Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost announced on October 27, 2025, that more than $9.01 million in grant funding is now available to help schools across the state strengthen safety measures for the 2026–27 academic year.
The initiative, approved by the 136th General Assembly through House Bill 96, allows districts to apply for grants that can be used for a variety of safety-related projects and programs.
“Safety isn’t optional –it’s essential,” Yost said. “This funding helps schools across Ohio take real steps to protect students and staff.”
What The School Safety Grant Covers
The program provides flexibility for school leaders to address their most urgent safety priorities. Approved uses include:
- Training and certification for school resource officers
- Active-shooter response training and related equipment
- Educational safety resources for students at all grade levels
- Mental-health training to identify and assist at-risk students
- Safety-related school supplies or equipment
- Security camera systems with real-time law-enforcement access
- Silent panic alarms and emergency alert systems
- AI-based gunshot or weapon-detection technology
- License-plate reader alerts for registered sex offenders
- Alerts for wanted or dangerous individuals
How Much Funding Is Available?
Every school district in Ohio is eligible to apply for a:
Formula-Based Grant: $2,500 or $4.50 per student, whichever is greater
Program-Based Grant: Up to $40,000 per district, regardless of size
Districts may apply for one or both grants, and awards will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis until the funds are depleted.
Technology’s Role in Modern School Safety
Many districts are considering technology-driven safety solutions that facilitate quicker detection, communication, and response during critical incidents as they assess how best to use these funds.
AI gun detection technology, a proactive line of defense that helps spot firearms before a single shot is fired, is one of the most revolutionary tools.
How Omnilert Helps Protect Schools with AI Gun Detection
Omnilert AI Gun Detection uses advanced AI to monitor existing security cameras and instantly identify the presence of a firearm. After verification, the system can:
- Instantaneously notify law enforcement and on-site security
- Automatically lock down buildings and secure entrances
- Send out emergency notifications to parents, staff, and students
- Provide real-time situational awareness through visual confirmation
Creating Safer Learning Environments
Schools now have even more opportunities to create safer, more resilient campuses thanks to the Ohio Attorney General’s new grant funding and cutting-edge safety technologies like Omnilert’s AI Gun Detection.
Learn how your school can qualify for grant funding and improve its emergency response with Omnilert’s AI Gun Detection.
