Lincoln County Schools (LCS) in North Carolina has significantly upgraded its security infrastructure with the implementation of Genetec™ Security Center. This move involves the integration of video surveillance, access control, and intrusion detection systems across its various educational and support facilities, providing a cohesive security solution.
The district encompasses over 11,000 students across 23 schools, which include elementary, middle, and high schools, along with a technology and an alternative school. Additional facilities cater to district-wide services such as nutrition, transportation, and maintenance. Faced with aging security technology, LCS sought to modernise its systems for enhanced protection and efficiency.
LCS prioritised a flexible security platform capable of unifying various systems and allowing for the retention of existing hardware. “Genetec™ Security Center offered us a great option,” stated Steven Hoyle, Chief Technology Officer for Lincoln County Schools. “We have the features we need in one solution that’s easy to use and fits our budget.”
The goal was to develop an open and unified platform to streamline management of the district’s video, access control, and intrusion systems. They aimed to connect other operational systems, such as their human resources database, to boost process automation.
Initial upgrades were implemented at the high schools, unifying video surveillance and access control systems through Genetec Security Center, complemented by Radionix intrusion detection. Upon completion, an extensive network of cameras, doors, and intrusion sensors will integrate via Genetec’s open architecture, empowering LCS to retain current hardware while transitioning to advanced technology over time.
“Genetec™ Security Center supports a wide range of third-party technologies, and that’s been a huge bonus for us,” Hoyle noted. The district can now balance improving security with cost management, updating at a suitable pace. This flexibility allows for re-evaluating needs and making informed decisions.
LCS has further enhanced its security processes by digitising operations and integrating Microsoft Active Directory with its intrusion detection system through Security Center. This connection automates cardholder security privileges as personnel change roles or locations within the district. Automating access adjustments for new or departing employees has significantly reduced false alarms, as Hoyle explained: “Now, staff can badge in during set hours, and the intrusion system is automatically armed or disarmed. We’re seeing far fewer false alarms and fewer calls to law enforcement and our administrators.”
As ongoing upgrades progress, LCS works with Genetec to expand its security capabilities and connect additional systems. This continued collaboration is aimed at facilitating more rapid and coordinated communication across the district, enhancing overall security effectiveness.
