Bixby is rolling out a new school security app to improve communication

BIXBY, Okla. – Over the past three weeks, 700 children and teenagers have been arrested in 45 states on suspicion of making violent threats against schools.

This is according to research by the New York Times.

Lockdowns are becoming common and disruptive.

“It can be very devastating because not only do students feel unsafe, but their parents find out about it and are not sure whether the school knows how to properly handle it,” said Rob Miller, superintendent of Bixby Public Schools.

To ensure security, Miller says Bixby is rolling out a new program that includes new technology.

It’s an app called Hey HQ that quickly connects teachers, administrators, and school officials during an incident.

“This allows our teachers to communicate quickly in the event of any scenarios or emergencies,” said district safety officer Steven Scott.

Scott says that while texting and walkie-talkies are still used for communication, this option will keep everyone informed at the same time.
By activating the “active attacker” option in the app, the entire building and authorities will be alerted.

There is also a live chat option, allowing people to communicate with each other during the event.

There are also lower level incident options. For example, a missing child, a medical emergency, or a drug and alcohol-related incident may not necessarily require immediate contact with the authorities.

“It would notify the principal and the SROs (school resource officers) could be notified so they could move in that direction and be aware of the situation,” Scott said.

The district cannot require teachers to download the app to their phones, but Scott says about 75% of teachers do.

Miller said the district already has security officers, secure vestibules, visitors background checkers and metal detectors are available for use when deemed necessary.

“In terms of the day-to-day and the presence of young students, we think it’s kind of over,” Miller said.

Miller sees the app as a more behind-the-scenes approach that will keep students safe and focused on school rather than worries.

The technology is fully funded by the Tulsa Community Foundation and the Secure Our Schools Foundation.

Any school that, in addition to technology, also provides other useful resources can apply.

Click here to apply.

Jenks also uses the program.

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