Ross, OH - Ross Local Schools is proud to announce that we have been awarded a total of $500,000 in funds from the Ohio Facilities Construction Commission and Governor Mike DeWine’s Safety Grant program. Each of the District’s 5 buildings will receive $100,000. These funds can only be used for specific physical security expenses such as security doors, cameras, radios and other upgraded items. It can’t be used for personnel expenses, such as wages or benefits, nor will it decrease the need for a levy. However, it does allow for needed upgrades and additional services that were previously thought to be unattainable.
“We are thrilled to have been awarded these funds. We live in a world of uncertainty, but this money will be used to do all we can to ensure a safe learning environment for our kids,” said Superintendent, Chad Konkle. “Safety is always our top priority. This has been a competitive process, and we are so glad to have finally been chosen.” This is the third round of grants offered by the state, and Ross was not chosen in the first two rounds, despite having tried.
While the district has tried their best to keep up with safety advances, their current funds can only stretch so far. “This is a big win for the district because there is no money in the general fund for these types of upgrades. In a time of financial crisis, we see this as a major opportunity,” said the district's Director of Personnel and Fiscal Services, Steve Castator.
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