Katy ISD proposes Flip Lock installation for enhanced classroom security

In a recent Katy ISD Board Work Study Meeting held on March 24, 2025, discussions centered on enhancing classroom security to ensure the safety of students and staff. The meeting featured presentations from David Bridal, Katy ISD Chief of Police, and Gruber Martinez, Director of Emergency Management and School Safety, who introduced a new security measure known as the Flip Lock.

The Flip Lock is a specialized locking device designed for classroom doors, aimed at providing an additional layer of security during lockdown situations. This device allows for easy locking and unlocking, ensuring that doors remain secure while still complying with safety standards, including the International Building Code (IBC) and ADA regulations. The implementation of Flip Locks is part of Katy ISD's broader safety and security strategy, which already includes features such as security vestibules, window film, card access systems, and security cameras.

Bridal emphasized that while the district has a policy requiring classroom doors to remain locked during instructional time, the Flip Lock would serve as a visible assurance for both students and staff that they are protected behind a secured door. The proposal includes the installation of approximately 11,000 Flip Locks in classrooms where attendance is taken, with plans for installation to occur after hours and during off days to minimize disruption.

The board is expected to vote on the approval of this initiative, which, if passed, would see the installation completed before the start of the 2025-2026 school year. This move reflects Katy ISD's commitment to prioritizing safety in educational environments, addressing growing concerns about security in schools across the nation. The anticipated approval of the Flip Lock installation underscores the district's proactive approach to enhancing safety measures for its community.