Industry
K-12
Challenge
As Rock Ridge Public Schools embarked on constructing three new state-of-the-art schools, they aimed to implement a modern security infrastructure from the ground up, addressing previous security gaps found in their aging buildings, some of which were over 100 years old.
Results
By prioritizing safety during the design of three newly built campuses, Rock Ridge Public Schools achieved measurable improvements in both security and operational efficiency. Staff now use credential-based access, eliminating the need for physical keys and reducing unauthorized entry risks. Surveillance cameras provide real-time visibility across all facilities, while automated access schedules streamline building management for seasonal staff and vendors. Emergency preparedness has also improved significantly, with the ability to initiate instant lockdowns and track building access in real time. These upgrades have positioned Rock Ridge as a forward-thinking leader in school safety and infrastructure planning.
Key Product
Video Surveillance, Access Control, Electronic Locks, Video Management Software, Emergency Response
Parallel Technologies worked closely with us to ensure our security infrastructure met the highest standards, creating a safer and more efficient environment for our students and staff.
The School
Rock Ridge Public Schools serves students in northern Minnesota with three newly built, state-of-the-art school facilities. Dedicated to fostering a secure and efficient learning environment, the district prioritized advanced security solutions in its new construction projects, partnering with Parallel Technologies and Allegion to implement modern access control and surveillance systems that enhance student safety, streamline facility management, and ensure ongoing peace of mind for staff, students, and the wider community.Addressing Past Security Challenges While Designing New Schools
When Rock Ridge Public Schools set out to construct three brand-new, state-of-the-art school facilities, security was a top priority. With aging buildings over 100 years old, the district faced significant security challenges, including reliance on physical keys, lack of access control, and minimal surveillance coverage. Unauthorized individuals could enter buildings with little oversight, and without comprehensive monitoring, security incidents often went unnoticed.
“Our old buildings had significant security gaps, from uncontrolled access to a lack of surveillance, making it clear that safety needed to be a top priority in our new schools,” said Bill Bryson III, Technology Director at Rock Ridge Public Schools.
Determined to integrate modern security from the ground up, the district partnered with Parallel Technologies and Allegion to design a cutting-edge infrastructure that would set a new standard for safety and efficiency.
Building Security Into the Foundation
Rather than retrofitting security solutions after construction, Rock Ridge Public Schools took a proactive approach by embedding security measures directly into the design of their new facilities. Parallel Technologies and Allegion worked closely with the district from the earliest planning stages to ensure that safety was seamlessly incorporated.
Key security enhancements included a complete transition to credential-based access control, ensuring that every door—classrooms, janitorial closets, and gym storage—was secured without the need for traditional keys. Surveillance cameras were strategically placed both inside and outside buildings to provide real-time monitoring, improving visibility and incident response.
“We needed a solution that moved beyond outdated security measures and gave us full control over who accessed our schools and when,” said Bryson. “Parallel Technologies helped us implement a fully integrated system that strengthens access control, surveillance, and emergency response.”
Another significant improvement was the automation of access schedules, allowing seasonal staff and external vendors to receive time-restricted entry permissions. This streamlined security processes and reduced administrative workload while maintaining a high level of control.
"With our new security infrastructure in place, we have eliminated vulnerabilities from outdated systems and can confidently manage access and safety across our district.”
A Future-Ready Infrastructure for Rock Ridge Schools
With safety concerns in schools across the nation increasing, Rock Ridge Public Schools recognized the importance of implementing security solutions that could evolve with future needs. The system’s emergency response capabilities allow administrators to instantly lock down buildings and track access activity, ensuring a swift and coordinated response to potential incidents.
The results of these security advancements have been transformative. Staff members now operate in an environment where credential-based access eliminates risks associated with lost or stolen keys. Surveillance cameras offer continuous monitoring, giving administrators full visibility into activity across campuses. Automated access controls have streamlined building management, reducing inefficiencies that previously plagued security operations.
“With our new security infrastructure in place, we have eliminated vulnerabilities from outdated systems and can confidently manage access and safety across our district,” Bryson said. “This investment has given us peace of mind, knowing that we are providing a secure learning environment for students and staff.”
Setting a New Standard for School Safety
Rock Ridge Public Schools continues to collaborate with Parallel Technologies and Allegion to refine and enhance their security systems, ensuring that their newly built campuses serve as a model for best practices in school safety. By embedding modern security into the core design of their facilities, the district has created a foundation that will protect students and staff for years to come.
The proactive approach taken by Rock Ridge Public Schools exemplifies how districts can successfully integrate advanced security solutions, prioritizing safety without compromising efficiency. With this level of planning and execution, the district has not only addressed past security concerns but has positioned itself as a leader in modern school safety initiatives.