Ohio Attorney General’s FY26 Formula Based School Safety Grant

The Ohio Attorney General’s School Safety Grant provides critical support to enhance safety and climate initiatives across Ohio's educational institutions. Administered by the Ohio Attorney General's Office in coordination with the Director of Education and Workforce and the Director of Behavioral Health, the grant is funded under appropriation item 055502. It aims to foster safe school environments by supporting training and resources that strengthen preparedness and response to potential safety threats. The grant prioritizes collaboration between schools and local law enforcement agencies to implement effective safety training and programs. Eligible recipients include a wide range of Ohio educational institutions: traditional public schools, community schools, STEM schools, chartered non-public schools, schools operated by county boards of developmental disabilities, and other qualifying school entities. Notably, awards must be requested at the district, board, or organizational level rather than by individual school buildings. However, awarded funds may be allocated to specific buildings as appropriate. To apply, organizations must use their district-level Information Retrieval Number (IRN) and can verify their IRN via the Ohio Educational Directory System. Grant funds may be used for a variety of safety-related initiatives. These include certification training for school resource officers, active shooter response training, school safety-related equipment, grade-level educational resources, and mental health support training. The scope also allows for the purchase of safety-related school supplies and services necessary to implement safety plans. Importantly, schools must coordinate with local law enforcement agencies—particularly for programs related to training, resources, and safety equipment. Applicants may begin submitting proposals starting October 27, 2025, with the application period closing on May 29, 2026. The project performance period runs from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026. Award amounts are determined based on a formula: each eligible organization will receive either $2,500 or $4.50 per student, whichever is greater, subject to fund availability. No matching funds are required to apply. Applicants or interested parties may direct questions to SchoolSafetyGrants@OhioAGO.gov. Evaluation of proposals is aligned with the legislative framework outlined in Amended Substitute House Bill 96, which governs allowable expenditures and the required collaboration between educational entities and law enforcement. While no pre-application or letter of intent is required, applicants should ensure their use of funds aligns with the grant’s allowable purposes. Notifications and disbursements will be managed by the Ohio Attorney General’s Office and may include payments made directly to law enforcement training organizations when applicable. This grant opportunity does not currently indicate recurring cycles. It is recommended that potential applicants monitor updates via the Ohio Grants Partnership website or by contacting the program email. Comprehensive guidance on eligibility and application steps is available through the Ohio Grants portal, with contact details for further assistance provided by both the Attorney General’s Office and the Ohio Grants Partnership team.