Board approves application for Department of Justice School Violence Prevention Program grant

Peoria Unified’s governing board on May 29 approved staff applying for the U.S. Department of Justice COPS Office School Violence Prevention Program (SVPP) grant, which offers awards up to $500,000 with a 36‑month performance period and a required local cash match of at least 25 percent.

Director of Safety/Operations (presenter) explained the grant’s eligible uses include security hardening (locks, access control, lighting), technology such as cameras and notification systems, and other evidence‑based school safety programs. The grant cycle for 2025 allocated roughly $73 million nationally and, if awarded, Peoria’s application would require local match funds and return to the board for acceptance. “If you are unified as elected for an award, we would return to the governing board for the acceptance of the grant,” the presenter said.

Public comment included one speaker who supported hardening measures (metal detectors, locks) but opposed increasing law enforcement presence in schools. Board members said the district should pursue technology and equipment recommended by campus safety teams and emphasized balancing physical‑security measures with student supports and wellness programs.

The board approved a motion to apply for the SVPP grant by a 5‑0 voice vote. Administration said the grants.gov and JustGrants application deadlines are June 18 and June 26 respectively, and that award announcements typically come in September with a performance start date of Oct. 1. The district has engaged a grant writer to meet the application timeline; any award would be brought back to the board for formal acceptance and to establish the required local match funding plan.