INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (WOWO): The application period for the second round of Secured School Safety Grants is now open and runs through Monday, March 10, 2014.

The Secured School Safety Grant program is a state grant fund that provides matching grants to school corporations, charter schools, or a coalition of school corporations and/or charter schools. These organizations can use grant funds to employ a school resource officer, conduct a threat assessment, and/or purchase equipment to restrict access to the school or expedite the notification of first responders.

“School safety is a top priority in Indiana,” said Governor Mike Pence. “The Secured School Safety Grant provides schools statewide with the resources to help keep schools a safe place to foster learning and growth.”

Entities with an average daily membership of at least 1,000 students can apply for grants up to $50,000 per year. Those with an average daily membership of less than 1,000 students can apply for grants up to $35,000.

Last year, more than $9 million was awarded to school corporations, charter schools, and coalitions across the state.

For more information, visit http://www.in.gov/dhs/securedschoolsafety.htm.