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District 79 upgrades security in its schools

When parents and community members visit the Fremont Elementary District 79 schools this year, they will experience new safety protocols for visitors.

For example, doors to the school offices at all three buildings now are locked. Receptionists will electronically unlock office doors when parents or visitors press a buzzer.

Allow extra time to arrive as the system takes additional time to process visitors.

Once inside an office, visitors will be asked for their driver’s license or state identification card. The ID will be scanned into a computer system designed to keep registered sex offenders away from schools, among other benefits.

More than 8,000 schools and facilities nationwide already rely on this web-based technology to keep students and staff safe.

Before being released from the front office, visitors must exchange their identification card with a visitor lanyard.

Other security-enhancing changes include:

Ÿ A new telephone system implemented during the summer that provides specific geographic pinpointing of 911 calls for first-responders, and enhanced communication capabilities within the classroom.

Ÿ Push-to-talk devices for key staff that allow for an alternate communication mechanism and instant communications for staff members working with students in areas away from landlines.

Ÿ A new security camera system, which provides high-definition, digital coverage of district facilities.

Ÿ Enhanced LED parking lot lighting.

Ÿ Improved school entrance ways.

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