The EducateAustin.com Team has kids in K12 schools around the Austin, Texas area. Just like all parents, families, teachers, staff, and communities – we want to do everything within our power to keep our schools safe.
We have interviewed experts and gathered data on how to improve school safety. Please join the discussion and add your own suggestions by providing comments.
Roger Borlinghaus, Founder of Saltcreek Technologies, Inc. works with K12 schools throughout Texas to upgrade security systems and IT infrastructure.
"We're seeing schools across Texas upgrade their security systems with a focus on automation, detection, and training. In terms of technology, schools are installing more efficient door locks and video surveillance. These assets are part of an overarching School Security Strategic Plan that we develop in collaboration with each school's leadership. Often districts have policies that we help schools implement using the latest in security technologies."
Another recommendation of the School Security Strategic Plan that is that local police officers participate in training exercises on-campus (during summer when students are not on-campus). Most if not all K12 schools across Texas regularly practice school security drills and trainings. However, our research showed that most schools do not include local police in security simulations, like an active shooter on campus training.
The Austin Independent School District (AISD) offers Things to Do and Not Do for Families. AISD’s key message is IF YOU SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING.
We will be adding more to this post leading up to the start of the Fall `22 school year.
Please add comments and your suggestions for keeping our schools safe.
