SCCPSS implementing increased security measures

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) – The Savannah-Chatham County Public School System (SCCPSS) Police Department is implementing new safety measures this 2024-2025 school year.

Officials say staffing, training and technology are their priorities to keep everyone at 55 SCCPSS schools safe.

“If someone comes in and decides to do something, you know, unimaginable… I can’t stop that from going into somebody’s head, but I can prevent it from harming people, if I put certain things in place,” Chief Terry Enoch said.

The police chief says he and his staff are working with local partners and police to narrow down what could happen in the district.

“If you want a barometer of what can happen in schools, look what’s happening in communities around schools, and that can easily bleed over into schools,” he said.

That’s why Enoch says this summer, they have been focusing on training.

Emergency Management Director Justin Pratt says officers have been utilizing the vacant Port Wentworth Elementary to carry out active shooter drills and other scenarios. They have been focusing on room clearing, moving down hallways as a group and confrontation.

Also, new technology is here.

“We’re introducing vape detectors. They’re actually multi-sensor detectors; they detect more than just vape. They detect elevated noise levels for if there’s a fight or horse playing happening in an area. It detects gunshots. It detects some certain keywords like ‘Help,'” he said.

Also in schools are metal detectors and, of course, cameras and on-site officers.

Something still in the works is bus safety training for drivers and monitors.

As far as staffing, over 90 percent of their police officer and resource officer positions are filled.

Superintendent Dr. Denise Watts says teachers, faculty and even students contribute to a safe environment.

“We are excited to have most of those positions filled, but I want to also just emphasize that safety is everyone’s responsibility. It takes every single person to do his or her part,” Watts said.

Officials say they are still in need of crossing guards, and there are still a small number of open positions within the police department.

Explore SCCPSS career opportunities here.