AV and Security
Audio/Visual and Safety & Security Upgrades
Latest News
Phase 1
The first of the 15 projects planned for 2025 have started. Work will continue through 2025. Schools under construction or recently completed have already had new audio/visual (AV) technology installed and are only having updated security installed.
- Rainier Beach High School: security only
- Roosevelt High School
- TOPS K-8 (Seward)
- Kimball Elementary School: security only
- James Baldwin Elementary School: security only
- Montlake Elementary Schools: security only
- Asa Mercer International Middle School: security only
- John Rogers Elementary School: security only
- Emerson Elementary School
- Sand Point Elementary School
- Pathfinder K-8 (Cooper)
- Madrona Elementary School
- Highland Park Elementary School
- Hawthorne Elementary School
- Martin Luther King, Jr., Elementary School (Brighton)
Future Phases
With voter approval of Building Excellence VI (BEX VI), funding is allocated to continue with additional schools. The priority list and schedule are still being determined.
About the Project
The Buildings, Technology, and Academics Capital Levy (BTA V) was approved by voters in 2022. It included $37 million to upgrade audio/visual (AV) equipment in schools and classrooms and $10 million for safety and security improvements in schools across the district.
AV upgrades include repair or replacement of classroom electronic equipment that supports student learning, such as classroom and school sound systems, projectors, presentation station carts, whiteboards, and document cameras.
Safety and security improvements include:
- Districtwide Emergency Notification System (DWConnect)— the central Safety & Security Office will have the ability to secure multiple schools if there is an emergency.
- Access Control System — the school office or central Safety & Security can control door locks remotely (lock and unlock).
- New security cameras.
- Door and intrusion alarms.
- Card key readers and intercom systems at main entrance and other entrances identified.
Installing equipment for both types of improvements may include:
- low-voltage and electrical changes and additions,
- hazardous materials evaluation and abatement where necessary,
- architecture considerations for buildings designated as landmarks,
- necessary construction based on configurations needed for each school and classroom.
Combined project: These two efforts have been combined into one project. Instead of separate projects with similar installation needs, we can build an efficient plan to do both the AV work and the safety and security work at the same time.
Avoiding duplication of work will make funding go further, allowing more projects to be done with the funding available. And, by doing all the work at one time, there will be less disruption to schools and learning.
FAQ
Is this project still planned?
Yes. Phase 1 work has begun and will continue through the rest of 2025.
When will my classroom and school be done?
The 15 schools in phase 1 are shown above. Future phases are planned with the final goal of covering all schools. Scheduling of future phases is still being planned.
How will we be notified if work is being done at our school?
The project team will communicate with your principal and ask that the information be shared with all staff.
What is the impact of A/V installation on my room and my teaching?
- Modifications may be made to the projectors, screens, sound systems, and whiteboards in your classrooms. Protective coverings will be placed over works in progress.
- Continuity of existing equipment: Each space will maintain a computer connection to the existing speakers. Temporary solutions will be offered for whiteboards and projectors.
- Working Hours: Installation and construction (as needed) will be conducted after school hours to minimize disruption.
What training options will I have for new equipment?
- Instructions will be available on-site and on a future website. Most new equipment will retain similar core functionality in comparison to existing equipment.
Timeline (Phase 1)
- Design: Begins August 2024
- Permitting: Begins October 2024
- Construction and Installation: Begins February 2025
- Phase 1 Complete: Spring 2026
Project Team
Project Manager: David L. Jackson, dljackson2@seattleschools.org 206-252-0674
Design-Build Owner Advisor: Turner & Townsend Heery
Design-Build Firm: Valley Electric
Project Charter
Our Mission
To enhance the learning experience and safety of all K-12 students by integrating state-of-the-art audio-visual, intercom and security solutions across Seattle Public Schools. Through collaboration with SPS, trusted contractors, and expert vendors, we are committed to delivering high-quality, future-ready technology that fosters interactive learning, ensures a secure environment, and aligns with SPS standards of excellence.
Our Values
Teamwork/Collaboration/Communications/Service We will work together as “One Team” to foster a communicative and collaborative working environment.
Honest/Integrity/Trust/Respect We will be respectful of each other and will incorporate a high level of honesty, integrity, trust to build positive working relationships with all stakeholders.
Effectiveness/Competence/Simplicity/Quality/Growth We are committed to effectively and competently delivering simple to understand solutions with the highest quality and greatest capacity for growth and longevity.
Happiness/Satisfaction/Security Deliver a system that meets the SPS mission statement.
Contact
For questions or comments about this work, please use our online Let’s Talk form.