Pasadena Independent School District was awarded a Readiness and Emergency Management for Schools grant from the U. S. Department of Education for $543,349 – one of only 91 given nationwide. 

The grant will allow Pasadena ISD to implement an Internet-based crisis management system to provide first responders – including the Pasadena ISD Police Department, CenterPoint Energy, City of South Houston EMS Department, South Houston Police Department, Pasadena Police Department, South Houston Volunteer Fire Department, East Texas Medical Center – EMS, Mental Health Mental Retardation Authority of Harris County, City of Pasadena Office of Emergency Management, American Red Cross, and the Pasadena Fire Marshal – immediate access to campus-specific emergency procedure information. 

“We are excited about the opportunities that this grant gives us,” said Tom Swan, executive director of special projects for Pasadena ISD. “Unfortunately, the challenges that school districts face are changing rapidly and we must meet them to ensure the safety of our students – which is always our first concern. We are grateful for support from Senator John Cornyn and Congressman Nick Lampson who understand the need for emergency readiness and communication with first responders and parents.”

This funding will support Pasadena ISD’s efforts to increase student and staff safety, meet State Bill 11 requirements, and support first responders in responding to Pasadena ISD crisis.  It will also facilitate communication to parents and community members in times of crisis through the use of varied communication tools.

“We understand that parents get information from many different sources so we will need to use every source available to keep them informed about the safety and security of their children,” Swan said. He further explained that this grant will also provide emergency kits for every Pasadena ISD classroom. “Every classroom needs certain supplies in situations that may include tornadoes, fire, or evacuations. We want to provide our staff members with supplies and training so that they are able to help students during any situation.”