Top 5 Security Technologies Every K-12 School Needs
It may be idealistic, but for kids, schools are a place for growth and, in the best way, for them to stumble through life to learn their way. To help further this ideal, there are continued advancements in teaching methodologies and student behavioral interventions, with balancing technology in the classroom and school communication systems. Security technologies have become one of the most critical aspects of school because you can never be too careful with safety. School safety technology integrates sensors and communication systems to enhance student health and security. We have moved well beyond relying solely on announcements over the loudspeaker and moved into sophisticated alerting systems, visual and audio, door and campus access solutions, and security cameras, all to bring peace of mind to parents, students, faculty, and first responders.
Think about the last time there was an emergency on campus; what technology support would have made that situation smoother? Our purpose in this blog isn’t to relive a traumatic event but to learn from it. This article will highlight security technologies you should consider.
Understanding the Importance of School Safety
A welcoming and safe learning environment for students is vital to K-12 and higher education outcomes. It’s an ongoing challenge for administrators to maintain safety and security for K-12 schools, college, and university campuses while keeping them open to students, teachers, and staff. Physical violence isn’t the only safety concern either; a significant aspect is how the response is handled for a medical emergency. For instance, a student has an allergic reaction to something, and the same advanced security features constructed for those cruel incidents benefit the response time for that student. The proper alerts to staff and administrators, as well as first responders, increase the likelihood of a positive outcome for the student.
School property and student safety risks are also ever-changing, from vandalism and theft to violence between students or external threats. Enhancing campus safety by incorporating proactive measures to detect threats early is crucial. Integrated security and communication solutions help mitigate risks, protect school buildings and grounds, and improve emergency response when monitoring, detecting, and responding to threats. According to a 2022 study from Pew Research, only 64 percent of schools had a threat assessment team for emergencies.
Related content: What Schools Need to Know About Threat Assessment Techniques
Security Management Platforms for Schools
Implementing a security management platform centralizes the maintenance, operational state, and scaling of school alarm systems, access control, and video security. This reduces the IT department's workload, increases productivity, and ensures school and campus security systems are up and running. A powerful but straightforward security management platform provides a single interface to manage multiple security systems in an effort to streamline school safety and security operations.
Integrated School Security Systems
Every aspect of the monitoring solution should seamlessly connect. An access control system is crucial in integrating various security components like locks, cameras, and alarms, ensuring that only authorized individuals can enter the facilities while keeping unauthorized personnel out. Connecting the various pieces of school security solutions together makes for a stronger, more cohesive system. ElectroMedia integrates locks, access control, cameras, alarms, and phone systems. Integrated security systems can give a complete view of school safety and security so administrators can respond quickly and effectively to incidents.
The better you assess a situation, the better you respond.
1. Access Control Systems for Schools
Access control systems are keyless entry systems that secure outdoor and indoor spaces. Multiple access control methods exist, including keypads, cards, biometrics, and mobile-based systems. Advanced access control systems can detect intruders and alert security teams, pinpointing the exact location of the intrusion. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, as of 2022, only 61 percent of schools used access control systems.
Access control is vital to school security, ensuring only authorized people have access to certain areas of the school. Proper access control can prevent unauthorized entry and reduce the risk of breaches. The more control you have over who and where people can access, the more secure everyone is. A visitor management system enhances school safety by screening, tracking, and providing quick notifications during emergencies, integrating with physical security features like camera networks and alert systems.
Related content: Keep Students Safer with Access Control Systems for Schools
Secure Door Opening Solutions
Choosing the right door openers is an essential part of access control systems. Secure door openers can prevent unauthorized entry and reduce the risk of breaches. Secure door solutions can also include automatic locking mechanisms triggered from a central location to ensure even more safety.
2. Security Cameras in Schools
School security cameras are meant to back up faculty and security officials by covering entire campuses since people can’t be everywhere simultaneously. These cameras enhance situational awareness and response capabilities by providing live and recorded video to the control room via video management software, and they are readily available to authorities if needed. Security cameras provide essential information for school security procedures, allowing administrators to monitor and respond to incidents in real-time. Video surveillance is a crucial aspect of campus security, one that cannot be overlooked or left to chance.
3. Mass Notification Systems for Emergency Response
A mass notification system is at the heart of many integrated security solutions for rapid multi-channel communication in emergencies and everyday operations. For instance, a code is pressed on a control panel in the front office, which triggers an event sequence. This sequence includes notification to the superintendent, principals of nearby schools, and emergency services. Since time is of the essence, rapid response helps people get the needed information as quickly as possible.
Audio alerts: Paging with pre-recorded messages that communicate immediately during incidents.
Visual alerts: Color-specific emergency lights will flash and match the audio alert so those with hearing concerns understand what’s occurring.
Depending on the scenario, you can use mass notification to alert students, staff, and parents in an emergency so they can respond quickly.
Related content: Future-Proof Your School’s Communications with Midwest Dial Tone
4. Evaluating and Improving School Safety
Creating a safe school environment through integrated technology is not a one-time project but an ongoing evaluation and refinement process. Schools must stay vigilant and open to new solutions as technology advances and new threats emerge. Regular assessments that test procedures and plan for improvements will ensure school safety and security systems are up and running.
Key Considerations for School Security Systems
When implementing a school security system, several key considerations must be considered. First and foremost, it’s essential to assess your school's specific security needs, taking into account factors such as the size of the campus, the number of students and staff, and the types of threats you’re trying to mitigate. A thorough assessment will help you identify the most critical areas that need protection and the best security solutions to address those needs.
Another critical consideration is the integration of various security components, including access control, video surveillance, and alarm systems. A comprehensive school security system should seamlessly integrate these components to provide a unified and effective security solution. This integration ensures that all parts of the system work together to enhance overall security and streamline incident response.
Additionally, it’s crucial to consider the user experience and ensure that the security system is easy for school administrators and staff to use and manage. This includes training and support to confirm everyone is comfortable using the system and can respond effectively in an emergency. A user-friendly system will increase the likelihood of proper usage and quick response times during critical situations.
Finally, it’s essential to consider the security system's scalability and flexibility, as your school's needs may change over time. A modular and adaptable system will allow you to easily add or remove components as needed, ensuring that your school remains secure and safe. By planning for future growth and changes, you can guarantee that your security system continues to meet your school's evolving needs.
5. Lockdown Strategies and Protocols
Creating extensive lockdown strategies and protocols is essential to any school safety plan and can vary widely depending on every facility's unique requirements. These procedures should include a specific lockdown method based on how decisions are made and what the expectations are during the incident. A well-planned lockdown can ensure student, teacher, and staff safety in emergencies.
BONUS: Create a System for Training and Drills
Clear, standardized response protocols are a critical school safety strategy component, providing a common language and actions for various emergency scenarios. Creating a system is one thing, but without constant testing and refinement, any well-thought-out plan is meaningless. Safety protocols require a comprehensive approach that incorporates multiple technologies and strategies, including collaboration with local law enforcement and emergency medical services.
Training and Support for School Staff
Providing adequate training and support for school staff is critical to ensuring the effective use of a school security system. This includes training on access control systems, video surveillance, alarm systems, and emergency response protocols and procedures. Comprehensive training reinforces that staff members are familiar with the security technologies and know how to use them effectively.
School administrators should also consider providing regular drills and exercises to prepare staff to respond to emergencies. This can include active shooter drills, lockdown procedures, and evacuation protocols. Regular practice helps staff members become more confident and efficient in their response, reducing the likelihood of panic and confusion during real emergencies.
Furthermore, ongoing support and maintenance for the security system, including regular software updates, hardware maintenance, and technical support, are essential. This will verify that the system remains functional and effective over time. Keeping the system up-to-date and well-maintained is crucial for addressing potential vulnerabilities and guaranteeing that security measures continue providing optimal protection.
By providing comprehensive training and support, school administrators can ensure that their staff are equipped to respond effectively in an emergency and that their school remains a safe and secure learning environment. Investing in training and support enhances the security system's effectiveness and fosters a culture of safety and preparedness within the school community.
Future of School Security Technologies
Cybersecurity Threats to School Security Systems
Working with an industry leader like ElectroMedia puts you ahead of most other organizations. Cybersecurity has moved beyond just mega-corporations, and schools must be vigilant. Focus on best practices and solutions that protect confidential information. Cyber threats can compromise school infrastructures – including security systems – and put student safety and data at risk.
Comprehensive Safety and Wellness Programs
Integrated safety systems now include sensors to monitor air quality, detecting issues like carbon monoxide, high CO2 levels, or bathroom vaping. Smart sensors integrated with communications and video technologies offer schools a range of advanced safety solutions. Incorporating these programs can create a safe and supportive environment for every student.
Secure Your School with Advanced Security Technologies from ElectroMedia
No school or organization is the same, so building a security solution alone is not recommended. We work tirelessly to build the best system that exceeds your expectations. When you partner with ElectroMedia, you get a full-service managed service provider who will be here whenever you need us. Contact us today. It's time to upgrade your school safety platform.
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