provide schools with products and services.

Funding school safety may sound like the type of effort everyone can get behind. However, it's important to consider how the way these funds are spent could have unintended consequences. Efforts meant to yield genuine benefits could result in outsized disciplinary actions against students.

Are you a student (or the parent of one) who's facing disciplinary action for a supposed infraction? If so, the LLF Law Firm's Student Defense Team can offer the unique help you need right now. Learn more about how we can defend your academic future by submitting your information through our online contact form or calling our offices at 888-535-3686 today.

School Security Uses for Grant Funding in Pennsylvania and Virginia

According to a statement from Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, “The resources secured in the 2024-25 bipartisan budget will [...] ensure that schools can upgrade technology and security measures to protect students, staff, and visitors.” Additionally, the funds are being used to provide students with better access to mental health services and support. This is important, as there is often a connection between mental health struggles and misconduct.

Schools using the funding for security purposes may do so in a variety of ways. Consider the following examples:

• Pennsylvania is now requiring all public schools to have at least one security officer on staff. School districts may use the funds to hire officers accordingly.
• Upon receiving authorization, some schools are now adopting policies restricting cell phone usage among students. To enforce these policies, they can use grant funds to purchase pouches for student devices.
• School districts may also use funds to purchase basic security technology and equipment. Examples include metal detectors, cameras, and other such surveillance tech. In addition, they may invest in common safety measures, such as risk assessments and diversion programs.

Pennsylvania schools received a total of about $120 million in grant funding in 2024. Virginia approved $12 million in similar funds for districts in its state.

Potential Drawbacks for Students

Increased security measures theoretically boost safety. However, there's also reason to believe they could result in more students being accused of violations they didn't actually commit. Or, such measures may result in some students being disciplined more harshly than others for the same violations.

For example, some studies and surveys indicate certain schools or districts are more likely to severely punish students of certain races. Increased security measures could thus trigger an increase in Title VI issues.

Those are just examples. The main point to keep in mind is that help is available if you're facing disciplinary action or similar consequences for a supposed violation of your school's rules. At the LLF Law Firm, our Student Defense Team can help you fight for your rights when this happens. Get started today by calling us at 888-535-3686 or submitting your information via our online form.