The overview
The School Safety, Monitoring and Resources Department will ensure that all DISD schools and facilities are prepared with tools and technology systems to provide a safe environment, according to a district news release.
The systems, some of which are already implemented, include camera, keycards and readers, metal detectors, shatterproof window film, intercoms and a visitor identification system. The department will also oversee the use of clear backpacks, door alarms and door lock blocks.
Marlon Brooks, former principal at Dr. L.G. Pinkston Sr. Senior High School, will lead the new department as executive director, according to the news release.
Quote of note
“Safety is an ongoing process,” DISD Police Chief John Lawton said in the news release. “When we find a better way to do something, or better technology that we can implement to help keep our kids and our schools safe, we put that to use. It’s a constant, ongoing process.”
The specifics
One of the new safety measures is a silent alarm system that teachers and administrators can use to lock down a building in case of an emergency or threat, according to the news release. The app-based system will allow them to send school-specific safety alerts.
The district is also implementing the use of 3D maps of DISD schools to “better coordinate” with DISD police during emergencies. The police department plans to hire additional police officers, armed campus security officers and public safety officers.
The district has transitioned to a new digital radio system, which allows DISD police to communicate directly with the Dallas Police and Dallas Fire Rescue departments, according to the news release.
Related highlights
In August, the DISD board of trustees approved a plan to hire 167 new campus security officers to comply with an impending state law requiring armed guards at every Texas school.
The Level 3 security officers are trained and licensed to carry a gun through the Texas Department of Public Safety. They focus solely on security and emergencies without the power to make arrests.
