COCONINO COUNTY — The Coconino County Accommodation District has been awarded a $500,000 School Violence Prevention Program (SVPP) federal grant to enhance safety at Ponderosa High School in Flagstaff and Tse’ Yaato’ High School in Page.
The award is part of a $682,471 safety project, supported by a $182,471 district match, that will deliver modern, integrated security improvements. The project, “Safer Coconino County Accommodation Schools,” advances federal SVPP goals by addressing critical safety needs through evidence-based technologies and practices.
The Accommodation District serves students who face significant academic and personal challenges, including youth involved in the juvenile justice system and students experiencing trauma or instability. Many come from communities with high rates of poverty and half of all students live within the Navajo or Hopi tribal nations.
“Our students deserve learning environments that are safe and supportive,” said Superintendent Cheryl Mango-Paget. “This grant allows us to address long-standing security gaps with a comprehensive, sustainable plan that protects both students and staff.”
District leaders emphasize that safe, secure buildings are foundational to effective education. When students feel physically protected and supported, they are better able to focus, build relationships and engage meaningfully in learning. Modern security infrastructure also provides staff with the confidence and tools needed to respond quickly in emergencies, helping maintain a stable environment where academic and personal growth can occur.
School safety assessments conducted in 2024, in partnership with the Coconino County Sheriff’s Department and using National Institute of Justice School Safety Assessment tools, identified multiple vulnerabilities that this project will directly address.
Federal SVPP support will have a lasting impact on the district’s ability to provide safe, stable environments in which students can learn and thrive.
“This grant marks a major step forward for some of the most resilient youth in Coconino County,” Mango-Paget said. “We are grateful for this critical investment in their futures.”
For more information about the Coconino County Accommodation District visit coconino.az.gov/1813/Accommodation-District.