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Board authorizes MOU with Marion Police to apply for federal School Violence Prevention grant
Summary
The board approved a memorandum of understanding with the Marion Police Department to apply jointly for the U.S. Department of Justice COPS Office School Violence Prevention Program grant to purchase safety technology, visitor management, and additional cameras; the grant application had not been awarded at the time of the meeting.
The Marion City Schools Board approved a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Marion Police Department on June 16 to apply jointly for the U.S. Department of Justice COPS Office School Violence Prevention Program (SVPP) grant.
Superintendent Murphy described the items the grant would fund if awarded: the Synedegic safety platform, crisis alert badges, a visitor management system, digital building mapping to support reunification, and additional security cameras across district buildings. The board’s approval authorized the district to participate in the joint application; officials noted the grant had not yet been awarded.
Why it matters: If awarded, the grant would fund hardware and software intended to enhance building security and emergency response capability. The MOU outlines roles and responsibilities between the district and the police department in pursuing the federal funding and implementing grant activities.
What the board approved - Motion to approve the MOU between Marion City Schools and the Marion Police Department for the COPS Office School Violence Prevention grant application. The board voted by roll call and recorded unanimous approval (votes recorded as yes). The grant application and any subsequent procurement remain contingent on award and board approval of specific purchases.
Details and clarifications - The MOU formalizes collaboration for the application and lists proposed purchases: Synedegic safety platform, crisis alert badges, visitor management, digital building mapping, reunification support, and additional security cameras. - Board members and administrators said the police department’s grant writer is preparing the application; approval now authorizes the district to participate in the joint submission.
What’s next: If the grant is awarded, the board will consider specific procurements and contracts consistent with district procurement policy and the grant terms.
