School divisions in Henry County, Martinsville and Patrick County have been awarded a combined $355,981 in state grants to purchase security equipment and make security improvements at 10 local schools.
The Virginia Department of Education, in collaboration with the Department of Criminal Justice Services, announced the 2026-27 School Security Equipment Grant awards last week.
Henry County received $197,427 for security improvements at Axton Elementary, Meadow View Elementary and Sanville Elementary.
Martinsville City received $97,198 for Albert Harris Elementary, Martinsville Middle and Patrick Henry Elementary.
Patrick County received $61,356 for Blue Ridge Elementary, Patrick County High, Patrick Springs Primary and Stuart Elementary.
“School security is always top of mind for every superintendent, principal and parent across the Commonwealth, and last week demonstrated the importance of secure buildings,” said Jenna Conway, state superintendent of public instruction. “We’re pleased to provide them with the resources they need to keep their staff and students safe. These grants represent a shared investment in Virginia’s schools.”
“Every student deserves to learn in a school where they feel safe, supported and ready to succeed,” said Secretary of Education Dr. Jeffery Smith. “These investments give our local school divisions the resources to strengthen school security based on the needs of their individual communities. We are grateful for the partnership of school leaders across the Commonwealth who work every day to create safe and welcoming environments for Virginia’s students and educators.”
The School Security Equipment Grant program has been offered annually since 2013 under the School Security Equipment Grant Act. It has provided $126 million in investments to schools since its creation.
This year, grants totaled $12 million from the Virginia Public School Authority. Eligible school divisions could apply for funding for the 2026-27 school year between July 1 and Aug. 1.
School divisions were eligible to receive up to $250,000. Schools receiving grants must remain open for at least five more years.
The VDOE received applications from seven regional centers, the Virginia School for the Deaf and Blind and 770 schools from 124 of Virginia’s 132 school divisions.
Applications were reviewed and awarded on a competitive basis. Grants were awarded to 399 qualifying schools in 91 school divisions.
