Camera, intercom systems placed at entry ways

Northwest R-1 officials are having camera/intercom systems installed at the front entrances of all their school buildings except the two containing Northwest’s oldest students, those in seventh grade and above.

“We do not intend to do it at the high school or the middle school,” Superintendent Paul Ziegler said. “We’re doing it in nine of our 11 buildings. “The system allows the image of anyone who wants to enter the buildings to be shown in administrative offices. The intercom gives school officials the opportunity to speak with visitors prior to electronically opening the door lock.

Kevin Carl, the Northwest assistant superintendent of funds and facilities, said entrance monitoring systems have been installed in eight of the nine buildings.

Carl explained the system gives school personnel the ability to deny entry to anyone if concerns arise about allowing that person in the building.