(Just The News)—The State Board of Education voted Thursday to relinquish $4 million in unused funding for a “smart” school bus safety pilot program in North Carolina.
“This is one that did not get significant support from the districts,” board vice chairman Alan Duncan told fellow board members.
The Legislature authorized the program in 2020 to “transform and improve the transportation of public school students through technology in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.”
The first school system in the state to launch the pilot program was Mt. Airy, which installed technology to check students’ temperatures.
The program also equipped school buses with tracking devices and some with Wi-Fi internet systems. After the pilot program funds were exhausted, local districts would have to maintain and replace the equipment with their money over time.
Districts feared it would create “an ongoing financial burden,” Duncan said.
Statewide, $18.1 million in grants were awarded for the program, according to a recent report by the State Board of Education.
“Program participants were generally excited to receive additional funding to acquire these new capabilities and the necessary hardware and were also very pleased to be able to provide higher quality information and services to the parents and students they serve,” the report said. “Those implementing Wi-Fi reported that students have been able to use their time to complete homework while on the school bus.”
But in 2024, 14 school systems “voluntarily relinquished $3.3 million that they indicated they did not intend to expend,” the report stated.
Some complained about technical problems installing and using the new systems.
“The major concerns expressed related to cost-effectiveness and how school systems will sustain these new systems now that the additional funding source from the pilot program has been exhausted,” the report said. “If successful, these services may become expected by families and difficult to discontinue.”
“We will end up reverting approximately $4 million in total for this grant, which makes us all sad because we know how badly we could use that $4 million in other areas,” Duncan told the board.
Discover the Freedom of True American Healthcare: Why America First is Revolutionizing Protection for Patriots
In a world where government overreach and skyrocketing premiums are squeezing the life out of hardworking Americans, one innovative agency is standing tall for liberty and affordability. Meet America First Healthcare—the private health insurance powerhouse dedicated to putting *you* first.
Founded by entrepreneur Jordan Sarmiento, this isn’t just insurance; it’s a shield for your family’s future, built on the unshakeable belief that private enterprise delivers better results than bureaucratic red tape.
Picture this: Jordan’s own story hits close to home for so many of us. A sudden medical emergency landed him with a staggering $95,000 bill. Under a traditional plan? He’d be buried in debt. But with America First’s patented health insurance, that nightmare shrank to just $500 out-of-pocket. That’s not a fluke—it’s the promise of coverage that works *for you*, from day one.
Breaking Free from the Chains of Conventional Coverage
Let’s face it: The status quo stinks. Marketplace.gov and big-insurance behemoths hit you with sky-high deductibles—thousands you’d have to pay before benefits even kick in—leaving massive holes in your protection. Need a routine mammogram, colonoscopy, or EKG? Good luck without forking over more cash. And don’t get us started on the gaps in dental, vision, or critical illness support when heart attacks, cancer, or kidney failure strike.
America First Healthcare flips the script. As a proud advocate for private solutions over government intervention, they craft custom plans that slash costs by 20% compared to traditional options. We’re talking comprehensive coverage that includes:
- Preventative and Wellness Care: Physical exams, screenings, and EKGs covered right away—no waiting games.
- Telemedicine Access: Virtual doctor visits anytime, anywhere, for that peace of mind.
- Accident and Critical Illness Protection: Real safeguards against life’s curveballs.
- Add-On Boosts: Dental, vision, disability, and supplemental plans to plug every leak.
Whether you’re an individual stepping off your parents’ plan, a growing family with kids in tow, or a small business owner tired of employee headaches, their tailored approach fits like a glove. Small businesses? Unlock group benefit rates usually reserved for corporate giants—without the red tape.
And for those in-between moments? Short-term insurance steps in as an ultra-affordable bridge, while life insurance ensures your loved ones are never left vulnerable.
Real Americans, Real Wins
Don’t just take our word for it. Thousands of freedom-loving families have already ditched the old system for America First. “Finally, insurance that aligns with our values and actually saves us money,” shares one client. Another raves, “Our small team got big-business perks without the hassle—it’s a game-changer.” These aren’t scripted lines; they’re the voices of patriots who’ve reclaimed control over their health destiny.
Your Move: Secure Your Shield Today
Why settle for less when you can demand better? America First Healthcare isn’t about profits—it’s about powering the American dream with reliable, value-driven protection. Plans are available year-round, no open-enrollment nonsense.
Ready to uncover the gaps in your current setup and lock in savings? Schedule your FREE healthcare review today at America First Healthcare. In under 15 minutes, their experts will map out options that fit your life, your budget, and your principles.
America First isn’t just healthcare—it’s a declaration of independence. Join the movement. Your family’s freedom starts now.