The new crisis alert technology, Centegix, is a school safety system that equips teachers and staff with a badge featuring a clicker, allowing them to report emergencies, summon help, and alert the entire building quickly and effectively.
During the Tucson Unified School District board meeting on Tuesday, the board voted unanimously 5-0 to approve this new technology.
TUSD Superintendent Dr. Gabriel Trujillo believes this system is a positive step forward.
“Every single employee in the district will have a touch-sensitive fob on the back of their ID badge, similar to what you use for keyless entry,” explained Trujillo.
“In terms of security and safety for students and staff, this represents a significant advancement,” he added.
Last week, the Catalina Foothills School District also voted to adopt this new technology, expressing excitement about its implementation.
Designed to keep students and staff safer on school campuses when there’s an emergency.
“We really like it because it gives our families peace of mind and creates a safe and responsive environment for our students and staff. Learning can’t take place unless they feel safe at school,” said Communications Director Julie Farbarik.
Jennifer Reyes, a parent in TUSD, shared her relief knowing this technology will be introduced in her daughter’s school.
“Our job is to keep our kids safe, both at home and in school, so it makes me feel more comfortable sending my kids out. They deserve to be educated and safe at the same time,” explained Reyes.