Several federal government and Illinois state programs provide grants for schools to upgrade their security systems. Even a small grant can ease the pressure on your school’s budget, which is likely already pretty tight. While we’re not school funding experts, we can point you to resources that can help you.
Today’s School Security Reality
Unpleasant as it can be to think about, today’s schools have to face the reality that theft and violent crimes can and do happen in our schools.
Research shows that the majority of these incidents occur outside school buildings, such as in parking lots, and many stem from disputes that escalate. This insight helps schools and communities focus on prevention strategies, conflict resolution, and campus security measures that continue to make schools safer every year.
School Security That Works
As with any security system, schools should use a multi-layered approach that combines proper technology, clear and evidence-based protocols, and training personnel in both.
The American Federation of Teachers, the National Education Association, and Everytown for Gun Safety recommend the following school-based interventions:
- Foster a safe and trusting school climate
- Build a culture of secure gun storage
- Create trauma-informed crisis intervention practices
- Implement access control measures and door locks
- Establish trauma-informed emergency planning
The important thing to note is that, while upgrading your access control system is crucial to your overall security, it is only one piece of a fully effective plan. That said, upgrading to the right system for your school or district can be costly.
Let’s look at resources that may be of help to you.
Federal Grants for School Security Upgrades
The federal government has several grant opportunities established through various laws and departments. Some are recurring, while others run out after the initial disbursement of funds, so you need to read the fine print for each.
COPS School Violence Prevention Program (SVPP)
Community Oriented Policing Services, a division of the U.S. Department of Justice, offers 3-year, 75%-funding grants for school safety measures, including coordination with law enforcement and deterrent measures and technology.
Bureau of Justice Assistance STOP School Violence Program
This grant primarily supports school wellness and violence prevention initiatives, which target the safe and trusting school climate goal. It can also be used for certain violence prevention and reporting technologies.
The BJA has paused this program as it reviews new guidance from recent Executive Orders.
FEMA Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP)
The NSGP funds physical security enhancements and activities, including facility “hardening,” to organizations at high risk of terrorist attack. The grant aims to help nonprofit organizations align with state and local preparedness measures.
FEMA Homeland Security Grant Program
These grants help organizations prevent, protect against, mitigate, and respond to security incidents such as terrorist attacks. The grants specifically support implementing the National Preparedness System.
For a searchable, up-to-date list of federal grants, visit SchoolSafety.gov’s Grants Finder Tool. Assistance in discovering and applying for grants is available through the Greenlights Grant Initiative.
Illinois State Grants for School Security Upgrades
The State of Illinois does not have an extensive grant program for school security, but there are options. Again, be sure to read the details for each carefully.
Not-for-Profit Security Grant Program (NSGP-IL)
Issued by the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS), these grants can be applied toward purchasing and installing security equipment and other hardening measures. Your school must be a 501(c)3 to apply.
School and Campus Safety Security Grant Program
These grants are not always available, but in the past they have funded physical security upgrades including reinforced doors, shatterproof glass, and security systems.
Illinois Homeland Security Grant Program
Similar to the federal program, these grants support efforts to prevent and respond to terrorism and other catastrophic events. They can be used for equipment, administration, and training.
U.S. DHS Nonprofit Security Grant Program National Security Supplemental
This is an extension of the federal program mentioned above, but it can only be applied for by the state administrative agency (SAA). Schools and other organizations are considered “subapplicants.”
Grant Application Tips
You may want to seek the help of a professional grant writer, but there are ways to improve the chances of your application’s success.
- Conduct a comprehensive security assessment and get stakeholder buy-in before beginning your application.
- Create a clear and compelling narrative describing and justifying your needs.
- Be as detailed as possible about budgets and timelines.
- Include all requested and relevant supporting documentation, including letters of community support.
- Double check that your application is complete, and submit it on time.
As part of your application, you might include what security professionals you intend to use, some baseline security metrics, evaluation and reporting procedures, training and maintenance protocols, and a vision for future upgrades.
Creating a secure school environment requires thoughtfulness and a holistic approach, but you don’t have to manage it all on your own as a school or even a school district. State and federal programs are there to help, so don’t hesitate to take advantage if you can.
And when it comes to physical security, Anderson Lock has your back with an extensive range of school security solutions. To learn more from a school security hardware expert, contact us today.
FAQ: Federal and Illinois School Security Grants
What school security upgrades can grants typically pay for?
Many school security grants can help fund physical security improvements like access control systems, upgraded door locks, reinforced doors, visitor management support, and other building “hardening” measures. Funding rules vary by program, so it’s important to confirm what technologies and installation costs are eligible before you apply.
Are there federal grants specifically for K-12 school safety upgrades?
Yes. Federal programs may support school safety planning and security improvements, including technology and coordination with local law enforcement. Some programs run annually while others may pause or change based on federal guidance, so always verify the latest program status before building your application.
What is the COPS School Violence Prevention Program and what does it cover?
The COPS School Violence Prevention Program (SVPP) is a federal grant opportunity that can support school safety measures and deterrent technologies. It is often used for security-related improvements that strengthen prevention and response capabilities on campus.
What is the STOP School Violence Program and is it available right now?
The Bureau of Justice Assistance STOP School Violence Program has supported prevention and reporting initiatives tied to school wellness and violence prevention. Program availability can change, and if it is paused or under review, schools should monitor official updates and consider alternate funding sources while preparing their security plan.
Where can schools find an up-to-date list of federal school security grants?
A reliable starting point is the Grants Finder Tool on SchoolSafety.gov, which helps schools search current federal opportunities. Schools can also explore application support resources when available to help identify eligible programs and strengthen submissions.
Does Illinois offer school security grants?
Illinois has grant options that may help schools improve physical security, though availability and eligibility requirements vary. Some programs may be limited, competitive, or not offered every year, so it’s important to review current announcements and deadlines.
Can Illinois nonprofits apply for security grants for schools?
Some Illinois security grant programs are designed for eligible nonprofits, which may include schools with 501(c)(3) status. These grants can support security equipment purchases and certain facility hardening measures, depending on program requirements.
What’s the best first step before applying for a school security grant?
Start with a comprehensive security assessment and stakeholder input. A documented assessment helps justify your needs, define priorities, and align your project scope with what grant programs typically fund.
What should a strong school security grant application include?
Strong applications usually include a clear narrative of the security need, a detailed budget and timeline, and all required documentation. Letters of support, baseline metrics, and a plan for training, maintenance, and evaluation can also improve credibility.
Is upgrading access control enough to fully secure a school?
Access control is important, but it’s only one layer. The most effective approach combines the right hardware and technology with evidence-based protocols, training, and a school climate strategy that supports prevention and rapid response.
How can Anderson Lock support school security upgrades funded by grants?
Anderson Lock helps schools plan and implement physical security improvements, including access control, door hardware, and secured openings. If you’re pursuing grant funding, our team can help you align hardware choices with real-world school needs and installation requirements.