Federal Funding & School Security
The recently passed federal acts offer K-12 schools the opportunity to access funding that can
help them create a safer, healthier environment for students, staff, faculty, and visitors. Many life safety and security systems qualify for this funding, offering schools a chance to sidestep
traditional bidding processes and prevent dipping into tightening budgets.
How to Leverage Funding For Upgrading School Security
When it comes to using the funds made available, there are many ways schools can leverage these new resources to enhance their safety and security programs. As previously stated, many solutions and systems qualify for funding under these acts, allowing schools to bypass
traditional processes and budget challenges that too often become roadblocks to security
enhancements.
Access Control and Video Surveillance
Prior to the pandemic, school cafeterias, libraries, student unions, gyms, staff and faculty break rooms, and other common areas were often bustling with activity. Now, however, schools are tightening access to these areas and many are using access control systems to enforce these measures. With more restricted areas comes the need for more video surveillance to ensure the school can monitor for breaches in access or unwanted behavior taking place in these closed areas.
Additionally, during the shutdown in the spring of 2020, many schools experienced the need for remote security management. When students, staff and faculty were sent home, they were left with the bare minimum of staff on-site to monitor the school’s security. However, cloud-based/remote-capable security systems, such as access control and video surveillance, enable schools to easily manage their systems from a distance.
In the case of access, schools can control access privileges, update door schedules, pull reports and more – all without the need to be on-site. With video, schools can access, manage, and monitor video footage from a single, remote platform.
Interoperable Communications
The CDC has recommended that schools participate with local authorities in larger community response efforts. One way to do this is to employ an interoperable communications platform that allows K-12 schools to seamlessly connect with law enforcement, government agencies, and other educational institutions to collaborate in real time.
These partnerships can share communications, data, and video all on a single, secure platform, meaning there are fewer delays in communication and fewer barriers to a rapid response in the event of an emergency. With access to timely information and data, schools can gain greater situational awareness and better communicate both internally and externally.
Contact us today and learn how we can help get you started.
217-566-2826