SJSD looking into additional security improvements

By Jenna Wilson

St. Joseph School District leaders are continuing to make security a priority this school year, with some upgrades on the way, like metal detectors at sporting events, and others still in the works.

“We’ve received plenty of money over the last four or five years to help with security improvements within our buildings,” said Shannon Nolte, director of nonacademic student services. “We’re in a good position here and all our entrances are much more secure, but we’re still implementing ways to make sure they’re continuing to be improved, especially at our sporting events.”

Nolte said one area of improvement the community can look forward to at sporting events is the walk-through metal detectors, which will be implemented at the middle and high schools this fall.

There hasn’t been any concern with prohibited weapons being brought onto school property, but officials are considering adding weapon detection technology to the security system as well.

In addition, the district has been working with local companies that integrate software into camera systems at schools, which would assist personnel with detecting danger quickly.

“We already have all the cameras we need in place, so once we can get that software added we’ll have just about all the improvements we need,” Nolte added.

All security improvements are to prioritize student safety and comfort in school.

“The students are why we’re here, and our job is keeping them safe,” Nolte said. “The learning environment is what we’re about. If students and staff feel safe, then they can go about learning and teaching which is what our major focus is.”