Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost announced Monday that Ohio school leaders can apply for a share of the $9.01 million in grants for safety-related projects for the 2026-27 school year.

"Safety isn't optional -- it's essential," Yost said in a news release. "This funding helps schools across Ohio take real steps to protect students and staff."

The funding was approved by the 136th General Assembly as part of House Bill 96, and some of the potential uses of the grants include:

  • Certification training for school resource officers.
  • Active-shooter response training or equipment.
  • Educational resources for all grade levels.
  • Training to identify and assist students with mental-health issues.
  • School supplies or equipment related to safety or for implementing a school-safety plan.
  • Systems allowing immediate camera access to responding law enforcement.
  • Silent panic alarms.
  • Gunshot-detection technology.
  • License-plate reader alerts for vehicles belonging to registered sex offenders.
  • Alert systems warning of wanted dangerous individuals.
  • Any other training related to school safety.

Under the program, every school district is eligible to apply for:

  • A formula-based grant of $2,500 or $4.50 per student, whichever amount is greater, until the funds are exhausted.
  • A program-based grant of up to $40,000, regardless of the number of students in the district, until the funds are exhausted.

School districts may apply for one or both grants. The grants will be awarded and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, making prompt submission of applications important. The application deadline is May 29, 2026.