Investment in School Safety Technology in Spartanburg County
In a move that has been lauded by parents and staff alike, schools within the Spartanburg School District One have enhanced safety measures through the introduction of new technology. Designed to increase school safety, the addition carries a hefty price tag of more than $400,000.
Eye-catching Technology Boosts Safety
A substantial grant from the South Carolina Department of Education has made this significant investment possible. Led by the Chief Safety Officer Jeff Harmon, the district now boasts 21 of the cutting-edge CEIA weapon-detecting devices.
These hi-tech detectors made their debut on August 12th and have since been stationed at Chapman and Landrum high schools. With the core objective of amplifying the safety measures in place, these impressive devices screen all entering students and staff members.
The powerful technology has been designed to identify and alert the presence of potential threats such as small-caliber handguns and explosives. Integral in maintaining a secure learning environment, the detectors act as an invaluable layer of safety for students and staff alike.
A considerable portion of students have expressed their appreciation for this measure. They acknowledge the contemporary climate they inhabit and understand the necessity for such precautionary initiatives.
While school authorities have not reported instances of weapon possession, preparation for unexpected scenarios is deemed crucial. The portable nature of the devices also allows them to be transferred between different campuses as and when necessary, ensuring optimal use.
Officer Kyle Rios, a school resource officer, highlighted the collective responsibility in ensuring safety, stressing, “If none of us are contributing to the safety, then we are not doing our job.“
Fostering Community Participation
Not only does this high-tech addition contribute to safety, but it also fosters community involvement. Between two to ten people, including in-town teachers and police officers, actively operate these devices daily, echoing the district’s maxim, to prevent incidents rather than merely reacting to them.
Reiterating that the goal is not merely to react to incidents, but to prevent them, Harmon explained, “the goal is not to counter incidents, but to prevent them.”
These measures mark a step forward in school safety, demonstrating that the district is ready to adopt necessary resources to safeguard their students. It is clear to see that the Spartanburg School District prioritizes creating an environment where students can feel safe and focus on their education above all else.
This story serves as a testament to the power of local communities, school staff, and law enforcement working together to ensure a safe learning environment for the leaders of tomorrow.
