How Federal Funds Can Secure School Districts

Schools that funded and implemented programs to increase the security of their students are far safer than those that have not. Urban minorities and rural schools with a low-income base continue to be the least prepared.

In part one of this two-part series, we spoke with Dr. Don Gemeinhardt (Dr. G.), Bluum Grants and Funding Advisor. Dr. G provided some expert insights on different funding sources.

As schools implement school-based intervention strategies, they need to ensure they are helping students resolve problems. Here are a few areas where school districts can make and maximize purchases with federal funds.

1. Professional development to build partnerships and foster healthy schools and communities

Educators should take advantage of training and professional development for staff to help deal with mental health problems, crisis identification and social and emotional learning (SEL). Keeping students engaged with online and classroom learning and providing STEM opportunities are other ways to foster healthy schools and communities.

2. Safeguard schools and communities with physical security

Administrators often overlook the importance of having robust onsite security systems. Safeguarding school assets with reliable security hardware and software is vital to optimize and get the most value from technology investments. Devices like CCTV cameras, panic buttons, or end-to-end surveillance systems work well to safeguard your most valuable resources – people and assets.

3. Create equity in the classroom by providing supplies

Purchase educational technology (hardware, software, connectivity, assistive technology, and adaptive equipment) for students served by the local educational agency (LEA), including low-income and IDEA. These devices assist students, educators, and other staff with remote or hybrid learning.

4. Promote safe and healthy practices for more productive learning and teaching

Improving ventilation systems, including windows or portable air purification systems, ensures healthy air. Educators can take advantage of supplies or equipment to implement public health protocols, including guidelines and recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for the reopening and operation of school facilities to effectively maintain the health and safety of students, educators, and other staff during the qualifying emergency.

5. Promote cybersecurity hygiene to protect data and digital assets

Digitally responsive educational organizations should define their cyber governance structures by selecting a partner with capabilities to pinpoint vulnerabilities, define actions to close security gaps and build resiliency to prevent the loss of instructional time and money. Here is how digital responsive educational organizations can protect themselves from attacks.

Bluum can guide your school through the funding process so your school community will be more prepared. For more information and guidance about how funding can improve your organization's security posture, please get in touch with our Bluum grant experts.