The U.S. Department of Education recently announced nearly $1 billion worth of awards generated through the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA).
Keeping Schools Safe
Although grants totaling many billions of dollars have been funded in recent years, 1 in 4 U.S. public schools still lack classroom doors that can be locked from the inside, according to a survey conducted two years ago by the National Center on Education Statistics, a federal research office.
New funding, also in the form of grants, will soon be provided to states through the BSCA Stronger Connections grant program. Through the BSCA, state educational agencies (SEAs) will develop programs to provide students with safer and healthier learning environments.
Anderson Lock supports and encourages schools to adopt safety and security protocols that utilize best practices for door and hardware solutions.
- ANDERSON LOCK knows schools—we’ve installed 1,000’s of classroom security locks
- ANDERSON LOCK writes specifications—we follow DHI school security and safety policy principles*
- ANDERSON LOCK can connect you with experienced school security grant writers
Call us to schedule an estimator to specify classroom security locks, reinforced doors, shatter-resistant glass, and other security measures that will enhance safety for students, staff and visitors at public elementary and secondary school districts, community colleges and state universities in Illinois.
To date, no active shooter has breached a locked classroom door. Research supports DHI’s recommendation that schools should install door hardware that is code compliant and industry-tested.
US Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona
Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona sent a letter outlining three principles that state educational agencies are strongly encouraged to consider when designing a competitive grant competition and providing local education agencies with direction for how they use these funds:
1. Implementing comprehensive, evidence-based strategies that meet student social, emotional, and mental well-being needs; create positive, inclusive, and supportive school environments; and increase access to place-based interventions and services
2. Engaging students, families, educators, staff, and community organizations in the selection and implementation of strategies and interventions to create safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environments
3. Designing and implementing policies and practices that are responsive to underserved students, protect student rights, and demonstrate respect for student dignity and potential.
These three principles cover a broad range of programs, policies and services. Security door hardware is just one of the strategies that keep schools safe. Anderson Lock’s experience and expertise can help your school access government funding for dependable, long-lasting safe school solutions.
We encourage you to take the time to pursue the Stronger Connections grant program. For further information on how we can be of service to your school system, call us at 847-824-2800.