Peoria Unified School District seeks grant for enhanced school safety measures

The Peoria Unified Governing Board convened on May 29, 2025, to discuss key initiatives aimed at enhancing school safety and reviewing fee structures for the upcoming school year. A significant focus of the meeting was the district's plan to apply for a grant from the U.S. Department of Justice to support school safety measures, including the presence of School Resource Officers (SROs).

During the meeting, board members expressed enthusiasm about the potential partnership with local law enforcement agencies, specifically the Peoria and Glendale Police Departments. The district aims to secure letters of partnership to strengthen its safety initiatives. Clerk Toby highlighted the importance of SROs, noting their role as trusted adults on campus who foster connections with students, which can lead to positive outcomes in school safety.

The board also discussed the implementation of new safety measures, including the use of real-time camera technology by SROs, which enhances their ability to respond quickly to incidents on campus. Members emphasized the importance of these officers not only as law enforcement but as integral parts of the school community who contribute to student wellness.

In addition to safety discussions, the board reviewed proposed fee structures for the 2025-2026 school year. The presentation included recommendations for course fees, extracurricular activities, and food services. Notably, there will be no increases in food service fees, and changes to high school parking fees were proposed to cover maintenance costs. The board also discussed new advertising opportunities to generate revenue for school activities, aiming to strengthen ties with the local business community.

The meeting concluded with a unanimous vote to proceed with the grant application for the COPS Office School Violence Prevention Program, reflecting the board's commitment to enhancing safety measures in Peoria Unified schools. The discussions underscored the district's proactive approach to ensuring a secure and supportive environment for students and staff.