Crete-Monee School District 201-U has been awarded a $500,000 grant from the Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) School Violence Prevention Program, a U.S. Department of Justice subsidiary. This funding aims to enhance safety and security within schools and on school grounds through evidence-based programs and technology. Crete-Monee School District was one of only 203 recipients selected from 1,008 applicants nationwide.

Superintendent Dr. Kara Coglianese expressed her gratitude about securing the grant, stating, “The leadership within our district has made significant efforts to collaborate over the years with local law enforcement and community organizations, recognizing the vital role our schools play in the community.” Dr. Coglianese further emphasized, “Our partnerships with government agencies are collaborative and transparent, focused on problem-solving. This grant will allow us to serve our community better and address security needs.”

The COPS School Violence Prevention Program Grant will fund initiatives including:

• Upgrades to the current camera system with digital cameras and installation of new cameras as needed
• Shatter-resistant window film
• Upgrades to classroom door security for lower-grade levels
• Hand-held weapon detectors
• Camera Weapon Detection System

While Crete-Monee School District 201-U has implemented numerous safety measures to protect students, staff, and the community, outstanding issues remain. These funds will facilitate and address these issues to complete essential projects to enhance our schools' safety.

“We are excited to push our school district forward to another level with safety. These funds will significantly aid in completing important projects,” stated Robin Tobias, Safety and Security Director.

We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to our staff members Andrea Powell and Jason Okrasinski for leading the initiative and to Robin Tobias, Jamie Huisman, Vincente Castillo, and Carmen Thompson for their support and assistance with securing the grant. We also appreciate the letters of support from local municipalities and community organizations, including the Will County Sheriff’s Department, Village of Crete Police & Fire, Village of Crete President Michael Enhorn, University Park Police Department, Park Forest Police Department, Monee Police & Fire, Monee Mayor Dr. Therese M. Bogs, Illinois Senator Dick Durbin, First Baptist Church of University Park, School House Counseling Center of Chicago, Crete Area Chamber of Commerce, Crete-Monee 201-U Education Foundation, and Donzell Franklin at Our Kids Count.

Pictured are CM 201-U staff members from left to right: Jason Okrasinski, Assistant Superintendent of Business and Operations; Andrea Powell, Business Information Systems Auditor; Dr. Kara Coglianese, Superintendent of Schools; and Robin Tobias, Director of Safety and Security.