Three Rivers Community Schools in Michigan recently upgraded its video cameras due to unreliable equipment and outdated technology.
and now wide-angle cameras are priorities. When evaluating vendors, he said he considers cost
as well as software ease of use. “I’d say the AngelTrax software is pretty easy for myself, plus for operators and supervisors, even schools to operate. Especially now with connectivity of it.” he said, adding that before they would have to pull the footage manually when the bus came back to the lot, whereas now it can be accessed remotely. “I’ve looked at other [vendors] and always wel- come talking to other people, but compared to price and quality, I haven’t found another option for us yet.” Schrader noted that automatically downloading
footage at her staff’s discretion was important as well as footage clarity, sound, blurring and zooming capabili- ties. She reiterated the importance of customer service, followed by having a history of the footage and the ca- pacity to upgrade systems without having to replace the units as important aspects when selecting a vendor. “Most importantly it is to protect our students and
staff,” she said of installing cameras in the first place. “The threat of violence or intruders seem to be an ev- er-increasing concern.” Schrader noted that the cameras bring an added layer
of security. “I believe when students know there are cameras on the buses that it elevates the level of behav- ior expectation,” she said. “In speaking with families,
44 School Transportation News • OCTOBER 2024
they appreciate knowing that everyone is held to a high-level expectation.” Three Rivers also updated its camera systems in its new transportation facility. Schrader noted many of the employees arrive at predawn hours or stay till after dark. “The building cameras seem to help make us all a little more comfortable,” she shared, adding that the previous facility had three cameras whereas the new one has 24. Redman noted that the addition of wide-angle lens has been a plus for Kanawha County. He noted that one wide angle lenes replaces two cameras, now allowing the district to have five to eight cameras covering the entire interior and exterior of the bus. He noted that having cameras is invaluable to schools as they can view full footage of all interactions that happen on the bus. Another important feature, he said, is the sound quality. He noted that sound is extremely important if there’s bullying, a fight or an incident that needs audio. “The AngelTrax systems have amazing sound,” he said, adding the camera systems are on all of the districts 150 school buses plus 50 spares. Schrader said there are several reliable providers
available when it comes to technology. “It is important to check references and if possible, visit districts to see the equipment in real-time applications and not just a demo on a laptop,” she advised.
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