Security Cameras, Gates Added At Centennial Schools

WARMINSTER, PA —When students return to school for the upcoming year, they will notice that many of the buildings in the Centennial School District received more than a coat of paint over the summer.

And improved security was also among the priorities this summer, school officials said.

Schools Superintendent Dana Bedden recently told parents about several upgrades and renovations throughout the school district, including bolstering security.

He said that several schools are having additional school cameras added in strategic locations to improve facility security measures. The superintendent did not reveal which schools received more security cameras.

The superintendent and school board worked over the past year to heighten security at the district's schools, including hiring a former police chief to lead security operations.

"We have increased the number of school security personnel versus the old school monitor model," Bedden told parents.

He said that school security staff are required to complete the PA ACT 67 training (School Security Basic Training Course). In addition to safety, the course provides a knowledge base for school security staff to build a rapport with students and staff.

Meanwhile, the superintendent added, that all schools have undergone summer cleaning in preparation for the return of students and staff.

He then went on to list work at six schools over the summer break:

• Willow Dale Elementary School: The back playground fence was installed.
• Log College Middle School: The building of the outdoor classroom project has started and should be completed before the school year starts.
• Klinger Middle School: The mural wall was built in preparation for the upcoming painting by an artist and students.
• McDonald Elementary School: Tested a new gym floor product that provides a quicker preparation and dry time in order to prepare it quickly for student use.
• Davis Elementary School: Hallway security gates were purchased and installed.
• William Tennent High School: The Student Parking Lot Repair Project, which began July 26, was expected to be completed last week.