Alyssa’s Law, requiring Texas public schools to install panic alarms, was signed by Governor Abbott on June 13, 2023. Schools can apply for state grants to fund these systems, and Wahsega is available to assist with the implementation process.
What is Alyssa’s Law?
On June 13, 2023, Texas Governor Abbott signed Alyssa’s Law, which mandates all public schools to be equipped with panic alarms to use during emergencies such as school shootings.
This law is in memory of Alyssa Alhadeff, a 14-year-old student whose life was tragically taken during the 2018 mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. The law has already been implemented in Florida, New York, and New Jersey.
Panic alarm systems are designed to provide immediate alerts to authorities and first responders during school emergencies, thereby mitigating any further loss of life.
Alyssa’s Law Implementation in Texas
Under this law, all Texas public schools are required to install panic alarms in classrooms and other strategic locations throughout the campus. The school staff is also required to be trained on how to use these alarms effectively. The objective of Alyssa’s Law is to provide a rapid and efficient means for staff and students to notify authorities during an emergency, thereby reducing response times and potentially saving lives.
Funding for Alyssa’s Law through Texas School Safety Grants
On October 27, 2022, Texas state legislature announced $400 million in funding to TEA to “assist school districts in replacing or upgrading doors, windows, fencing, communications, and other safety measures.”
The deadline to apply for School Safety Standards Formula Grant is August 1, 2023.
How to Apply for 2022-2025 School Safety Standards Formula Grant
1. Check if your school is eligible and the amount allocated for your school on the TEA Entitlements page.
2. Complete the Applicant Designation (ADC) form. To access the ADC, log into TEAL and select eGrants as the application. Once in eGrants, click on Grants on the menu bar.
3. Access the sample application and guidelines for SPAT by visiting the TEA Grant Opportunities page. Search for 2022-2024 Silent Panic Alert Technology (SPAT) Grant Application.
4. Review ‘Applying for a Grant’ information from TEA.
Proven Track Record for School Safety
Wahsega has a proven track record of helping Texas school districts implement this technology:
Wahsega is Here to Help You
Wahsega can help with safety communication systems for your school. Your local Texas Solutions Advisor can help you navigate the local grant funding process.
We’re here to help.
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