Board approves $996K upgrades for Fernley Elementary School and bus surveillance systems

The Lyon County School District (LCSD) Board Meeting on April 22, 2025, highlighted significant advancements aimed at enhancing student safety and operational efficiency within the district. A key decision made during the meeting was the unanimous approval of nearly $1 million for rooftop unit upgrades at Fernley Elementary School, addressing critical infrastructure needs across the district's campuses.

Trustees discussed the necessity of replacing outdated air handler units at Fernley Elementary, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a conducive learning environment. The board's swift approval reflects a commitment to improving facilities that directly impact students' daily experiences.

In addition to infrastructure improvements, the board also approved a comprehensive upgrade to the district's school bus camera systems and student tracking platforms. Executive Director of Operations Harmon Baines presented the proposal, which aims to replace aging camera systems that have been in use for up to 25 years. The new system will enhance safety by providing real-time monitoring and improved documentation capabilities for incidents on school buses.

The proposed upgrades include the installation of a modern audio and visual camera system across the entire bus fleet, which has faced reliability issues in the past. The board also discussed the introduction of a new student tracking system called Traversa, which promises to streamline operations and improve communication with parents regarding their children's transportation.

Trustee feedback during the meeting underscored the urgency of these upgrades, with several members noting the positive experiences of other districts that have implemented similar systems. The board's decision to invest in these technologies is expected to enhance student safety and operational efficiency, ultimately benefiting families and the broader community.

As the meeting concluded, the board expressed a commitment to ongoing improvements in the hiring process and other operational aspects of the district, ensuring that the needs of students and staff remain a top priority. The decisions made during this meeting are poised to have a lasting impact on the quality of education and safety within Lyon County schools.