A new security measure has taken effect at LHS this year. Batteries have been removed from the classroom door keypads, and teachers are now required to unlock their classrooms using keys.
Originally installed in 2013, the keypad’s 12-year reign came to an end due to two primary reasons: age and security. Principal Matthew Sarosy elaborated, “The codes were widely known by the student body, and were beginning to show their age [as they] started to break down.” It became clear to teachers and administrators that students knew codes to enter classrooms, which then jeopardized the safety of classrooms. When asked about her thoughts on this new system, English teacher Jill Garfunkel replied, “I think that it is a sign of the times that modern technology is not always the answer. Going back to using keys shows progress!”
Social studies teacher Nicole DiBenedetto said, “I like using the key because it makes it easier to access every room; different departments previously had different codes.” DiBenedetto supports this new policy since she no longer needs to remember multiple codes for different rooms.
Going back to keys, which is what teachers used before the keypads were installed, has been an adjustment for some teachers. However, they do understand the necessity for the change. “I have accidentally locked myself out of my room more than a few times already. It’s an adjustment to remember to bring the key with me whenever I leave my room. Thank goodness Mr. Spinella is nearby and has rescued me on most of those occasions. It was a change that needed to be made, however, to ensure the safety of our building. I’m sure I will adjust to the old way of doing things after a short while,” said English teacher Jessica Sanders.
Needing a physical key is only a temporary solution. Sarosy explained, “Eventually, we will be installing key card access into each classroom. This project has already started in [our] elementary schools. While we wait for the project to come to the high school, deactivating the keypads was a practical step to ensure the safety of the building.”
