Beatrice Public Schools board adopts emergency response mapping policy after debate over data storage

The Beatrice Public Schools Board of Education on Nov. 11 adopted Policy 3241, which clears the way for the district to apply for a grant and use Geocom as a provider of emergency response mapping.

The policy vote followed a substantive discussion about data storage and cybersecurity. Superintendent Jason Alexander said adopting the policy would allow the district to "apply for the grant and continue working with Geocom as the provider of the maps" and emphasized that adopting the policy would not automatically approve any contract. "If the policy fails, there's no need to apply for the grant," Alexander said during the meeting.

Board member Eric Book pressed the board on how map data would be stored and who would have access. "My worry is that this information will be stored in a place that could be hacked," Book said, raising the prospect that centralized records could be misused if not properly secured. Book cited past security warnings discussed in committee meetings and argued the board should weigh risks against benefits.

Other board members said local responders and chiefs view mapping as a useful tool that can reduce response times during natural disasters or safety incidents. Several members said adoption of the policy preserves the district’s ability to pursue grant funding while allowing the board to review any final contract terms. Board President confirmed that a contract would be brought back to the board for approval if negotiations proceed.

The motion to adopt Policy 3241 passed by a recorded vote of 4 to 1. The board did not at the meeting receive a vendor quote for Geocom; Superintendent Alexander said he had requested a quote and expected to negotiate contract terms before any procurement.

Next steps: with the policy adopted the district can pursue the grant and continue discussions with Geocom, but any contract for mapping services must still be presented to the board for approval.