Dothan, Ala.(WDNews) — Dothan City Schools is stepping up campus security with the introduction of Flock Safety license plate recognition (LPR) technology. This advanced system is designed to identify potential threats and ensure a safer environment for students and staff.
The cameras, capable of scanning and reading license plates, will provide real-time information to security personnel. The Automated License Plate Recognition (ALPR) system can identify stolen vehicles, wanted suspects, and potential sex offenders, delivering vital information to school authorities before issues arise.
“This solution allows us to manually input information to make it more ‘safety-specific’ to our district,” said Steve Parrish, Dothan City Schools’ District Safety Coordinator.
The technology will also alert School Resource Officers (SROs) of suspicious vehicles on campus and provide administrators with live and recorded video feeds.
“Safety and security are paramount at Dothan City Schools,” said Dr. Dennis Coe, Superintendent of Dothan City Schools. “This technology will help us pinpoint possible security risks instantaneously, alert proper authorities when cameras perceive a threat, and potentially thwart dangerous activity on our campuses. We appreciate the Board of Education for approving the technology that will no doubt lead to a safer learning environment for our students and staff.”
The $98,000 project, which includes installation and equipment costs, is funded through state Advancement and Technology Funds designated for school safety. The Dothan City Schools Board of Education approved the initiative during its December meeting.
Parrish noted that the cameras are expected to be installed across district schools by early 2025.
