BCSS Family,

We wanted to update you on topics related to security discussed at tonight’s Board of Education (BOE) Work Session. These actions are to quickly enhance the safety and security procedures we currently have while we continue to actively research and discuss additional safety measures at our schools.

School Resource Officers
School Resource officers are a vital part of our school district’s safety plan. Our partnership with the Barrow County Sheriff’s Department has allowed us to have highly trained law enforcement officers on our campuses. An increase in the number of SROs will further enhance our safety efforts and allow for more coverage. The Superintendent recommends adding eight School Resource Officer positions. The estimated cost for this addition will be $300,000 for the remainder of the year. The BOE approved this request so that Sheriff Jud Smith can begin hiring as soon as possible. 

Classroom Phones
To offer teachers an additional and efficient way to connect quickly with office staff and parents/guardians, the Superintendent recommends approving the purchase of desk phones for each classroom. The estimated cost will be $95,600. Having phones in every classroom expands immediate communication options for staff. The plan calls for ITS to install the phones first in our high schools. This item will be voted on at the Oct. 1 BOE meeting.

In addition to the items above, also the Superintendent discussed finalizing plans for community engagement opportunities to hear from parents, staff, and community members and will have more information to share in the coming weeks.

The next regular Board of Education meeting is Oct. 1 at 6 p.m. If you would like to request to speak, please complete this form. It needs to be submitted to the Superintendent’s Office at least 24 hours before the meeting.

Please know there is limited space in the board room but we do offer a live video feed on our YouTube channel.

Thank you,
Barrow County School System