Forest Hills School District Approves $3.67M Carehawk System Install Across 16 Buildings

Forest Hills Board of Education has approved a significant investment in school safety, allocating up to $3.67 million for the installation of the Carehawk monitoring system across 16 district buildings over the next two years. This decision, made during the Regular Board of Education Meeting on October 16, 2023, aims to enhance the safety and security of students and staff by providing continuous monitoring and preventative maintenance for school facilities.

The Carehawk system, which includes a mobile app for real-time updates, was chosen for its superior service capabilities, despite not being the lowest bid. The district emphasized the importance of the vendor's dedicated support team and advanced monitoring features, which are expected to improve response times and overall service quality. The project will begin with the three high schools and the administration transition center, followed by middle and elementary schools.

Funding for this initiative will come from the 2021 capital projects fund, utilizing bond money approved by the community in 2018. This financial strategy allows the district to invest in essential safety measures without straining its operating budget.

In addition to the safety upgrades, the Board also approved the annual financial statements for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023. The district received the highest commendation from its independent audit, highlighting its compliance with accepted accounting principles. Forest Hills is one of only 17 districts in Michigan to earn a certificate of excellence in financial reporting, showcasing its commitment to transparency and fiscal responsibility.

These developments reflect the Board's ongoing efforts to prioritize student safety and maintain financial integrity, ensuring that the community's investment in education continues to yield positive outcomes.