In recent years, K-12 access control systems have become a vital component in comprehensive school security systems. Access control solutions eliminate security vulnerabilities that metal keys and locks create and allow school administrators to monitor activity around school entryways and exits. Traditional access control credentials include key cards, fobs, PINs, and even biometric facial or fingerprint scans.

But another type of access control is beginning to trickle down to the school level: mobile-based credentials that utilize digital keys stored in an individual’s smartphone. What’s driving the mobile movement? Increased encryption, easy scalability, and convenience, for starters. Keep reading to learn more about what a smartphone-based access system has to offer Waco, TX schools. 

In the technology world, there’s always been a balance between proprietary technology and technology based on open standards. In many cases, proprietary solutions lock organizations into one vendor or a set of technologies that may have limited compatibility with other solutions. While open solutions are not a panacea for every application, and proprietary ones are not by definition inferior, interoperability is a desirable and often necessary attribute of any technology solution.

If your Rio Grande Valley, TX district is evaluating a new or upgraded school surveillance camera solution, interoperability should be a key criterion for your system. Today’s security solutions are integrated, and you want to invest in a surveillance solution that can interoperate with access control, emergency management, and other safety and security systems on your campuses. Keep reading below to learn about ONVIF, interoperability, and how it can help you get the most from your school surveillance solutions.

The responsibilities of keeping your Memorial, TX schools safe are all-encompassing. You and your staff must keep a constant vigil for any sign of trouble ranging from fights and teenage attempts at circumventing the system to more serious threats. It is a heavy load ensuring the safety and security of the local children. Such a critical undertaking should not be left only to humans whose eyes and attention spans are fallible.

While ongoing specialized training provides your staff with sharpened skills, they cannot keep watch on every nuance or subtle clue. Investing in automated school security systems relieves some of the high-pressure burdens from your staff. With less need to account for every student’s actions, they can concentrate on performing their immediate duties.

Read more below to learn how AI, sensors, and control management systems enable better detection, prevention, and situation resolution.

With lots of discussion in Washington about infrastructure, we shouldn’t forget that schools are just as important as roads, bridges, and broadband. The closure of schools with the pandemic brought home just how essential the safe operation of schools is to the fabric of every community.

Fortunately, schools in Texas don't have to wait for the dust to settle on a federal infrastructure plan. The last Coronavirus relief bill (CRRSA) provided an additional $54.3 billion in aid to elementary and secondary schools. And that funding is applicable to much-needed K-12 security upgrades for schools in San Antonio and other cities around the state.

That money can be used for all types of security infrastructure improvements in schools. As school administrators and district security officials explore how to fully reopen schools safely this fall, let’s take a closer look at some of the most valuable school security solutions below.