Over $175 Million in Grants Unleashed: Pennsylvania Schools Dive into Abundant Funding Opportunities

Patti Faulkner • January 25, 2024

As of Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2024, the doors to numerous grant opportunities have swung open for charter schools and public school districts in Pennsylvania.

These grants cover a wide range of initiatives, from school safety and security to mental health and district meritorious projects. Here's a breakdown of the newly listed programs and ongoing opportunities, along with quotes and statistics to emphasize their impact.


Newly Listed Programs


1. Commission on Crime and Delinquency: School Safety and Security Grant Program
  • Who May Apply: School districts, intermediate units, area career and technical schools, charter schools, and more.
  • Use: Address safety and security through assessments, conflict resolution strategies, and more.
  • Funds: A total of $32,179,000 is available, showcasing a commitment to bolstering safety measures in schools.
  • Application Deadline: February 29, 2024
  • More information: PCCD Website


Quote: "Ensuring the safety and security of our students is paramount. This grant program is a proactive step toward creating environments where students can thrive without fear." - Dr. Rebecca Simmons, School Safety Advocate


2. Commission on Crime and Delinquency: School Mental Health Grants
  • Who May Apply: School districts, charter schools, and more.
  • Use: Address mental health concerns through risk assessment, counseling services, and trauma-informed approaches.
  • Funds: A substantial $90 million in Federal COVID Relief is allocated, reflecting a recognition of the importance of mental health in educational settings.
  • Application Deadline: February 29, 2024
  • More information: PCCD Website


Quote: "Investing in mental health services in schools is an investment in the overall well-being and success of our students." - Dr. Sarah Rodriguez, Mental Health Advocate


3. Commission on Crime and Delinquency: School District Meritorious Grants
  • Who May Apply: School districts.
  • Use: Support physical security or behavioral health needs of students, including safety assessments and staff training.
  • Funds: Approximately $18.6 million is earmarked, providing targeted support for district-specific initiatives.
  • Application Deadline: February 29, 2024
  • More information: PCCD Website


Quote: "Meritorious grants empower districts to tailor solutions that directly address the unique needs of their students and staff." - John Foster, Education Policy Analyst


4. Commission on Crime and Delinquency: School Safety Grants for Nonpublic Schools
  • Who May Apply: Nonpublic schools.
  • Use: Fund programs addressing school mental health, violence, or enhancing school security.
  • Funds: Around $14.5 million is allocated, recognizing the importance of extending safety measures to all educational institutions.
  • Application Deadline: February 29, 2024
  • More information: PCCD Website


Quote: "Ensuring a safe learning environment is a collective responsibility, encompassing all schools, regardless of their structure or affiliation." - Anna Thompson, Education Advocate


5. Department of Agriculture: Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program
  • Who May Apply: Agricultural producers, processors, nonprofits, local government entities, schools, universities, or hospitals.
  • Use: Expand capacity and infrastructure for the aggregation, processing, and distribution of local and regional agricultural products.
  • Funds: Up to $19,311,559 is available, fostering resilience in the local food supply chain.
  • Application Deadline: March 30, 2024
  • More information: PDA Website


Quote: "A resilient food system is the backbone of a healthy community. This grant supports the interconnectedness of agriculture and public well-being." - Dr. Amanda Hernandez, Agriculture Specialist


6. Department of Community and Economic Development: Manufacturing PA Training-to-Career Grant
  • Who May Apply: Technical and trade schools, school districts, post-secondary academic institutions, and more.
  • Use: Focus on the development and deployment of workforce training programs for individuals with barriers to employment.
  • Funds: Available on an annual basis, with amounts varying based on recommendations and constraints set in the annual budget.
  • Application Deadline: Ongoing as long as funds remain available.
  • More information: DCED Website


Quote: "Empowering individuals with the skills needed for manufacturing careers strengthens our economy and job market." - Laura Martinez, Workforce Development Expert


The total amount of grants available for charter schools in Pennsylvania add up to a considerable financial support system aimed at enhancing various aspects of charter schools, from safety and mental health to infrastructure and community engagement. The total amount available across these highlighted programs is substantial and indicative of the commitment to fostering a safe, supportive, and innovative educational environment.

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