Main Entrances in Utica Schools to Get Security Boost

With $350,000 already earmarked for camera equipment, plans to upgrade the security of main entrances in the Utica school district are now underway.

Taking into account the results of recent security assessments, Utica Community Schools plans to purchase and install several pieces of new equipment that will allow the main entrances of all elementary and junior high schools to remain locked during the school day.

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The Utica board of education Jan. 14 approved $350,000 to purchase security camera equipment that, combined with an audio component and latch-release function, will allow main office personnel to control the entry of visitors to the school.

The cameras will provide a visual of the visitor seeking entry, while the audio portion will give office personnel an opportunity to ask the visitor’s reason for being at the school prior to allowing entry. If the visitor is approved, office personnel will then be able unlock the main entrance electronically.

The district’s high schools currently feature security cameras and visitors are either greeted at the main entrance or directed through the main office prior to entering the core area of the school. Full-time security officers also staff all Utica high schools.

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The full cost of this project is unknown at this time as bids are still out on the audio and electronic latch portions. Installation will begin once the materials are available.