Page 38 - School Planning & Management, July/August 2017

SAFETY&SECURITY THE SECURE SCHOOL PERIMETER
produces rapid communications and alert systems for schools.
“You can walk into just about any school and find that the majority share a similar problem — siloed system imple- mented on a project-to-project basis,” says Myers. “Schools may upgrade cameras
or their access control systems, but most don’t have the ability to comprehensively and proactively assess risk and address an issue when it arises. This results in com- munication breakdowns which can be an even bigger problem.”
Myers says she’s seen security cameras implemented everywhere and now we are starting to see intercom systems installed at the front door, allowing the front desk to see and speak to an individual before allowing them to gain access to the school. Added technology and security features, however, requires investment.
Spending on security-related hardware,
AUTOMATING RESPONSE WHEN A CRISIS HITS
In an ever-evolving world faced with strained resources, growing needs and wide-rang- ing threats, schools should not be alone in the pursuit of safety, technology and financial support. This belief is the fuel that drove the situational awareness technology company Status Solutions, based in Westerville, Ohio, to develop the School Solutions Network.
Participants of the School Solutions Network receive an automated alerting engine that integrates stand-alone alarm and communication systems for centralized monitoring, alerting and reporting.
School Solutions Network connects schools and communities — including local law enforcement, businesses and nonprofits — to utilize the resources and alleviate the needs of both groups. Additionally, through its grassroots task force, Operation Mom Power, the Network equips PTAs and PTOs with a strategy to harness community pride and resources to support and fund a school’s specific needs.
Such integration facilitates each school’s unique situation — whether that requires increasing safety and security, cultivating pride and funds, educating administration to keep technology and processes up to date, or all the above.
Source: www.statussolutions.com, Linday Bannister (lbannister@statussolutions.com)
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