EAST PALESTINE, Ohio -

East Palestine Schools have implemented a series of security upgrades as part of their new “Bulldog Safety” initiative, aiming to create a safer environment for students and staff.

The district partnered with Proline Technologies, a Cincinnati-based company, to introduce four new safety features. These include a visitor management system, requiring all visitors to scan a government-issued ID before entering; vape detectors in restrooms to deter students from using nicotine or THC products; panic buttons for teachers to use in emergencies; and additional security cameras to increase surveillance across the district.

School officials say the panic buttons allow teachers to send instant alerts to administrators, the school nurse, and the resource officer, with emergency services notified if needed. Meanwhile, the vape detectors provide real-time alerts to school administrators, allowing them to address potential incidents quickly.

Superintendent James Rook says the initiative was driven by feedback from staff and the community. The district began exploring upgrades last summer, made purchases in the fall, and installed the new systems over winter break.

With these changes now in place, district leaders say they will continue monitoring their effectiveness and look for additional ways to enhance school security.