Hardin County Schools Launches Raptor Safety Suite with Panic Alerts and Drills
Hardin County Schools recently introduced the Raptor Safety Suite, a comprehensive safety system designed to enhance security across its campuses. This initiative, approved in May 2025, marks a significant step in the district’s commitment to student safety.
Implementation Timeline
The rollout of the Raptor Safety Suite began in September 2025, with staff training commencing in phases starting in October. School resource officers (SROs), Lieutenant Mark Ellingham and Officer Larry Robinson, provided an overview of the system’s key components during a recent board meeting.
Key Features of the Raptor Safety Suite
- Panic Alert Badge: Enables staff to quickly summon assistance in emergencies.
- Mobile Application: Facilitates real-time communication and alerts among staff.
- Ceiling-Mounted Beacons: Ensure functionality even in areas with limited cellular service.
Lieutenant Ellingham highlighted the app’s team assist mode, which helps in managing various incidents, from fights to medical emergencies. The system can issue five critical alert types:
- Soft lockdown
- Hard lockdown
- Evacuation
- Shelter-in-place
- Hold mode for medical responses
These alerts provide vital location information and enhance communication within the school during emergencies.
Visitor Management and Synchronization
The Raptor system includes an advanced visitor management feature. It scans driver’s licenses to check against national registries, providing an added layer of security. Customizable bans and authorized exceptions can also be implemented easily.
Additionally, the system syncs with the district’s student information software overnight, ensuring that any changes to staff or student rosters are automatically updated.
Reunification Module
A crucial aspect of the Raptor Safety Suite is the reunification module, designed for off-site evacuations. The district has agreements with three designated reunification sites. An eight-hour administrator training session is scheduled for January, led by Raptor trainers. A mock reunification drill will also be conducted to ensure preparedness.
Investment in Safety
The board acknowledged the costs associated with the Raptor Safety Suite but emphasized its necessity in today’s schools. Several board members mentioned that preventing even a single incident would validate the expenditure. While there have been minor deployment issues, such as students misusing panic badges, the district’s technology staff is actively working with Raptor to fine-tune the system and minimize false alarms.
In conclusion, Hardin County Schools is taking substantial measures to bolster safety protocols with the Raptor Safety Suite, showcasing a commitment to protecting students and staff alike.
