School Emergency Response Mapping Fund
We wish to acknowledge the receipt of numerous requests for an extension of the grant application deadline. This extension would allow schools additional time to implement a policy and select a qualified vendor that meets the statutory requirements. Consequently, the application due date has been extended to January 31, 2025. The due date will be amended shortly in the Qualtrics application process.
- The School Emergency Response Mapping Fund, as per Neb. Rev. Stat. § 79-3111:
(1) The School Emergency Response Mapping Fund is created. The fund shall be administered by the State Department of Education and consist of any money transferred by the Legislature and any gifts, grants, or bequests. The department shall use the money in the fund for grants related to facilitating the implementation of mapping data in accordance with section 79-3110. Any funds available for investment shall be invested by the state investment officer pursuant to the Nebraska Capital Expansion Act and the Nebraska State Funds Investment Act.
(2) It is the intent of the Legislature to transfer five hundred twenty-five thousand dollars from the General Fund to the School Emergency Response Mapping Fund for fiscal year 2024-25 for the purpose of providing such grants.
To qualify for school emergency response mapping funding, a school board or a governing authority must first adopt a policy to provide mapping data in electronic or digital formats to public safety agencies for use in an emergency response. Schools must also select a vendor that follows The Nebraska Department of Education’s mapping standards. Both the policy creation and required standards ensure school mapping data is accurate and can be shared easily with public safety agencies, leading to efficient and effective emergency response.
This grant funding opportunity has $525,000 in available funding to bolster school security and increase situational awareness for first responders.
Additional information, including eligibility and application requirements, can be found here: NDE Mapping Grant Application. Applications are due by January 31, 2025.
For any questions or additional information, please get in touch with jay.martin@nebraska.gov