The Dos and Don'ts of K-12 School Security
Ensuring the safety of students and staff is a top priority for schools across Pennsylvania. With increasing threats to both physical and cyber security, schools must implement comprehensive solutions that effectively protect their communities. However, not all security strategies are created equal. In this blog, we’ll discuss the key dos and don’ts of school security, how the TechSperts at STCNtech can help address these challenges with physical security and cybersecurity solutions, and the grants that may be available to eligible schools.
DO: Prioritize Training and Awareness
A well-trained and highly alert staff and student body are the first line of defense against security threats. Schools should implement regular training sessions to ensure that everyone knows how to respond to emergencies.
DON’T: Rely Solely on Technology Without Planning
While security cameras and access controls are essential, they should be part of a broader crisis response plan. Schools must establish and regularly practice their emergency protocols.
DO: Invest in Effective Access Control Measures
Schools should use secure entry systems, visitor management platforms, and real-time monitoring to prevent unauthorized access. Verkada’s AI-powered surveillance solutions can provide enhanced threat detection.
DON’T: Ignore Cybersecurity Risks
A school’s security isn’t just about physical threats. Cyber attacks, phishing schemes, and ransomware incidents can disrupt learning environments and expose sensitive data.
Regular software updates, security patches, and robust firewalls are critical to maintaining cybersecurity.
DO: Use Smart Security Solutions with Integrated Capabilities
Schools should leverage AI-powered cameras, cloud-based monitoring, and automated alerts to ensure real-time threat detection and response. The TechSperts at STCNtech can deliver smart security solutions that integrate video surveillance, access control, and emergency response into a single, user-friendly platform.
How the TechSperts Security Solutions Can Help Secure YOU!
The TechSperts at STCNtech specializes in Security as a Service (SECaaS), providing schools with expert guidance on implementing cutting-edge security solutions. Their
expertise in physical and cyber security ensures that schools receive customized, scalable security solutions tailored to their unique needs that cover all the bases from perimeter monitoring, building access, internal tracking, and response - both physical and cyber!
Physical Security Solutions for Schools:
AI-Powered Surveillance Cameras: Detect potential threats in real time and provide 24/7 monitoring capabilities.
Access Control Systems: Ensure that only authorized personnel can enter school buildings.
Environmental Monitoring Sensors: Detect smoke, vape usage, and air quality issues.
Integrated Cybersecurity Protection: Our physical security solutions help safeguard digital assets with encrypted data storage and network security features in the camera
and access control system, plus keep the bad people out of your data center!
Cyber Security Solutions for Schools:
AI-Powered Remote Monitoring and Detection: Detect and Remediate potential threats in real time and provide 24/7 monitoring capabilities that are enhanced by our TechSpert monitoring and remediation team.
Backup and Disaster Recovery: Our BCDR systems and expertise are second to none. If the worst happens, our systems and expertise will ensure you are offline for a minimal amount of time and fully recoverable, with the ability to run your systems in our cloud while your infrastructure is remediated and rebuilt. We guarantee you will never be at risk of losing your data with us*.
24x7 Data Center Monitoring: Our team sees and responds to critical security issues all day, every day.
Integrated Cybersecurity Protection: Combining our Cyber and Physical security solutions ensures your school data and facilities are safe from attacks - both on premise and internet based.
With TechSpert guidance, you will get a fully managed security platform and service that allows school administrators and staff real, actionable data to make informed choices from. At the same time, being safe and secure from attacks.
Grants Available for School Security in Pennsylvania
Many schools hesitate to upgrade security due to budget constraints. However, several grant programs are available to help cover the costs of physical and cybersecurity enhancements that the TechSperts security solutions are eligible for.
Here are some key grants that Pennsylvania schools may be eligible for:
1. Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) School Safety and Security Grants
Provides funding for security equipment, behavioral health programs, and safety planning.
Includes both competitive and non-competitive grant opportunities.
Eligible expenses include security cameras, access control systems, and emergency response tools.
2. State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program
Designed to help schools and local governments strengthen cybersecurity defenses.
Supports asset intelligence, intrusion detection, and security awareness training.
Schools must apply through the Commonwealth for funding opportunities.
3. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Schools and Libraries Cybersecurity Pilot Program
Allocates $200 million for cybersecurity measures, including firewalls and threat detection.
Priority is given to schools serving low-income communities.
4. U.S. Department of Justice's School Violence Prevention Program (SVPP)
Funds security improvements, including the installation of surveillance cameras and access control systems.
Verkada solutions are eligible for funding under this program.
Let the TechSperts Secure Your School with Physical and Cyber Solutions
Investing in security doesn’t have to be a burden. With the right strategies, expert guidance from STCNtech, and Verkada’s cutting-edge solutions, schools can create safer environments while taking advantage of available grant funding.
Ready to enhance your organization's security posture? Contact STCNtech today. Our experts will assess your current security posture, understand your requirements, and recommend the most appropriate solutions from physical to cyber!
Don't leave the security of yoru students to chance.
Let STCNtech's certified professionals guide you toward a more secure future.
Contact us TODAY - 610-910-9347 - online@stcntech.com or click here
* Data loss guarantee assumes Security as a Service Level 3 Plan that follows all guidelines.
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