State Senators Kevin Kelly (R-21) and Andres Ayala (D-23) in separate statements applauded the announcement that Stratford, as part of the Gun Violence Prevention and Children’s Safety Act, was recently awarded School Security Grants of $748,621
The funding will be used to reimburse the town for some of the costs associated with security infrastructure improvements at nine schools in Stratford made after the tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown last December.
“I’m happy to see that Stratford successfully pursued funds to enhance their security systems,” said Kelly. “When we send our children to school we need to know that the school is the safest learning environment that it can be. These funds take important steps toward making our schools safer and more secure.”
“A strong education is the foundation for a successful future, and no student or teacher should have to fear for their safety while working toward this important goal,” said Ayala. “I worked alongside my colleagues in the legislature to pass this historic, bipartisan law to improve the safety of all Connecticut residents. I am glad that students and Stratford will benefit from it.”
Along with the state funding the town of Stratford provided matching funds of $521,728 for school security. This is the second time the School Security Grant Program provided funds to Stratford. The town also received $135,334 from the state in September.
The School Security Grant Program is administered by the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection, the Department of Education, and the Department of Construction Services. The funding will go to schools with the most need i.e. — buildings with little or no existing security infrastructure located in school districts. The improvements can include:
• Development or improvement of security infrastructure
• School personnel training in the operation and maintenance of the new or improved security structure
• Purchase of portable entrance security devices, including metal detector wands, screening machines, and related training
• Installation of surveillance cameras
• Penetration resistant vestibules
• Ballistic glass
• Solid core doors
• Double-door access
• Computer-controlled electronic locks
• Entry door buzzer systems
• Scan card systems
• Panic alarms or other systems
One more additional round of funding is expected to be awarded in next year.