Georgetown County, SC, August 5, 2025
News Summary
Georgetown County Schools has introduced new safety initiatives for students, focusing on a vape-free policy and an updated bullying reporting system. The measures aim to create healthier school environments, support student well-being through increased counseling staff, and address academic performance with a literacy initiative for young learners. With the addition of electric buses and improved lunch options, the district is taking steps to ensure a safe and supportive atmosphere for all students.
Georgetown County Schools Implements New Safety Measures for Students
Georgetown County, SC – Georgetown County Schools has launched a comprehensive set of initiatives for the 2025 school year, focused primarily on student safety and promoting healthy environments within the district. This includes a new vape-free policy aimed at combating the growing concern over vaping among students and a revamp of the bullying reporting system to make it easier for the school community to report incidents.
The district, which serves approximately 7,500 students, initiated the school year on August 1, 2023, with these critical modifications. Superintendent Dr. Bethany Giles emphasized that student safety transcends merely physical protection, underscoring the importance of making healthy choices.
Key Features of the Vape-Free Policy
To effectively address vaping, the district has initiated training for staff on how to approach vaping-related concerns with students. Additionally, lessons focused on the associated risks are being developed by Physical Education and health teachers to educate students on the dangers of vaping. Coaches within the athletics department will also undergo training to clarify expectations regarding vaping for student-athletes, reinforcing a culture of wellness.
The new vape-free policy comes with disciplinary actions for students who violate the guidelines. However, the emphasis will be placed on rehabilitation rather than harsh punishment, with a commitment to guiding students towards healthier choices. The district is partnering with local organizations to provide additional support in helping students maintain a vape-free lifestyle.
Revamping Bullying Reporting System
In conjunction with the vape-free initiative, Georgetown County Schools is overhauling its bullying reporting system to allow for easier reporting by teachers, students, parents, and community members. Streamlining this process aims to foster a school environment rooted in health, safety, and overall student success.
Curriculum and Community Support Updates
In addition to safety policies, the district is addressing educational gaps with a new literacy initiative targeting second graders. This aims to enhance reading skills and improve academic performance across the board. To further support transportation, sixteen new electric buses will be added to the fleet, although the district is actively seeking additional bus drivers to meet route demand.
Enhanced Safety Protocols and Resources
Overall safety measures include thorough audits of existing protocols, increased use of metal detectors, and ensuring a school resource officer is present in every school. The district has also adopted a progressive discipline plan designed to lead students towards making better choices. After the tragic loss of six students last year, additional counselors have been hired to support student mental health needs.
Additionally, teacher salaries have been increased by $2,500, which elevates pay above state mandates, benefiting not only teachers but also classified staff. The enhanced lunch program will offer healthier options, including salad bars, when students return to school.
Challenges Ahead
Despite these positive developments, the district faces challenges including fluctuating enrollment driven by the closure of a nearby paper mill and the ongoing impacts of social media on student focus and engagement. Last year, the district implemented a ban on cell phones, which has reportedly led to improved student participation in classrooms.
Georgetown County Schools remains committed to creating a safe, healthy, and supportive environment for all students, aligning with their vision for long-term academic and personal success.
FAQ Section
What is the new vape-free policy in Georgetown County Schools?
The vape-free policy prohibits the use of vaping products within school premises to enhance student safety and promote healthy lifestyle choices.
How is the district addressing bullying?
The bullying reporting system is being revamped to ease the process of reporting incidents for teachers, students, parents, and community stakeholders.
What initiatives are being launched for literacy?
A literacy initiative targeting second graders is being introduced to bridge achievement gaps and improve reading skills.
Are there any new transportation measures?
The district is adding sixteen new electric buses to its fleet and is currently looking for additional bus drivers to cover school routes.
What measures are in place to support student well-being?
Increased counseling staff and additional safety protocols including resource officers in schools aim to enhance student support and safety.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Vape-Free Policy | Prohibits vaping in schools, with a focus on student rehabilitation. |
| Bullying Reporting System | A revamped system for easier reporting by all community members. |
| Literacy Initiative | Targets second graders to improve reading skills. |
| Transportation | Addition of sixteen electric buses and hiring more drivers. |
| Student Support | Increased accessibility to counselors and resource officers in schools. |
| Teacher Salaries | Increased by $2,500, enhancing pay above state mandates. |
| Healthy Lunch Options | Improved lunch offerings including salad bars for students. |
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Additional Resources
- Live 5 News: Georgetown County Schools Goes Vape-Free
- Count On 2: Superintendent Talks Safety Measures
- GAB News Online: Tougher Measures Against Vaping
- Wikipedia: Vaping
- Google Search: Student Safety Initiatives
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