Governor Awards Grants to Alexandria Schools for Security Equipment

Gov. Terry McAuliffe Thursday awarded $6 million in School Security Equipment Grants to protect students and teachers in 100 school divisions and six regional educational programs including a few schools in Northern Virginia.

In Alexandria, $41,668 was awarded to:

• Charles Barrett Elementary, 22302
• Cora Kelly Magnet Elementary, 22305
• Jefferson-Houston Elementary, 22314
• John Adams Elementary, 22311
• William Ramsay Elementary, 22311

The grants will pay for video monitoring systems, metal detectors, classroom locks, electronic-access controls, visitor-identification systems, direct communications links between schools and law enforcement agencies, and other security upgrades in 373 schools and other buildings.

The criteria for making the awards — developed by the Virginia Department of Education and the state Department of Criminal Justice Services — gave priority to schools most in need of modern security equipment, schools with relatively high numbers of offenses, and schools with equipment needs identified by a school security audit.

“Investing in security improvement that will protect our children while they are in school is critical towards building a new Virginia economy where students can learn and succeed,” said Governor McAuliffe. “These grants will result in safer environments for teaching and learning for thousands of students and educators.”

PHOTO of Jefferson-Houston Elementary courtesy of ACPS