Northeastern school district creates a safer learning environment

Security is a crucial priority for schools, especially as threats continue to evolve. One northeastern school district faced a security dilemma because its access control system was very limited, with only a few building entry and exit points properly equipped. Its camera system was non-extensive and did not provide administrators with sufficient visibility into facilities' overall security status. The district was ready to undergo a full retrofit across five schools and a sports complex facility to upgrade its systems and provide comprehensive protection.

The Johnson Controls team installed access control systems at all entry points across the district's six buildings and enhanced them with phone capabilities. The system was programmed to enable employee access at preferred entry points and alert school officials whenever a door is opened throughout the day. During off-hours, every building is monitored through the Johnson Controls remote monitoring center, enabling quick notification of local authorities if an alarm is activated. Access controls were integrated with exacqVision video surveillance solutions to provide a more holistic defense system.

With a comprehensive security system in place, including video surveillance, staff and students can feel safe in their schools. This was proven unexpectedly during a hands-on training demonstration held by Johnson Controls experts when a genuine threat was reported in the form of a student with a weapon a few days prior. Using the exacqVision system and suspect tracking technology, the Johnson Controls team was able to track the suspect's movements during the day in question and then quickly share the footage with local police, enabling a swift resolution. Through the strategic implementation of security systems, the school district can provide a safer learning environment for all.

In addition to the security benefits these new systems provide, the planned service agreement with Johnson Controls greatly frees up district facility managers' schedules through preventative maintenance, extending equipment lifecycle and efficiency. Because all systems were integrated onto a single monitoring platform at the school district's main office, security operations are streamlined and time is saved.

A northeastern school district serving students and staff across five schools and a sports complex facility.