By MIKE COURSON
Great Bend Post
Earlier this month, USD 428 District Support Specialist Cody Cale outlined the benefits of a new Verkada camera security system at Great Bend High School to the board of education. Assistant Superintendent John Popp planned to bring the purchase back before the board at its next meeting as an action item. Verkada representatives responded with an offer ahead of Thursday's board luncheon at Riley Elementary School.
"We were planning on bringing this to you in February but they've been very interested in trying to make a sale before the end of January," Popp said. "They've offered us some fairly significant savings. The original price was $222,000. They're giving us, if we can get it done in January, a $20,000 discount."
The purchase will include 157 high-definition cameras that will provide complete coverage inside and outside at GBHS. Software with the cameras will allow staff to search by color, use facial recognition, and email live camera feeds to first responders in the event of an emergency. Board Member Randy Wetzel made the motion to approve the purchase at the discounted rate.
"The bottom line is we're going to replace the system," he said. "It needs to be done. This is a great system. We're saving $20,000. It's time to get it done."
The new high-resolution cameras also allow staff to zoom in with clarity, and they record sound. The district receives a federal Safe Schools grant of $100,000 each year that can be used to help pay for the cameras. The board voted 5-0 to approve the purchase for $202,793.