The Whitmer and CTC hallways are receiving a technology and security upgrade with the installation of a new PA system. This project began in July and was expected to be completed by late December. While the new clocks and bell system are technically up and running, the upgraded features that are intended to enhance the safety of the school have been temporarily overshadowed by bugs in the system and early use troubleshooting.

Developed by Advanced Network Devices, the new systems are IP devices with speakers that function as a paging system that can broadcast live or recorded messages throughout the day, overriding any background music or other audio of a lower priority. This technology is in every Whitmer main building and CTC classroom, as well as all hallways.

Students can expect many other new features from the systems as well, including messages , custom graphics, and images for informational and critical announcements moving across the high definition LCD displays. Combining a vivid HD display with a multi-color flasher bar or indicator ensures all eyes will be focused on your message. Principal Bell is incredibly excited about this new technology and what it will add to the school. Prior to winter break, he reflected on the changes and what he is looking forward to.

“The PA system that is in classrooms is outdated, and the clock system was updated several years ago,” Principal Bell said, “so this is just a combination of getting them up to current technology.”

The outdated system was becoming a concern, and the new one will provide better security for Whitmer. The new PA’s have a built-in light which will light up during emergencies. It has frequently been mistaken as a camera, but that is not the case.

“There’s a strobe light that’s in there, and some people think that it’s a camera, if there’s an emergency it will flash, it’s actually attached to our fire system,” Principal Bell added, “we have to make sure that this building is best up to date for our students, and continue modernizing it so it can feel secure and make sure that everything is safe.”

While Whitmer is being considered for potential building and campus reconstruction in the future, the number one priority is keeping the current students safe and secure.

“Even though the dream is a new Whitmer, we still have to make sure current students, while they’re here, are kept safe.”