Texas Announces Funding to TEA to Improve Safety
Is your school fully prepared for unexpected scenarios such as intruder, fire, or other emergency situations?
On October 27, 2022, the Texas Education Agency (TEA) was granted an additional $400 million to assist schools with replacing and upgrading safety measures. Funds from the 2022-2025 School Safety Standards Formula Grant are to allow local education agencies “to implement the new safety standards application to Chapter 61, Sub-chapter CC, 61.1031 of Commissioner’s Rules.”
TAC Chapter 61, Sub-chapter 61.1031 states all exterior master key boxes and the keys they contain must function properly. It also articulates that two-way radio systems must operate effectively within the instructional facility, and they must effectively communicate with response services.
Exterior Key Lock Boxes
The grant allows for an exterior, secure master key lock box with two-lock access. Knox Rapid Access Solutions provides multiple options that give emergency responders immediate access to a building.
One solution by Knox is Knox Entry for Schools, a customizable and collaborative package for instructional facilities and law enforcement. It comes with training, management software, an exterior lock box, four keys, and four compact key control systems.
Two-way Radio Systems
A bi-directional amplifier (BDA) is a signal boosting solution designed to enhance in-building radio frequency coverage. This increases coverage for responders to be able to communicate efficiently where radio signals may normally be weak or unreliable.
Texas School Safety Grants and Resources
School Safety Grant Programs: https://tea.texas.gov/finance-and-grants/grants/grants-administration/school-safety-related-grant-programs
School Safety Grant Opportunities: https://tea4avalonzo.tea.state.tx.us/GrantOpportunities/forms/GrantProgramSearch.aspx
For more information, reach out to your nearest Koetter Fire Protection location and speak to a representative today. Disclaimer: Each location is independently owned and managed. Services and products may differ.
