Teachers to Get Quick Emergency Help with New Tech

South Carolina might soon see a change in how schools handle emergencies. A new bill is making its way through the state legislature. If passed, it would require every school to have a mobile panic alert system. This system lets teachers quickly call for help with just a few clicks. The idea is to save precious seconds during critical moments. Some schools in South Carolina already use these systems. For example, every teacher in Richland School District Two has a small badge. This badge can alert administrators of an emergency in the classroom. If needed, it can also initiate a campus-wide lockdown. This system has proven useful in real-life situations. At Apalachee High School in Georgia, it helped save lives during a tragic shooting. A group of lawmakers from both political parties supports this bill. They believe it's crucial for schools to have quick and reliable safety measures. Rep. Doug Gilliam, one of the sponsors, emphasizes the importance of swift action in emergencies. However, there's a big concern: the bill doesn't include funding to help districts cover the costs. The price tag for these systems can be high, ranging from $90, 000 to $10 million for installation alone. Plus, there are annual maintenance fees to consider. Groups representing teachers, school administrators, and school boards back the policy. They recognize the value of these systems but worry about the financial burden. Some districts can afford it, but others might struggle. The General Assembly has set aside money for school safety upgrades in the past. But this funding is only for one-time purchases, not ongoing costs like maintenance. Lawmakers are aware of the funding issue. They plan to talk to their colleagues about securing money for this initiative. The goal is to keep everyone safe, but finding the right balance between safety and cost is key. If the bill becomes law, schools will need to have this equipment ready by July 2026. The legislation has already passed a House subcommittee. It still needs to go through more votes before it can reach the governor's desk. The success of this bill depends on addressing the funding gap. Without proper financial support, some schools might not be able to implement these life-saving systems. It's a critical issue that needs attention. The future of school safety in South Carolina could hinge on finding a solution.