Door Access Control Systems for Schools: Case Study
How Umbrella Security Modernized Access Control for West Leyden High School District 212
School districts face increasing pressure to improve campus safety while controlling costs and ensuring system reliability. West Leyden High School District 212 confronted these challenges head-on by partnering with Umbrella Security to modernize its access control infrastructure. By replacing outdated, unreliable wireless door hardware with a hardwired, integrated access control system, the district achieved greater reliability, faster lockdown capabilities, and long-term operational efficiency.
This case study highlights how Umbrella Security delivered a scalable, future-ready security solution trusted by school districts that demand performance, service, and accountability.
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The Challenge: Aging Systems and Unreliable Wireless Hardware
Before working with Umbrella Security, West Leyden High School District 212 relied heavily on battery-powered, wireless access control devices. While initially attractive, these systems introduced serious operational challenges over time:
- Frequent battery failures—especially on exterior doors in cold weather
- Inconsistent connectivity via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- High maintenance labor costs for battery replacement
- End-of-life hardware with limited upgrade paths
- Fragmented systems with poor integration
According to district leadership, reliability became a daily frustration. In one instance, a critical exterior door failed to unlock because the battery had drained in freezing temperatures—highlighting a serious safety and access risk.
The district needed a hardwired, enterprise-grade access control system that could support 24/7 operations, integrate with existing safety systems, and reduce long-term maintenance costs.
The Solution: A Unified, Hardwired Access Control Platform
Having previously partnered with Umbrella Security at Addison School District, district leadership turned to Umbrella again after moving to the high school level. The requirements were clear:
- Hardwired access control for maximum reliability
- An open-platform system without vendor lock-in
- Full campus lockdown capabilities
- Integration with existing fire alarm and emergency systems
- A single credential for staff access across all facilities
Watch the Full Case-Study Video
Umbrella Security designed and deployed a modern access control upgrade built around a robust, open-platform architecture. The solution replaced wireless hardware with hardwired card readers and electric strikes, ensuring consistent performance in all conditions.
The system was fully integrated with:
- BluePoint emergency notification systems
- Fire alarm and life safety systems
District-wide badge credentials used daily by staff
This unified approach allowed one credential to control access across doors, time schedules, and multiple buildings—simplifying both security and operations.
The Impact of Security Systems in Education
Studies show that schools with comprehensive security systems experience a 30% reduction in on-campus incidents.
- Institutions Reporting Increased Safety 90%
- Reduction in Unauthorized Access Attempts 80%
- Decrease in Vandalism Cases 70%
- Improvement in Emergency Response Time 90%
- Increase in Student and Staff Satisfaction 80%
- Enhanced Surveillance Coverage Across Campuses 70%
The Installation: Expertise That Solves Real-World Problems
Educational Institution Security
School buildings present unique challenges—especially older facilities. During installation at East Leyden High School, a 100-year-old building introduced unforeseen construction conditions, including multiple ceiling layers and limited pathways for cabling.
Umbrella Security’s installation team adapted without delay. Technicians safely navigated complex infrastructure, fished wire through difficult routes, and completed the work without disruption or complaints—demonstrating the field experience required for large, aging campuses.
For the district, this level of professionalism mattered. Construction issues are inevitable, but Umbrella Security’s ability to solve them efficiently reinforced confidence in the partnership.
“Umbrella Security has always done right by us. Their communication, responsiveness, and follow-through are exactly what you want when it comes to school security. If I call Umbrella Security, they’re there—often within the hour. That responsiveness is critical for security and life-safety systems. One system now works with our fire alarm, emergency notification, and access control. That level of integration makes our buildings safer and more efficient. They handled unforeseen conditions in a 100-year-old building without hesitation. No complaints—just solutions. This isn’t just a vendor relationship. Umbrella Security is a long-term partner we trust across our campuses.”
The Results: Safer Campuses, Lower Costs, Greater Control
The access control upgrade delivered immediate and long-term benefits:
Improved Reliability
Hardwired door hardware eliminated battery failures and wireless connectivity issues—especially on exterior doors.
Faster Lockdowns
Integrated systems allow the district to secure buildings quickly during emergencies, improving student and staff safety.
Lower Maintenance Costs
Facilities teams now service the system internally, reducing reliance on proprietary parts and external contractors.
Operational Efficiency
A single badge credential controls access across buildings, schedules, and systems—supporting a district that operates 24/7.
Scalability and Future Readiness
The open-platform design ensures the district can integrate new technologies without replacing the entire system.
Client
West Leyden School District 212
Date
Completed in March 2024
Our Role
Security Systems Integrator: Design, Installation and On-Going Service/Upgrades
Why West Leyden Chose Umbrella Security
When evaluating security providers, the district emphasized service, responsiveness, and transparency. Umbrella Security consistently stood out.
Key differentiators included:
Rapid service response—often within an hour
Direct access to knowledgeable technicians and leadership
Clear, competitive pricing with apples-to-apples scoping
Proven experience in K-12 school security environments
Most importantly, Umbrella Security built trust by doing what they promised—every time.
A Long-Term Security Partner for Schools
Today, West Leyden High School District 212 continues to rely on Umbrella Security for campus safety and access control. The district has already provided referrals and remains committed to the partnership.
Door Access Control Systems for Schools seeking reliable access control, fast emergency response, and a security provider that shows up, this project demonstrates what’s possible with the right partner.
Our team In Action: Installation Photo's
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