The Guadalupe Union School District will be improving safety and security measures at Kermit McKenzie Intermediate School (KMIS) and Mary Buren Elementary School, thanks to a $159,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Justice Office of Community Oriented Policing Services.

The grant will pay for a new front gate at Kermit McKenzie Intermediate School. The rest of the funds will be spread throughout the district to fund radios and a guest access system. Work is expected to begin during winter break.

“GUSD is very excited about the grant,” said Superintendent Emilio Handall. “These funds will significantly improve the safety for all students and staff.”

The district applied for the grant in June, and was one of 13 school districts in the state to receive the grant.