Security Door

On Monday, Governor Mike Parson announced 169 school districts and charter schools have received grants from the newly created School Safety Grant Program. Bolivar Schools is receiving $299,880.

"Our efforts and commitment to school safety is an ongoing effort," said Dr. Richard Asbill, Superintendent of Bolivar Schools. "This grant allows us to take a progressive step forward in addressing district-wide safety needs in one focused effort.  Our community and parents expect and depend on us to provide a safe and secure experience for students and staff.  Our Board continues to support our security and safety efforts and values the priorities that this grant allows us to address.  We appreciate Governor Parson's support of public education and school safety needs."

We plan to use the funding towards security cameras, a bus monitoring system, building door systems, a visitor management system, window security, fencing, and emergency communication tools.

“Improving the safety and security of our schools is an issue we can all support, and these grants help ensure our schools remain safe environments for Missouri children to learn,” Governor Parson said. “While threats of violence are something we never want to see in our classrooms, we must be prepared and have proper resources and response plans in place.”

The $20 million grant was part of Governor Parson's Fiscal Year 2023 early supplemental budget request. Governor Parson's Fiscal Year 2024 budget proposal includes an additional $50 million for the program if approved by the General Assembly.

“Funding to support safety helps ensure schools remain among the safest places for our students,” Commissioner of Education Margie Vandeven said. “These grant funds to support the physical safety of schools are an important part of ensuring our students have a safe environment for learning and growing.”