U.S. Representative Mike Ross (AR-04) was joined by U.S. Senators Blanche Lincoln and Mark Pryor in announcing today’s grants.

"Our schools should be a safe place for children to learn and this grant will help provide the safest learning environment possible, which is why I am proud to join in this announcement today that will benefit the schools and communities of Fouke and Monticello," Ross said.

The City of Monticello received $44,841 and will use the funds to employ a full-time school resource officer in the Monticello schools. The City of Fouke received $28,419 and will be using the funds to install a video digital surveillance camera system in the Fouke schools.

"It’s important that the federal government continue its work to ensure that our communities can provide a safe environment for students and teachers," Lincoln said. "I congratulate local leaders in Monticello and Fouke for utilizing COPS funding to better protect their schools."

"Students learn better in an environment where they feel safe, and I think our parents, teachers and schoolchildren would agree that our neighborhoods and schools are safer as a result of the COPS program," Pryor said. "I commend local officials for seeking this funding, and I will continue to fight for resources that enhance school safety and benefit Arkansas’ schools."

In addition to funding school safety projects, COPS supports innovative local community policing initiatives, funds the purchase of crime-fighting technology, provides training and technical assistance resources, and funds the hiring of local law enforcement officers.

For additional information about COPS Secure Our Schools program, or to learn which law enforcement agencies received grants, visit the COPS website at www.cops.usdoj.gov.

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