Allow certified students in Scott County schools to use radio equipment
Allow certified students in Scott County schools to use radio equipment
The Issue
I recently faced the unfortunate situation of being told by a school administrator that I should not bring my walkie-talkie back to school, with the threat of suspension hanging over my head. As someone who holds a United States Federal Communications Commission Part 97 certification, I understand the importance and responsibility of using radio equipment. Unfortunately, it seems that there is a misunderstanding regarding radio interference at school, which was simply a propagation error.
This is not just about myself. Numerous students who, like me, hold a Part 97 certification, rely on radio equipment for various educational and extracurricular activities. For instance, some students participate in SKYWARN programs, which involve real-time weather monitoring. During severe weather conditions, access to such communication tools can be critical.
We are respectfully petitioning the Scott County KY Schools district school board, superintendent Billy Parker, and the Great Crossing High School Principal and Administration to reconsider their stance. We propose that certified students be permitted to bring radios or walkie-talkies onto school premises. This arrangement can further be secured by requiring all school administrator radios to operate with encrypted signals. Such actions will ensure safety, prevent interference, and support educational enrichment.
It's important to recognize the value that amateur radio brings to students, particularly those pursuing scientific and technological interests. Allowing certified students to use their skills and equipment in school fosters innovation and practical learning experiences.
By supporting this petition, you are championing a balanced approach that ensures both security and opportunity for the youth in our community. Please join us in encouraging Scott County educators and administrators to adopt this fair and forward-thinking proposal.
We also ask the Georgetown-Scott County Amateur Radio Club to be involved in this as well.
Sign this petition to support students' rights to use radio equipment responsibly and foster a nurturing learning environment.
1
The Issue
I recently faced the unfortunate situation of being told by a school administrator that I should not bring my walkie-talkie back to school, with the threat of suspension hanging over my head. As someone who holds a United States Federal Communications Commission Part 97 certification, I understand the importance and responsibility of using radio equipment. Unfortunately, it seems that there is a misunderstanding regarding radio interference at school, which was simply a propagation error.
This is not just about myself. Numerous students who, like me, hold a Part 97 certification, rely on radio equipment for various educational and extracurricular activities. For instance, some students participate in SKYWARN programs, which involve real-time weather monitoring. During severe weather conditions, access to such communication tools can be critical.
We are respectfully petitioning the Scott County KY Schools district school board, superintendent Billy Parker, and the Great Crossing High School Principal and Administration to reconsider their stance. We propose that certified students be permitted to bring radios or walkie-talkies onto school premises. This arrangement can further be secured by requiring all school administrator radios to operate with encrypted signals. Such actions will ensure safety, prevent interference, and support educational enrichment.
It's important to recognize the value that amateur radio brings to students, particularly those pursuing scientific and technological interests. Allowing certified students to use their skills and equipment in school fosters innovation and practical learning experiences.
By supporting this petition, you are championing a balanced approach that ensures both security and opportunity for the youth in our community. Please join us in encouraging Scott County educators and administrators to adopt this fair and forward-thinking proposal.
We also ask the Georgetown-Scott County Amateur Radio Club to be involved in this as well.
Sign this petition to support students' rights to use radio equipment responsibly and foster a nurturing learning environment.
1
The Decision Makers
Petition created on March 15, 2026