Eastpointe board unanimously accepts state 31A school safety funds

The Eastpointe Community Schools board voted unanimously to accept state 31A funds to support school safety measures.

Administrative staff presented a resolution asking the district to opt into the 31A program and noted the funding is intended for school safety and mental-health supports. "School safety is a priority for Eastpointe Community Schools," the administration said, recommending the board adopt the resolution so the district remains eligible for the funds.

Board members asked for legal clarifications about the 31A conditions. Administrative staff told trustees the loss of certain privileges would be limited to individuals directly involved in any incident under investigation and that litigation would not permanently strip the district of attorney-client privilege. The administration also said the district could opt in before the state deadline and later rescind the decision if court outcomes change.

Officials said the available funds amount to about $140 per student and can be used for items such as SRO compensation, upgraded cameras, metal detectors and expanded mental-health services. "If we vote yes today, it helps us stay in the running for the funds," one trustee said during the discussion.

A motion to adopt the resolution was moved and seconded; the board recorded a 7-0 vote in favor and carried the motion. The board was told it has until Dec. 30 to reverse an opt-in vote if the litigation landscape changes.

The acceptance keeps the district eligible for these targeted safety funds while trustees stressed continuing to monitor legal developments and preserve options for future action.