Horry County Schools Roll Out AI-Driven Online Monitoring Program

CONWAY, S.C. - Today, Horry County Schools announced the launch of a new AI-driven monitoring system designed to enhance student safety by detecting and addressing potentially harmful online behavior. The initiative, unveiled on August 27, equips district technology staff with tools to automatically flag:

• Threatening language and self-harm indicators
• Cyberbullying and harassment
• Access to inappropriate content on personal and school-issued devices

According to district officials, the system employs machine-learning algorithms to analyze text and images in real time, alerting counselors and administrators when a student’s online activity suggests they may be at risk. The technology provider partnered with Horry County Schools to ensure compliance with all student-privacy regulations and to maintain transparent protocols for data access and review.

Superintendent Clifford Jones stated, “Our foremost priority is the well-being of every student. By harnessing advanced analytics, we can intervene more swiftly when concerns arise, while still respecting privacy and fostering a supportive learning environment.” School board members endorsed the program unanimously at a special meeting earlier this month, citing growing online safety challenges in recent years.

The district has scheduled parent-information sessions at each attendance-area high school next week, during which families can learn about the technology’s capabilities, data safeguards, and how it integrates with existing student-support services. Implementation will begin immediately, with full rollout across all schools by early September.