Protecting the physical security of schools is now at the forefront of not only architectural design, but the building products industry as well. Today’s security measures must not only be highly effective, but they must also be pleasing to building occupants while creating a barrier for would-be intruders. Six new public schools in Reno, Nevada worked with their architects and a window manufacturer, WINCO Window Company, to provide a new and innovative solution that not only provides a powerful security benefit, but significant energy savings.
During 2017, WINCO was conducting research for a new energy efficient window system with the University of California, Davis. At the same time, the citizens of Washoe County, Nevada had approved funding for new schools and security upgrades at current schools. The chief of the Washoe County School District Police Department wanted to be intimately involved with the school design, as his department was responsible for school security. The Washoe County School District (WCSD) wanted windows that would provide visual security for teachers and students in the classroom in the event of a lockdown or “code red” situation.