The bill mandates that school districts enhance their emergency communication protocols to bolster school security. Specifically, it requires that all personnel assigned to school security positions be provided with two-way radios for direct communication with emergency responders, ensuring these radios operate on a dedicated channel separate from regular police frequencies. Additionally, school districts must establish procedures to inform parents and other relevant individuals about emergency situations through various communication methods, including phone calls, text messages, and mass emails. Furthermore, the bill stipulates that emergency communication systems must be tested for functionality on a monthly basis.
Moreover, the Commissioner of Education is tasked with developing strategies to encourage school districts to review and update their safety and security plans, ensuring clarity on who is responsible for contacting emergency services during an incident. The bill also promotes the implementation of communication measures for teachers and staff during school hours, utilizing various technologies such as classroom phones, portable radios, and intercom systems. Lastly, it encourages the exploration of new technologies to facilitate communication among essential personnel during emergencies, including the use of camera feeds and panic buttons linked directly to local police departments.