Of all Indiana's traditional public school systems, 94 percent will receive handheld metal detectors to enhance school safety through a new program. The state will provide the devices free to the 369 systems that applied for them.
School systems requested the handheld metal detectors after Gov. Eric Holcomb announced the program earlier this month. In a statement Holcomb says he's pleased.
“This program is all about giving local school leaders one more resource at their disposal to include in their safety plans," Holcomb says.
The state reports 3,228 detectors will be delivered to schools as part of a comprehensive effort to increase safety.
The push comes after a student and teacher were injured in a Noblesville school shooting in May.
Schools should receive the devices in August. There will be another chance to apply for the detectors this fall. One handheld device is available for every 250 students.
A taskforce will present other recommendations to improve school safety next month.