School districts are primarily challenged with implementing needed security measures in K-12 schools with a lack of resources available.

While each school’s needs vary, there are security infrastructure improvements available that are budget conscious and effective. Simply retrofitting existing doors and hardware in a more defensible way can be done with limited resources.

Security enhancement of existing components can be performed at a relatively low cost. For example, a security film can be placed over the sidelight on a door in order to delay access of an intruder. Simply implementing new protocols such as keeping classroom doors locked during the school day are also easy ways of improving school security. We specialize in security infrastructure while working within school budgets and we can offer low cost suggestions to improve your school security.

There are other inexpensive tools available to schools such as Sandy Hook Promise’s free anonymous reporting app. The reporting system allows for anonymous reporting of safety concerns. The app enables students and adults to submit their concerns securely and anonymously. The system was designed to help identify and intervene in a proactive manner before at-risk individuals may hurt themselves or others. Harassment and bullying can also be reported through the app. Implementing tools such as this is cost-effective and may help prevent future attacks.

Finding Other Sources of Funding

Funding from Congress can also help schools pay for improvements to security. The STOP School Violence Act of 2018 – is an omnibus funding bill that passed earlier this year. The bill awarded $70 million this October to school districts, law enforcement agencies and municipalities across the nation.

The funds are designed to address three categories: Threat assessment and technology reporting, prevention, and mental health training.

While there are no national school security standards in place and many states have yet to establish specific school facility security requirements, a Federal Commission on School Safety was formed to provide actionable recommendations to keep students safe at school.

Hopefully, in the wake of the Parkland, FL and Santa Fe, TX school shootings earlier this year the public demand for security improvements and intervention will finally be heard.

To discuss your school or district’s unique security concerns, contact our team.  We’ll do an assessment of your campuses and put together a plan to fit your needs. Call us to learn more about how your school can ensure the most effective use of its limited resources for security. Free consultation: 866-676-7176.