Center for Homeland Security assists Academy School District 20

The Center for Homeland Security, part of the National Institute of Science, Space and Security Centers at UCCS will help evaluate security Academy School District 20 elementary schools this fall as part of an ongoing effort to improve district security. 

Students from United States Northern Command at Peterson Air Force Base who are enrolled in a Critical Infrastructure Protection class will conduct site surveys at 18 district elementary schools, according to Rick White, associate director, Center for Homeland Security.

The CHS students will collect basic data on school security and contribute to the school district’s strategic security plan in coordination with Larry Borland, district security chief. Academy School District 20 students will not be involved in the survey.

“The students gain practical experience and the district gets additional eyes, ears and minds to assist in making schools safe,” White said. “Everyone, but most importantly, our youngest citizens, wins in this arrangement.”

The Colorado Department of Public Safety has identified state schools as critical sectors requiring risk analysis and vulnerability assessment. Academy School District 20 requires all schools to complete a risk analysis using the Constellation/Automated Critical Asset Management System developed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. 

As part of its work, students enrolled in the Critical Infrastructure Course will evaluate a Department of Homeland Security training program for the Constellation/Automated Critical Asset Management System. They will also work cooperatively with the Colorado Rubicon Team, a special unit of the Colorado Highway Patrol.

“This collaborative effort between state, local, and federal officials will provide not only a unique education experience but will hopefully enhance security across the nation,” Michael Perini, executive director, NISSSC, said.

The National Institute of Science, Space and Security Centers creates academic and research deliverables in science, space and security disciplines. It consists of the Center for Homeland Security, the Center for Space Studies, Center for Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics Education and the Trauma, Health & Hazards Center.