School Safety

MI Districts Add Vinyl to Windows for Security and Cooling

• By Dian Schaffhauser
• 07/17/19

Two school systems in Michigan are turning to window-sized graphics for safety, security and environmental benefit. Addison Community Schools and Hudson Area Schools have both turned to sign company Insignia Graphics to design, produce and install perforated vinyl on windows in their buildings.

According to local reporting, the window coverings help to keep rooms cooler on warm days by limiting the amount of sunlight that comes in while also providing a level of security. As Hudson Superintendent Michael Osborne told a reporter, the vinyl "enables staff and students to see outside but not people from the outside to be able to see in the classrooms." He added that the vinyl also adds strength to the glass.

The Hudson installation was part of a $141,000 safety grant the district received from the state through the Competitive School Safety Grant Program.

The funding has enabled the districts to customize the vinyl with school colors and logos. The Hudson grant was also expected to cover upgrades to entrances for the district's three buildings, including protective screens on all exterior doors, creation of a breezeway at the elementary entrance and bulletproof glass for the receptionist at both the elementary and middle school/high school main entrances.

The complete list of recipients is available on the Michigan State Police website.