A new alarm system was installed in all District 203 buildings by the company CENTEGIX to enhance emergency security, allowing staff to alert responders via an ID card button. The system was tested over winter break, and teachers and responders have since been trained to use it.
These alarms provide a more efficient way to receive help in emergency situations, according to Lou Cammiso, District 203’s Director of Safety and Security. The alarms were installed across district buildings from October to December of 2024.
On Feb. 5 and 6, all Naperville Central teachers received training on operating these alarms. Square-shaped sensors are installed in every classroom, and teachers have a button attached to their ID badge.
If the button is pressed three times, the sensor activates and the school’s Building Response Team – or administrators – would receive a notification on their phones with the location of the teacher. If the button is pressed eight times, the entire school will go into lockdown and 911 would be called.
“It’s an additional layer of safety,” Principal Jackie Thornton said. “If you’re in a situation where there isn’t somebody around that has a walkie talkie, using this would get help.”
User error is a legitimate concern about installing these alarms, according to Thornton.
“Our concern is that it accidentally gets hit,” Thornton said. “We’re trying to avoid that by [installing] two pieces over the ID so that [teachers] actually have to make a decision to move it and click it.”
The new system has significant advantages to traditional call buttons used in 203 classrooms.
“We’ve had call buttons for years that just call the office,” said Cammiso. “This button will notify so many people simultaneously – people in the building, the police department, administrators – using a combination of announcements and lights.”
Alarms will flash in different colors based on the scenario. The color red signifies there is an intruder, while the color yellow indicates severe weather. The color green announces an evacuation alert, and a white light will signal an all clear.
The system will cost $220,000 per year for five years, with a slightly larger upfront setup and installation fee, according to Cammiso.
“It’s everyone’s responsibility to keep everyone safe, and we’re really excited about [the alarms],” Cammiso said.
