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New law allows audio recording on school bus; Seneca Valley close to implementing

JACKSON TOWNSHIP, Pa. — A new policy in the Seneca Valley School District may allow district officials to hear audio of students on school buses.

Channel 11's Amy Marcinkiewicz reported that school board members will have to pass a vote on the policy three times for it to go into effect.

Seneca Valley already uses surveillance equipment to videotape the buses, and the audio would be an addition.

In the past, state law did not allow audio recordings, but that changed recently. The only stipulation is that the bus company must post warnings about the audio devices and parents must receive written notices.

Marcinkiewicz reported the new audio will not cost the taxpayers any money because the cameras already installed have audio available. A simple switch needs to be flipped to enable audio recordings.

“I think it’s a great idea. My kid was bullied on the bus and this would have really helped,” parent Tony Rosso said. “I think these kids need to know they’re being taped.”

Jackson Township police, who patrol for Seneca Valley, said the new audio recordings will be a win-win.

“Now we can see and hear what’s going on. There is no more he-said, she-said,” Jackson Township police Chief Terry Seilhammer said.

District officials said they hope to have the audio equipment enabled by next school year.