After receiving a grant from the state for all districts to implement silent panic systems for staff members, Mansfield ISD implemented various new protocols this year, and the new Crisis Alert badges and drill announcement system. Ms. Britney Fortner, Director of Safety, Security, and Threat Management for MISD expects the new system to improve safety in the district.
“While MISD had technology in place for emergency notifications, the district was seeking a device that could easily be implemented for substitute teachers in addition to full-time district employees,” Ms. Fortner said. “This technology allows for that.”
Planning for the new systems began in the spring of 2023 after MISD received the Silent Panic Alert Technology Grant from the state. The district worked with Centegix, a technology and security company, to distribute the wearable silent panic system.
“The device is discreet and easily accessible to ensure staff have the ability to receive assistance at any time throughout the school day,” Ms. Fortner said.
The badges can provide the exact location of disturbances and reach all the way into campus parking lots. The badges and coordinating Silent Panic Alert Technology (SPAT) also accommodate visual and hearing-impaired staff.
“It increases the safety,” Facilities Associate Principal John Contreras said. “It allows us to have a quicker response time and know the exact location where the incident is happening.”
The CrisisAlert Badge features a panic button, and each number of presses corresponds to a color code that broadcasts to staff to secure different responses. Lower-level codes can report cell phone-related issues, whereas a higher number of presses can lock down the school.
“Inadvertent things are going to happen,” Mr. Contreras said. “We just have to respond appropriately when they do happen. We have to assume it’s the real thing.”
The Silent Panic Alert Technology features flashing lights, an automated voice and screen pop-ups. It also speeds up response time in extreme emergencies.
“Standard Response Protocols have not changed, the panic alert technology simply adds another form of communication for staff in emergency situations,” Ms. Fortner said.
