All of the cameras are installed in public areas such as hallways, cafeterias and parking lots in order to proactively prevent incidents on campus. Axis network cameras were selected because they are easy to install and maintain, and because they connect directly to the district's existing computer network. The Power over Ethernet (PoE) functionality also saved on installation costs as it enables the cameras to be powered through a network cable, instead of a standard AC outlet.

"The Axis network cameras made sense because they enabled us to utilize existing networking gear, such as the switches we had previously installed for our voice over IP system," says Mike Tuttle, chief technology officer for Middletown City Schools "Axis provided us with the best functionality that met our needs and budget"

Middletown has plans to eventually tie the system in with local police and first responders so emergency personnel can view conditions inside the school before arriving at an incident site. Funding for the system was provided though a grant from New York state assemblywoman Aileen Gunther.

"For several years we have seen a big interest in installations of network video products at schools and universities. While they often have the infrastructure in place the installation is cost efficient and can easily be done. The network cameras also provide superior image quality, says Ray Mauritsson, president of Axis Communications"

CDW-G, a wholly owned subsidiary of CDW Corporation [NASDAQ: CDWC] and leading source of Information Technology (IT) solutions to governments and educators and a certified Axis reseller, provided Middletown with the network cameras, and Mirasys provided the video management software.

"Today, school districts are taking a more proactive approach to safety and security," says Bob Kirby,CDW-G director, K-12. "They want flexible solutions that will grow with the demands of the district and help them plan for future needs. Additionally, they want a solution that will prevent incidents, not just record them, and cameras can do that. By working closely with the community and law enforcement, districts spread the word that the cameras are on campus, putting would-be offenders on notice to think twice before acting out"

School security and safety is a rapidly growing area for the video surveillance industry. According to the National Center for Education Statistics' report, "Indicators of School Crime and Safety, 2005," the number of students' ages 12 to 18 attending schools that used one or more security cameras grew from 38.5 percent in 2001, to 47.9 percent in 2003. Many school districts, such as Middletown, opt for IP surveillance systems rather than analog because they already have the computer networks and bandwidth in place to support such systems.