Ansonia schools will be receiving $372,674 from the state to bolster security within its buildings, state Rep. Linda Gentile announced Tuesday (Nov. 12).
The money comes from the school security grant program, part of the ​“Gun Violence Prevention and Children’s Safety Act” passed in the state after the Sandy Hook school shooting.
“Safety and security in our schools is a top priority,” Gentile said in a prepared statement. ​“When we created this funding mechanism, we knew local governments would need a hand financing security improvements to schools. This program ensures the schools are upgraded in a timely manner.”
Ansonia elected officials acknowledged the grant at a monthly Aldermen meeting Tuesday.
Derby schools previously received state money for security upgrades.
Eligible projects under the program include the installation of surveillance cameras, bullet proof glass, electric locks, buzzer and card entry systems, and panic alarms, according to Gentile’s statement.
“So many of our cities and towns have decided that security must be stepped up at their schools, and I believe state government has an obligation to assist them in doing that,” Lt. Governor Nancy Wyman said in a prepared statement. ​“This funding is an investment that will help protect our children and give them the safe learning environment they deserve.”
Derby received state funding previously during the first round of school security grants. Click here for more information.