Ensuring Safer, More Secure Schools
As the new school year approaches, the safety and security of students and staff are paramount concerns for K-12 educational institutions. Recently, ASIS International has made significant strides in school security by developing the new School Security Standard, approved by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).
This standard aims to provide a comprehensive, universally accepted framework for assessing and improving school safety measures and represents a significant advancement in the quest for safer schools. Schools can create a secure environment for students, staff, and the entire school community by adopting this standard and implementing these expert tips and strategies. Contact MCA today to learn more about how our solutions can help your school enhance safety and security in line with the new ASIS standard.
At MCA, we are excited to discuss this pivotal advancement and how our solutions can help schools meet and exceed these new standards.
Understanding the New School Security Standard
The ASIS International School Security Standard is the first ANSI-approved standard designed for educational institutions. This initiative addresses the inconsistency in school security regulations across different states and countries by providing a robust, industry-based framework. The standard covers various security issues, from basic preventive measures to addressing behavioral issues among students. It encourages schools to conduct baseline security evaluations, implement necessary improvements, and adopt a proactive risk assessment and management approach.
Development Process
ASIS International, a global community of security practitioners, is leading this initiative. Known for its expertise and dedication to advancing security practices, ASIS is well-positioned to address the complex challenges of school security. Over 50 industry experts developed the ASIS School Security Standard, which reflects a multi-hazard and multidisciplinary approach. The team includes professionals from school administration, security, architectural design, mental health, behavioral threat assessment, facilities management, life safety, emergency management, law enforcement, crisis communications, business continuity, and legal fields.
Public Comment Period
ASIS International has initiated a 45-day public comment period (from July 26 to September 9, 2024) as part of the standard’s development. This period allows stakeholders to review the draft standard and provide feedback, ensuring that the final document reflects the needs and insights of the broader educational and security communities.
Key Features of the Standard
Comprehensive Coverage
The standard addresses various security issues, providing a holistic approach to school safety.
Consensus-Based
It was developed through a rigorous, consensus-based process, ensuring it is comprehensive, practical, and grounded in the latest security expertise and research.
Sector-Specific
Tailored for educational settings, applicable to all schools regardless of size or location.
Flexible Framework
Establishes minimum security requirements while allowing schools to customize their security measures to their unique needs and resources.
Risk-Based Methodology
Encourages institutions to understand their unique environments and adopt a risk-based approach to security.
Key Pillars of the New Standard
Physical Security
Behavioral Threat Assessment Management (BTAM)
Emergency Operations Planning (EOP)
These pillars form the foundation of a comprehensive security program that schools can tailor to their specific needs while ensuring comprehensive protection.
Expert Tips and Strategies for Safer, More Secure Schools
To align with the new ASIS School Security Standard, here are some expert tips and strategies:
Physical Security
Secure Entrances
Ensure all exterior doors are locked during school hours. Use access control systems where possible. These systems typically involve electronic locks, ID card scanners, and secure visitor management processes, enhancing overall safety and allowing for quick identification of potential threats. By implementing controlled access systems, schools can regulate and monitor who enters and exits the building, significantly reducing the risk of unauthorized individuals gaining entry.
Classroom Locks
Equip classrooms with locks that can be secured from the inside in case of an emergency. Consider installing panic buttons in classrooms and advanced centrally managed electronic locking hardware. MCA provides solutions such as RAVE panic button and Rave Alert from Motorola Solutions. From medical emergencies to critical incidents, Rave’s Panic Button application offers immediate one-touch activation for any type of emergency. These solutions enable schools to instantly trigger a 9-1-1 response or send smart notifications tailored to the specific type of event and location.
Lighting
Maintain adequate lighting in all areas of the school, including parking lots, playgrounds, and hallways to enhance visibility and deter criminal activity. Furthermore, proper lighting reduces the risk of accidents and injuries, such as trips and falls, by ensuring that pathways, stairwells, and outdoor areas are clearly illuminated. In emergency situations, such as evacuations during a power outage, backup lighting systems ensure that everyone can exit the building safely and efficiently.
Surveillance Camera
Install surveillance cameras in key areas such as entrances, hallways, and parking lots to monitor activities and deter potential threats. MCA partners with industry-leading companies such as Avigilon, Axis Communications, Bosch, and Hanwha Vision to offer a diverse range of surveillance cameras tailored to meet the specific needs of your school district. Our collaborations ensure that we provide state-of-the-art security solutions designed for various environments and security requirements. For help selecting the right camera for your needs, refer to our comprehensive guide here.
Cybersecurity
Firewalls and Filters
Use firewalls and content filters to protect against inappropriate content and cyber threats. Firewalls act as a barrier between the school network and the internet, blocking unauthorized access and preventing cyberattacks. Content filters help ensure a safe online environment by restricting access to inappropriate or harmful websites and content. Together, these tools safeguard sensitive information, maintain the integrity of the school’s digital infrastructure, and promote a secure learning environment. Regularly update antivirus software and security patches.
Digital Literacy
Educate students and staff about safe online practices, including the importance of strong passwords, recognizing phishing attempts, and reporting cyberbullying. In an age where cyber threats are increasingly sophisticated, digital literacy involves understanding how to protect personal information, recognize phishing attempts, and use technology securely. This education helps prevent data breaches and cyberbullying, fostering a culture of vigilance and informed usage of digital tools.
Data Protection
Schools handle vast amounts of personal data, including academic records, health information, and contact details, making them prime targets for cyberattacks and data breaches. Implementing robust data protection measures, such as encryption, access control, and regular backups, ensures the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of this information.
Transportation Safety
Bus Safety Protocols
Establish and enforce bus safety protocols, including proper seating, behavior expectations, and emergency procedures. Train bus drivers in safety practices and emergency response. Ensure communication channels are open between buses and base of operations. MotoTRBO radios from Motorola Solutions are a wonderful communication tool for school buses, ensuring clear and reliable communication between drivers, school administrators, and emergency responders. These radios enhance safety by allowing instant, real-time updates on bus locations, traffic conditions, and any incidents that may occur during transit. With features like GPS tracking and emergency alert capabilities, MotoTRBO radios provide an added layer of security, helping to ensure the well-being of students and staff on school buses.
Traffic Control
Manage traffic flow during drop-off and pick-up times with clear signage and supervision to ensure student safety. Utilize two-way radios from Motorola Solutions to help ensure safe and efficient operations. By enabling seamless communication between staff members, administrators, and security personnel, these radios help coordinate the flow of traffic and monitor the safety of students as they arrive and depart. Instant communication allows for quick response to any issues or emergencies that may arise, such as unauthorized individuals on campus or accidents in the pick-up/drop-off zone.
Safe Routes
Schools can collaborate with local authorities to ensure safe walking and biking routes to school by conducting joint safety assessments, improving infrastructure with sidewalks and bike lanes, implementing safety programs like walking school buses, and engaging the community through public meetings and partnerships. Additionally, they can request law enforcement support, advocate for traffic calming measures, and seek funding for safety initiatives. This multi-faceted approach enhances student safety and fosters a healthier, more active community.
Community Engagement
Communication Channels
Establish clear communication channels with parents and the community. Keep them informed about safety policies, incidents, and upcoming drills by utilizing mass notification systems to communicate. These systems allow schools to send alerts via multiple channels, including text messages, emails, voice calls, and social media, ensuring that students, staff, and parents receive timely and accurate updates. Additionally, mass notification systems can be used for routine communications like event reminders, schedule changes, and other important announcements, fostering better communication and coordination within the school community.
Partnerships
Partner with local law enforcement, fire departments, and health services to enhance school safety and emergency preparedness. This collaboration can include regular safety drills, joint planning sessions, and the development of comprehensive emergency response plans. Schools and local agencies can also share communication systems for real-time updates during crises. It is of the utmost importance to ensure ERCES related codes (IFC, NFPA, AHJ) are met to ensure proper coverage and communication in the event of an emergency.
About MCA
MCA is one of the largest and most trusted technology integrators in the United States, offering world-class voice, data, and security solutions that enhance the quality, safety, and productivity of customers, operations, and lives.
More than 65,000 customers trust MCA to provide carefully researched solutions for a safe, secure, and more efficient workplace. As your trusted advisor, we reduce the time and effort needed to research, install, and maintain the right solutions to make your workplace better.
Our team of certified professionals across the United States delivers a full suite of reliable technologies with a service-first approach. The MCA advantage is our extensive service portfolio to support the solution lifecycle from start to finish.
