As students and staff return to school in Charleston County, safety is the top priority. The school district is launching two new programs this year to help keep everyone safe.
New Badge System for School Staff
All school officials at the district’s 90 schools will receive a new badge this year. This badge works like a wearable panic button with two main features.
The first feature lets staff quickly ask for help from another adult for things like behavior problems or medical emergencies.
The second feature is for serious emergencies. It can trigger an immediate school lockdown if someone senses danger. Michael Reidenbach, the district’s executive director of security, said every employee can use the badge to lock down the school if they believe there is a threat. For example, if a teacher hears gunfire or sees someone suspicious outside, they can activate the lockdown right away. The badge system will take about six months to be fully used in all schools.
Expanded Random Searches at Middle Schools
Another safety step this year is expanding random searches to all middle schools. This process is similar to security checks at government buildings. Students will remove items from their pockets and walk through metal detectors. Search teams will check bags for prohibited items.
Charleston County School District has been doing these searches in high schools since 2018. Common items found include prescription medicines and vapes, with occasional knives and pepper spray. Last year, security found its first contraband item in a search.
The district is careful to make these searches respectful and stress that they are random and routine. The safety team meets with classes first to explain the process and reassure students that no one is in trouble. This program is meant to add an extra layer of safety in schools while treating students with care.
Charleston County is making important efforts to improve school safety. By introducing the new badge system and expanding random searches, the district is working hard to protect students and staff and create a safer learning environment for everyone.
