2026-2027 School Security Equipment Grants Program
Forecasted
2026-2027 School Security Equipment Grants Program supports Virginia public schools in buying and installing approved security equipment in buildings, on school sites, and on buses to improve student safety.
Funder: Virginia Department of Education
Due Dates (Anticipated): August 2027 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: $12 million in total funding; up to $250,000 per eligible school division each fiscal year
Summary: Competitive grants help Virginia public schools purchase and install approved security equipment for buildings, school sites, and buses.
Key Information: A local match of 25% of the grant amount is required, subject to a possible reduction or exemption.
Description
The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) administers this competitive program to improve the safety of students attending Virginia public schools. Funded through equipment notes issued by the Virginia Public School Authority, the grants offset local costs to purchase and install approved security equipment in school buildings, on school sites, and on school buses.
Allowable equipment includes communications and notification systems, access controls, surveillance cameras, security lighting and fencing, detection systems, classroom security hardware, and specified bus security devices. VDOE and the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services evaluate applications using criteria that prioritize schools with greater security needs, higher incident rates, needs identified by a security audit, and divisions less able to afford upgrades.
