Jackson County Schools will enhance security by installing over 100 new surveillance cameras across the district, thanks to a $278,410 grant from the Center for Safer Schools. The grant will allocate $45,000 for crisis intervention services, nearly $10,000 for safety training, and the remainder for purchasing security cameras.
Deputy Superintendent Jake Buchanan expressed excitement, stating that the funds will replace and update older cameras and introduce new units in strategic locations determined through annual safety walk-throughs with various stakeholders.
The increased grant amount reflects a larger budget allocation of $35 million by the North Carolina General Assembly for school safety grants through the Center for Safer Schools. Jackson County Schools joins others in utilizing these funds to improve safety measures.
The district has a history of investing in security, with past initiatives including single points of entry, securing classroom doors, and implementing electronic locks and a digital radio system. Deputy Superintendent Buchanan sought approval from the school board to spend up to $223,557 on security cameras through the grant, which was unanimously approved.
