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The Lee County School District is seeking more than $17 million in federal funds to enhance school safety measures.
This move comes amid a concerning rise in gunfire incidents on school grounds across the U.S., with 54 incidents reported this year resulting in 16 deaths and 44 injuries.
The district aims to use the funds for critical upgrades, including new intercom systems and secure entryways.
These improvements are part of a broader effort to ensure the safety of students and staff. While the district has already invested millions of its own dollars, it is now looking to the federal government for additional support.
Krissy Houlihan, the district’s government relations director, emphasized the importance of proactive measures.
“With increasing threats and incidents nationwide, we must be proactive rather than reactive in protecting our schools,” said Houlihan.
The district has requested $17 million in community project funding from Congress. This includes $7 million to modernize outdated intercom systems at 57 schools and $10.5 million to install vestibules at 65 campuses, creating buffer rooms between exterior and interior doors.
Many parents and grandparents, like Fort Myers grandmother Joan Burns, support the initiative.
“So I think the high school is working to get it more secure, but I think there’s always room for improvement,” said Burns. “I think the more you can add, the better. I think the barricades would be great.”
Burns recalled a time when schools had little to no security and expressed gratitude for the increased protections for today’s students.
“Back then, there was no security. You dropped him off at school, and he walked into the building, and that was it,” said Burns. “But with the mass shootings, I think even outside security would be best.”
The school district has already spent more than $43 million of its own funds on safety projects, demonstrating its commitment to student safety.
“Absolutely. I’m totally for federal funding,” said Burns. “Any kind of funding can help these schools all be safer.”
A final decision on the funding is expected in December. If approved, the funds would be allocated in early 2026 to begin the projects.
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