Halloween may be more like Christmas for students and staff at Daphne and Spanish Fort high schools this year. In a remarkable show of support, Rep. Matt Simpson, R-Daphne, recently donated $100,000 to each campus, presenting the checks at Trojan and Toros home football games to enthusiastic cheers from students, faculty and parents.

“As a legislator, one of the most important things I can do is help fill a need in our community when I see one,” Simpson said. “Our students deserve the best education possible, and by securing these grant funds, I’m happy to play a small role in helping fund initiatives that keep our children safe and support programs that inspire, empower and prepare our students for bright futures who are waiting for them.”

At Daphne High School, the $100,000 grant will fund the School Safety Initiative, designed to increase campus security. Projects covered include completing security perimeter fencing, adding one-way reflective security coverings to main entrances and exits, purchasing a rapid response cart for school resource officers and nurses, installing additional security gates, and purchasing Triton ULTRA sensors to detect vaporization and prevention. loitering, aggression and vandalism.

“With this funding, we are able to accelerate the completion of our comprehensive school safety plan, significantly shortening the timeline for these essential security improvements,” said Daphne Senior Principal John Comer.

At Spanish Fort High School, the $100,000 grant will support the band program, which has expanded from 28 students to nearly 100 this year. Anticipating further growth as 8th grade band students join, the funds will go towards the purchase of instruments and uniforms.

“This support from Rep. Simpson makes it possible for us to nurture our students’ passion for music,” said Spanish Fort High School Principal Shannon Smith. “With this grant, we are investing not only in instruments and uniforms, but also in the creativity, discipline and confidence that music education fosters. This investment in the arts reinforces our school and community’s commitment to providing students with a well-rounded education.”

The donations come at a critical time, enhancing both safety measures and art — two areas that underscore the schools’ commitment to creating a safe and well-rounded environment for all students.