Missouri School District Gets $4.3 Million to Upgrade School Security

Missouri School District Gets $4.3 Million to Upgrade School Security

One of the district’s first priorities is to implement a brand-new visitor screening process in the spring.

  • By Jessica Davis
  • November 06, 2018

Springfield Public Schools are stepping up their campus security measures with $4.3 million allocated for upgrades.

The Springfield School Board has allotted $4.3 million to fund upgrades in the district’s school safety. Some of the district’s goals for the funding include increasing active shooter training, building safety and security training.

"We just are doing everything we can to reassure our public that we are doing everything we can to keep kids safe," said Bret Range, executive director of student services. 

One of the district’s first priorities is to implement a brand-new visitor screening process in the spring. Campuses will ensure that photos of visitors are added to the system so that their badges match their photo before they’re allowed to enter the school.

Springfield Public Schools has also reviewed their camera surveillance system and locks to ensure that the tech is functioning at its best.

"Make sure they're upgraded, they are working, that we have the ability to lock them quickly. We have done a camera audit on all exterior doors that have cameras and those that don't so we have a needs assessment of where we need to invest some resources to improve our camera system," Range said.

According to Range, the district may first test the new visitor screening process before implementing it in every school.

"In 2018, our community requires it, demands it that we keep our schools, our kids safe. We know that kids won't learn if they don't feel safe and teachers can't teach if they don't feel safe," Range said. 

About the Author

Jessica Davis is the Associate Content Editor for 1105 Media.

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