Sussex Tech High School in Georgetown recently installed new security cameras on its school buses.
The new camera system is on 33 school buses.
Sussex Tech administrators say the upgrade provides a more uniform platform — which the school will be fully responsible for operating. But they will also be able to review bus footage at any time.
Director Matthew Donovan says it’s always good to improve technology when possible.
“We also added an extra camera to the side of the bus, so when it’s outside and all the traffic has to stop next to it, it records what’s nearby. So if someone were to step on the arm that turns off when the bus is stopped, we can get footage of that.”
Donovan adds that they expect the multiple cameras inside each bus to be a deterrent to unruly behavior by students.
“We take school safety as a top priority here in our buildings,” Donovan said. “And we review our technology periodically to make sure it’s working for us. It’s the best out there that can give us the best images, and of course the addition of the arm cam is key to making sure our students to be safe and to hold those who drive accountable. And that’s important we feel.”
The cameras work in a passive monitoring system. There is also a passive GPS system to identify the location of an incident, along with information such as the speed of the bus and the time the stop weapon was deployed.
The camera upgrade cost the District $94,000, with additional money earmarked for maintenance.
