(NASHVILLE) — State Representative Andrew Farmer (R-Sevierville) today announced more than $567,000 in funding has been allocated to Jefferson and Sevier Counties for the implementation of additional solutions that improve school safety for students in District 17.
The monies are a portion of approximately $35 million in budget funding — $25 million in one-time funding and $10 million in recurring grants — approved as part of Republican-led efforts during the 2018 legislative session to enhance protections for the future leaders of our state.
Dollar amounts were awarded based upon each district’s relative share of the Basic Education Program (BEP) — the formula through which state education dollars are generated and distributed to our schools.
Specifically, Jefferson County will receive a total of $264,980 ($75,710 in recurring funds, $189,270 in non-recurring monies) for safety enhancements related to vehicle control, surveillance, and classroom security — areas identified during a recently conducted school security review and assessment of facilities in the county.
Additionally, $302,640 ($86,470 in recurring funding, $216,170 in non-recurring dollars) has been allocated to Sevier County for improvements in surveillance, emergency planning, and training at their local academic institutions.
“I am pleased that our communities will receive this important funding, and I want to recognize our local school officials for their partnership with the state and members of the local law enforcement community during their thoughtful review, assessment, and application for these resources,” said Chairman Farmer. “Our children are our future; we must ensure safe environments for them and their teachers so they can focus all of their efforts and energy on learning. I was honored to fight for these important groups by supporting recommendations made by members of the working group on school safety, which resulted in this vital funding. I will continue to prioritize the well-being of our students, educators, and school staff members in the years ahead.”
As part of the application process, school leaders partnered with the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security, the Department of Education, and local law enforcement to complete assessments of current safety measures in place at area academic institutions.
All 147 school districts in Tennessee received a portion of school safety funding. For more information, please clicking here.
Andrew Farmer serves as the Chairman of the House Civil Justice Committee. He is also a member of the House Civil Justice Subcommittee, House Criminal Justice Committee and House Calendar & Rules Committee. Farmer lives in Sevierville and represents House District 17, which includes part of Jefferson and Sevier Counties. He can be reached by email at:[email protected] or by calling (615) 741-4419.