State Grant Will Enhance Lynbrook School Security

Lynbrook was one of 49 school districts across New York to receive money from a state grant to enhance security across all of the district's buildings.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced the grants on Monday, totaling $34 million as part of the $2 billion Smart Schools Bond Act, which was approved by voters in 2014.

"These critical investments in modern technology for classrooms across the state will expand educational opportunity, help ensure safety, increase student engagement, boost achievement, and close the digital divide," Cuomo said. "The Smart Schools program provides students with the necessary skills and technology to grow and thrive in today's economy."

The Lynbrook School District is receiving $838,978, which is all going to security improvements. According to superintendent Dr. Melissa Burak, the majority of the money (just over $600,000) for networked security features. These include establishing a separate security network, high-resolution cameras for all doors, swipe entrance systems on select doors, lock down/lock out strobe lights at all schools and door-ajar alarms.

The district will also be adding a lock-down panic system in all schools. There will also be nearly $242,000 spent on vestibules with visitor management systems.

"The safety of our students and staff is taken very seriously in Lynbook," Burak said. "As a district, we are constantly reviewing and updating our procedures and processes to ensure a safe educational environment. The projects that will be funded through the Smart Schools Investment Plan will further strengthen our safety plans and we are thankful the money has finally been approved."

Photo: Lynbrook School District