Over the summer and early fall, work started on significant safety and security upgrades at our schools, made possible by a budget extension approved by the Monroe School District School Board last spring. This work supports Goal 2 of our strategic plan, which focuses on ensuring all students are safe, known, and supported.
The safety & security upgrades include:
- Additional safety fencing around both Maltby Elementary and Monroe High School. When finished, the fencing will help control who enters and exits these campuses, increasing security for students and staff.
- Security cameras have been installed in vulnerable areas at every school in the district. These cameras allow staff to monitor activities in real time and discourage unauthorized activity, helping to keep everyone safe.
- Vape detection devices are being installed in high school bathrooms to alert staff when vaping occurs, enabling a quick response and promoting a healthier environment for students. Due to supply chain issues, the installation was delayed, but it will be completed by the end of this week.
- Continued work toward establishing a secured single point of entry at all schools, which will help staff monitor who enters and exits the buildings, ensuring controlled access and enhanced safety.
- An upgraded visitor management system that requires all visitors to present a photo ID, which is scanned to conduct background checks before entry. This upgrade helps staff track all visitors and enhances our ability to maintain a safe and secure environment.
These improvements are a big step toward making our schools safer. We’re grateful to the School Board for making this possible for our students and staff!