Santa Rosa schools increasing security

MILTON — The Santa Rosa County School District has been increasing security measures since the recent rise in shootings in surrounding public places in the United States. The latest feature, called "closed access control," is a new security monitoring system that promises to prevent unauthorized personnel from entering a school.

District superintendent Tim Wyrosdick said this device will go in all schools across the county and  would greatly enhance security of the schools.

"We felt like securing the facility for the students and faculty was top priority," Wyrosdick said.

District director of security Daniel Hahn said now all doors to the school will remain locked during the school day. 

"Visitors approach the font entrance of a school and push a button located to the right side of the entryway next to the mounted camera," Hahn said.  "You will be greeted by a school employee, asked to present a photo ID to the camera, and state the purpose of your visit." 

Hahn said once the visitor receives approval, the door will then be unlocked. Visitors will go to the front office on to the next security measure, according to Hahn — obtaining a visitor's badge. Finally, visitors will go with an escort to their destination. 

"At any time should a faculty or staff member, or even a student see someone on campus without a badge they should immediately report them to someone," Hahn said.

Jay High School posted on its Facebook account Dec. 18 about the new security measure.

"We ask for your patience and understanding concerning this new protocol, as our number one goal is to ensure the safety and well-being of our students and staff members at our school."

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This article originally appeared on Santa Rosa Press Gazette: Santa Rosa schools increasing security