Hardin County Schools Launches Raptor Safety Suite with Panic Alerts, Visitor Screening
A new school safety initiative has been launched in Hardin County Schools through the Raptor Safety Suite. This system, approved in May 2025, is designed to enhance security within schools by implementing various safety features.
Overview of the Raptor Safety Suite
The Raptor Safety Suite includes several critical components aimed at improving safety protocols. The system installation began in September 2025, followed by ongoing staff training starting in October.
Key Features of the Raptor Safety Suite
- Panic Alert Badge: Staff can summon help for emergencies like fights or medical issues.
- Mobile App: This app allows for various functions, including team assistance requests.
- Ceiling-Mounted Beacons: These devices provide essential alerts even in areas with poor cellular coverage.
- Visitor Management: Identities are verified through driver’s license scans against national registries.
District staff emphasized that the system is synchronized with student information software. This ensures that employee and roster changes are updated automatically every night.
Alert Types
The Raptor system is designed with five preconfigured alert types:
- Soft Lockdown
- Hard Lockdown
- Evacuation
- Shelter-in-Place
- Hold Mode
The Hold Mode keeps students in classrooms during brief incidents that require medical responses. This feature is particularly crucial for maintaining student safety.
Training and Reunification Initiatives
As part of the safety enhancements, the district has established memoranda of understanding (MOUs) with three reunification sites for off-site evacuations. An administrator training session and mock reunification drill are scheduled for January 2026, with Raptor trainers facilitating the event.
Training is crucial for the successful implementation of the Raptor Safety Suite. Board members expressed support for the initiative, recognizing its necessity despite concerns regarding cost. Many agreed that the potential to prevent a single incident justifies the investment.
Addressing Challenges
Minor deployment issues have been noted, such as students treating panic badges like toys. District technical staff are collaborating with Raptor to customize settings and minimize false alerts.
Overall, Hardin County Schools aims to prioritize the safety of its students and staff through this advanced safety system. The Raptor Safety Suite represents a significant step towards ensuring a secure learning environment.
