Board hears update on safety measures, annex repairs and plans for student advisory committee and community input on backpacks and metal detectors

The Stewart County school director gave the board an update on multiple safety and facilities topics, including continued installation of bullet‑resistant window film, consideration of metal detectors, expanded threat‑assessment training, temporary repairs to the annex roof and plans to convene standing committees including a student advisory group.

The director said installation of bullet‑resistant film on windows is continuing and that the district is studying metal detectors; the director said state funds may become available to help purchase equipment. The director also said the district is expanding training for personnel who perform threat assessments and that required reporting numbers on threat assessments will be provided at a future meeting.

On facilities, the director said the district has ordered a replacement curtain for the annex stage and plans to lay new rubber over the annex roof as a temporary repair that is expected to start within weeks. The director said some stakeholders have proposed larger renovations or a new building, which would be much more expensive — the director estimated a new building could be "probably a few million dollars," and said the district will explore renovation options with principals and report back.

Board members and community‑representing members raised concerns about potential policies on clear backpacks and metal detectors. One board member relayed outreach from bus drivers, teachers and parents who urged more input before adopting clear‑backpack rules; some said they would prefer banning backpacks rather than requiring clear bags. The director said the district will solicit input from principals, consider surveys and public comment opportunities, and bring recommendations back to the board after spring break.

The director also said the board will re‑activate several policy committees that have not been used recently and that he expects to appoint members to those committees before the next school year, with a particular focus on establishing a student advisory committee to meet quarterly and report to the board.