By Alyssa Hollingsworth
IV Leader Staff
In order to make IVCC a safer place for students and staff
members, two new emergency notification systems have been installed on campus: a
new telephone system (including the new phones in the parking lots) and an alert
system.
Harold Barnes, director of information and technology
services at IVCC, explains, “New telephones will be installed in every classroom
and meeting room before October. These phones will act as a way to enhance the
PA system that IVCC currently has. The phones will be able to be addressed
individually, as groups or as a whole.”
According to Barnes, staff members will have the ability to
log in and out of the phones to shift their number when they change rooms. The
phones will also be capable of receiving messages so classes do not get
disturbed.
For those students who are not on campus, Tracy Morris,
director of admissions and records, is organizing the new alert system. In the
case of an emergency campus closing, those signed up to receive these alerts
will receive a message either by e-mail or text message. Within two weeks after
signing up, a post card will be received with important information. If text
messaging is chosen, you must be sure your cell phone is capable of receiving
messages.
Also be aware that depending on your rate plan and carrier,
additional charges may apply towards your monthly bill.
Bi-monthly tests will be run to make sure that the system is
working properly. Notifications will not be sent out for individual class
cancellations. Anyone enrolled or employed at IVCC can sign up at
www.ivcc.edu/alerts.
In addition to the emergency alerts, new emergency call boxes
have been installed in the parking lots so students are safer as they travel
around campus.