School management discusses recent shooting and mobile phone ban at board meeting

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – On Tuesday evening, Richmond County School Board leaders addressed the shooting outside the Laney-Westside game Friday night.

Fortunately No one was injured in the shooting.

Board members say students deserve better and they want to help create a better environment for students and the community.

“Gunshots were heard at the football game, causing chaos and commotion. There was chaos at Laney Stadium,” said Superintendent Kenneth Bradshaw. “Let me be clear. Our students and visitors deserve better. With all the distractions students already have to contend with, this is an unnecessary distraction that I know will have a subtle impact on student performance. Gunshots at football games should not be a topic of discussion.”

The Board members also discussed the recent Cell phone policy that the district has implemented.

A petition called on the district to revise its blanket ban on cell phones, smartwatches and headphones.

Those responsible say they are considering this step.

“I am aware of the online feedback. I will continue to take this information into consideration. However, I can assure you that we, the school administration and most importantly our teachers, appreciate the reduced distractions in the classroom as a result of the new policy. I firmly believe this is the right thing to do to build a stronger school culture and a positive climate for students,” Bradshaw said.

We spoke with Augusta Commissioner Francine Scott about the shooting near Laney's football game. She says her colleague is school board member Venus Cain.

Scott plans to speak with her this week to develop possible solutions and discuss how they can get the sheriff's office to help.

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