The board approved an Audio Enhancement proposal to install classroom audio, intercom (EPIC), translation services and emergency-alert features across district buildings after a vendor presentation and staff recommendation.

Watson Ritchie, regional sales director at Audio Enhancement, demonstrated classroom microphones, ceiling speakers, a web-based EPIC kiosk for front-office paging and emergency notifications, the student-translation feature that streams translated audio to a student’s device, and safety features that allow teachers to send emergency alerts from worn microphones or in-class touch panels. Ritchie described professional development, warranty terms, charging/charging-station logistics and an annual licensing fee only for the translation service.

District staff told the board they had negotiated a credit for the district’s existing PA equipment and discussed permitting with the state building inspector because the installation involves low-voltage wiring. Staff recommended accepting the vendor proposal and authorized related soft costs to proceed with permitting and procurement.

Board members asked about uptime, battery life, device charging, pin-code protection for classroom touch panels, integration with cameras and alarm systems, and whether mobile access would be available to administrators. Ritchie said the system supports mobile app access, integrates with cameras and alarms, and that classroom microphones and kiosks have multi-year lifespans; translation requires an ongoing license.

After brief discussion, the board moved and approved the proposal in open session. Staff will work with the vendor to finalize scope, confirm credits for old equipment, and secure any needed permits before installation.