Ohio schools will receive more than $35 million in federal funding to help provide students with safer and more supportive learning environments.
According to a press release, this money is part of nearly $1 billion in funding from the U.S. Department of Education through the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA) that will be provided to state educational agencies (SEAs) in 56 U.S. states and territories to be used to develop state grant programs to provide students with safer and healthier learning environments.
As part of this package, Ohio SEAs will receive $35,078,494. Funding will be used for programs that will help meet the social, emotional, physical and mental health needs of Ohio students.
“We have years of evidence that demonstrate the value of building safe and supportive schools. These efforts improve academic achievement, promote emotional well-being, reduce disciplinary actions and increase positive behaviors,” U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona said, according to the press release. “Safe and supportive schools help our children and youth overcome trauma and provide a strong foundation of emotional and physical safety. These grants will provide real benefits to real students in real schools.”
The state will determine which local educational agencies (LEAs) will receive program funding. SEAs will follow three principles when considering when developing a grant competition and providing LEAs with direction for how they use these funds.
- Create positive, inclusive and supportive school environments and increase access to place-based interventions and services
- Engage students, families, educators, staff, and community organizations in the selection and implementation of strategies and interventions to create safe, inclusive and supportive learning environments
- Design and implement policies and practices that are responsive to underserved students, protect student rights and demonstrate respect for student dignity and potential.
Activities and programs must be allowable under section 4108 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act.
