KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced on Tuesday, January 17 that 195 school districts, intermediate school districts, and public-school academies will get nearly $25 million to support the hiring of 195 school resources officers for the next three years.
Officials from the governor’s office say the program is set to improve safety and security for more than 334,000 students.
33 schools and districts spread out over 10 counties in Southwest Michigan will also to benefit from the funding to include both Comstock Public Schools and the Parchment School District in Kalamazoo County.
Others include four locations in Allegan County, one each in Barry and Branch Counties, and two for Calhoun, Cass, and St. Joseph Counties just to name a few.
The funds, which are administered by the Michigan State Police are slated to support salaries, benefits, and training for school resource officers.
“Every parent wants their kids to be safe at school,” said Whitmer. “These grants will help us hire almost 200 more School Resource Officers so we can make sure our children, teacher, and staff are safe at school. Let’s keep working together to make record investments in our students and improve their classroom experience, build up school infrastructure, hire excellent educators, and invest in their comprehensive well-being, from mental health to safety.”
“These grant awards will not only help to provide better safety in our school buildings by increasing the number of schools throughout the state with at least one SRO, but very importantly, by prioritizing smaller schools in more remote areas, we will reduce the time it takes for a police response in the event of an emergency,” said MSP Director Col. Joe Gasper.
A complete list of awards can be found at Office of School Safety (michigan.gov).
