Sen. Dan Laughlin (R-49) today announced that more than $528,000 in state funding has been awarded to nonpublic schools in Erie County through Pennsylvania’s Targeted School Safety for Nonpublic Schools Grant Program. The grants were approved by the School Safety and Security Committee and are designed to help schools improve security measures, prevent violence, and support the mental health and well-being of students.
“Every student deserves to learn in a safe and secure environment,” Laughlin said. “These grants provide critical resources that help schools strengthen security, enhance emergency preparedness, and support programs that protect the physical and mental well-being of our children. Investing in school safety is one of the most important responsibilities we have.”
The following Erie County schools received funding:
- Erie Catholic School System – Our Lady of Peace School: $75,000
- Erie Catholic School System – St. George School: $75,000
- Erie Catholic School System – St. James School: $75,000
- Erie Catholic School System – St. Jude School: $75,000
- Erie Catholic School System – St. Luke School: $75,000
- Erie Day School: $73,649
- Mercyhurst Preparatory School: $5,200
The Targeted School Safety for Nonpublic Schools Grant Program provides funding to nonpublic schools to address school violence prevention and school mental health initiatives. Funding may also be awarded to municipalities, law enforcement agencies, approved school security personnel, and third-party vendors that provide security services to public and nonpublic schools.
“Parents should have confidence that their children are safe when they walk through the school doors each day,” Laughlin said. “These investments help ensure schools have the tools and resources needed to respond to emerging safety challenges and create a secure learning environment for students, teachers, and staff.”
The grants are administered through Pennsylvania’s School Safety and Security Committee, which oversees programs aimed at improving school safety and supporting student well-being across the Commonwealth.
