Board approves security cameras – Lehigh Valley Press

By Susan Rumble

Special to the Press

Parkland School Board Directors approved the purchase of security cameras for eight new buses from Pro-Vision Video Systems at a cost of $19,442.

Dr. Anthony Naradko, director of safety, security and school services, reported the bus cameras provide audio and visual feed and are used for student discipline, investigations and driver accountability.

He added the devices track speed and can be used in investigations.

At an October committee meeting, Naradko said all red light violations are referred to police with whom the video footage is shared.

Naradko noted in Upper Macungie Township, police are stationed around morning bus pick up stops to ensure drivers are obeying traffic laws.

He said South Whitehall police have expressed interest in participating in that program, which is known as Operation Safe Stop.

In another matter, the board approved the purchase of 19 indoor and 12 outdoor cameras from TWG Security for the Operations Center at a cost of $47,610.

Moving to a different topic, the board authorized a contract with DBM Investigations and Consulting to provide professional services to verify student residency within the district at $65 per hour.

Naradko said the district currently uses a retired police officer to investigate residency issues but with Parkland growth, the need for this work has increased.

Families who are affected by nonresidency decisions are given rights to due process and a grace period before a bill is sent to them.

Anyone giving false information about residency is assessed a $300 fine plus a bill for the amount of time spent at Parkland as a nonresident.

Looking at another item of business, the board authorized a contract with KRE Security to provide professional services on district properties during after-school events.

KRE will provide unarmed guards at $39.17 per hour.