he state of Georgia has passed legislation requiring all public schools to implement weapon detection systems for students entering campus.
According to WTVC-TV, Dade County Schools officials say similar technology is already in place in their district. The system operates through security cameras developed by Avigilon and was funded locally through e-SPLOST funds.
Superintendent Josh Ingle told WTVC the detection system has been installed in strategic locations throughout the district and is programmed to alert school personnel and school resource officers when a potential threat is identified.
Walker County Schools Superintendent Damon Raines said he is encouraged by grant opportunities designed to help districts cover the cost of the required technology.
State Representative Mike Cameron, who represents portions of both counties, said he voted in favor of allocating $50,000 to help schools purchase the equipment. He said the funding would provide parents with an added layer of peace of mind.
Georgia Association of Educators President Lisa Morgan, who also teaches kindergarten, said the added funding could be especially helpful for rural districts with limited local resources.
“The reality is, weapons have been brought into schools,” Morgan said, adding that safety grants could allow rural systems to offset required costs while preserving local funds for other priorities.
The bill now heads to the Georgia State Senate for consideration. If approved, it would then go to Brian Kemp for his signature.