SIA Examines Use of Safety Tech to Facilitate Productive and Safe Schools

​Content from school safety sessions to be released for assessment by schools

SILVER SPRING, Md. – The Security Industry Association (SIA) took part in a roundtable discussion held at the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy on Nov. 20 by Congressman Todd Rokita, R, Ind., Chairman of the U.S. House Subcommittee on Early Childhood, Elementary and Secondary Education.

The purpose of the event was to discuss “how schools can utilize cutting-edge safety technology to facilitate a productive and safe learning environment.”

A cross-section of school security solution developers from the industry participated in the event, led by SIA members Allegion, ASSA ABLOY, Stanley Security and Tyco Integrated Security. SIA was accompanied by partner organizations thePartner Alliance for Safer Schools andthe Secure Schools Alliance, through which SIA works alongside law enforcement and education officials to encourage effective use of school security technology. The roughly 70 participants also included Indiana state representatives, safety professionals, law enforcement officers and school board members.

“We learned that the security industry, law enforcement, and school officials need to communicate better with each other to understand the effective technologies available, best practices to utilize, and the unique challenges present in a learning environment that may include a public building. Working together is how we prevent tragedies,” Rep. Rokita said.

“We commend Chairman Rokita for his leadership in hosting such a timely and relevant discussion, and we were very pleased that the security industry was included. The discussion shed light on urgent unmet needs for basic facility security in legacy school structures, as well as many positive things our communities are doing to address it that can be an example for others,” SIA Government Relations Director Jake Parker said.

According to Rep. Rokita’s office, a summary of the roundtable, including content from breakout sessions as well as participant feedback, soon will be made available to schools so they can take advantage of the discussion.

SIA continues to encourage the adoption of best practices, strengthening partnerships among the security industry, education and law enforcement communities, reviving federal grant assistance for school security technology and the adoption of effective state initiatives to make learning environments safer for our children.

About the Security Industry Association (SIA)

The Security Industry Association (SIA) (https://www.securityindustry.org) is the leading trade association for electronic and physical security solution providers, with more than 600 innovative member companies representing more than 350,000 security leaders and experts who shape the future of the security industry. SIA protects and advances its members’ interests by advocating pro-industry policies and legislation at the federal and state levels; creating open industry standards that enable integration; advancing industry professionalism through education and training; opening global market opportunities; and collaboration with other like-minded organizations. As a proud sponsor of ISC Events expos and conferences, and owner of the Securing New Ground® conference, SIA ensures its members have access to top-level buyers and influencers, as well as unparalleled learning and network opportunities.