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Press Release

For Immediate Release
April 21, 2008
Contact: Sean C. Bonyun
(202) 225-3761

Upton Bill Keeps Kids Safe at School - Promotes K-12 Emergency Alert System
Commonsense SEND Act makes funds available through already existing program, empowering school districts to implement their own alert system

KALAMAZOO, MI – Congressman Fred Upton (R-St. Joseph) today unveiled bipartisan legislation to ensure all schools across the nation have access to funds to create their own emergency notification service through mobile text messages, e-mail and other telecommunications and information services.  Upton and Rep. Bobby Rush, Democrat from Chicago, authored the School Emergency Notification Deployment (SEND) Act, H.R. 5806, which simply amends existing telecommunications law to allow schools to use E-Rate funds to install and operate emergency notification systems at their own discretion.

“It is imperative that all possible steps are taken to ensure that schools have the tools they need to effectively alert students and parents of potential emergencies.  The sad reality is that many of our schools are unable to install alert systems because they do not have adequate funding - that has got to change,” said Upton.  “E-Rate is an invaluable program that provides many of our schools a helping hand, and this commonsense measure simply expands the scope of the program, allowing schools to use E-Rate funds to install and operate lifesaving alert systems.  Our students will be safer, and parents will have the peace of mind that a system is in place to provide real-time updates in the event of an emergency.” 

Studies reveal that one of the most widespread and significant reforms universities have implemented in the wake of last year’s Virginia Tech tragedy is the upgrade of emergency notification systems to ensure students and employees can be quickly alerted to emergencies unfolding on campus. While colleges and universities have employed these vital measures, it is also essential that K-12 schools have the resources to implement life-saving emergency alert systems.

 “It is tragic that schools today must constantly think about and prepare for a variety of emergencies that were unknown to previous generations,” said Portage Public Schools Superintendent Marsha Wells.  “That is, however, our reality. Assistance, such as the proposed SEND legislation, will go far in helping us not only educate, but stand watch over our community's children.”

“Student safety is a priority for every school in Berrien County,” said Berrien County Intermediate School District Superintendent Jeff Siegel. “Being able to access technology that allows schools to contact students’ families quickly through an instant alert system is a valuable tool.  With an instant alert system, schools can simply ‘click a button,’ and effectively and efficiently notify students, parents and staff of school closings, cancellations, and emergencies. We appreciate the efforts of the Congressmen in bringing this issue to the Legislature’s attention and supporting the schools’ efforts in maximizing student safety.”

Specifically, the SEND Act:

• Directs the FCC, within 180 days of enactment, to come up with a process for allowing schools to use E-Rate money for emergency notification services.
• Gives schools that do not have a current system priority in applying for these funds.
• Institutes performance standards to ensure services are being run effectively and efficiently.

“As the nation remembers the senseless violence at Virginia Tech and Columbine, we are starkly reminded of the critical need for schools to have emergency alert systems,” said Upton.  “This measure is a logical step that keeps pace with technology to provide our school systems the opportunity to implement emergency alert systems, all the while keeping our kids safe.”

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