Oakwood schools embracing innovation for safety
At Oakwood Schools, safeguarding our students is not just a priority—it’s a foundation for all we aspire to achieve.
Recognizing the evolving challenges in maintaining a secure learning environment, we’ve embarked on a transformative journey, bolstered by a substantial investment of $750,000 from grants and local funding sources. This commitment has enabled us to significantly upgrade our security systems, setting a new standard for educational institutions.
We’ve partnered with Verkada, a leader in advanced security technology, to overhaul our decade-old camera system. This collaboration marks us as early adopters among school districts, introducing hospital-grade, state-of-the-art security cameras into our educational setting.
These innovative devices offer extensive security measures, including facial and vehicle recognition, and advanced search functions to aid with the efficiency of investigations. With the ability to upload a photo and flag “persons of interest,” our system is designed to promptly alert us to their presence, ensuring unparalleled safety for our students, staff and visitors. This feature can also help review footage to locate lost items faster.
Enhancing our entry protocols, we’ve implemented intercom and buzzer systems, allowing for remote access control and visitor verification, including a mandatory background check process for all visitors, contractors and service providers. This visitor management system requires photos and state-issued ID checks before entry, ensuring a safe and monitored environment through a soft background check. Our move to keyless entry for staff further secures our facilities while streamlining access. Simply put, we have control and visibility over who enters our facilities in real time.
But our dedication to safety extends beyond physical measures. Oakwood Schools is committed to nurturing thriving learners by fostering a culture of safety that supports academic achievement and personal growth. Research from the American Psychological Association highlights the crucial link between a secure environment and student success, underscoring our holistic approach to education.
In our classrooms, we prioritize strong, positive relationships between teachers and students, establishing a foundation of trust and support. This sense of belonging is crucial for a welcoming and safe learning atmosphere. Our efforts extend to promoting peer connections through extracurricular activities, with over 85% of our students participating in sports, clubs, and other group endeavors. These connections foster character, teamwork and a sense of community.
As we implement these cutting-edge security measures, our focus remains on creating an environment where students can excel academically and personally. Oakwood Schools believes in the power of a balanced approach to safety, combining technological advancements with emotional support and community engagement.
By investing in both the physical and social-emotional well-being of our students, Oakwood Schools is not just enhancing the learning experience; we’re shaping a future where every student is empowered to succeed and thrive. As we look forward to the continued integration of innovative safety solutions, our commitment to the holistic development of our students stands as a testament to our dedication to excellence in education.