IP Video technology has become a cornerstone for K-12 schools and higher-education institutions navigating an increasingly complex landscape.
With rising safety concerns, shrinking budgets, and the growing need for inclusive communication, administrators are turning to innovative video solutions to meet critical challenges. These technologies are no longer confined to supporting classroom instruction—they now play a vital role in enhancing campus safety, fostering community engagement, and driving operational efficiency.
To learn more, we caught up with Emily Parker, Enterprise Engagement Leader at VITEC, a global leader in streaming solutions and video encoding innovation, where she focuses on helping schools and institutions of higher learning leverage video systems to align safety and engagement goals.
Here is what she had to say:
QWhy are IP-based video technologies becoming such an essential tool for schools today?
Emily Parker: Schools are navigating a complex set of challenges, including rising safety concerns, tighter budgets, and the need for more inclusive communication and engagement strategies. IP-based video technologies that ride on existing information technology network infrastructures address these issues by providing immediate impact and long-term value. This is in contrast to legacy technologies that have required their own cabling and dedicated technical resources which typically are difficult, if not impossible, to integrate with other school systems.
As a result, modern video systems can send emergency alerts, improve day-to-day communication, and even foster stronger relationships among students, faculty, staff, and parents. It’s not just about communication; it’s about transforming how schools create safer, more informed, and connected communities.
QHow can school districts and colleges use IP video technology to improve safety?
Parker: Safety is a top priority for every school, and video systems are redefining what’s possible in emergency management. For example, integrated systems can trigger emergency alerts across an entire campus or district instantly, minimizing delays during a crisis. What makes these solutions even more impactful is their ease of use. Administrators need tools that are straightforward, reliable, and cost-effective. The latest video systems integrate seamlessly with existing IT infrastructures, eliminating technical barriers that could slow down emergency responses.
QBeyond emergencies, how do IP video systems add value to schools on a daily basis?
Parker: These systems go beyond safety. They enhance daily communication and foster engagement across the community. Centralized video platforms based on internet protocol (IP) networking standards enable schools to share announcements, highlight achievements, and archive lectures or events for on-demand access. This creates a stronger sense of community while supporting both academic and extracurricular activities. And because the technology is intuitive and mirrors how people use their personal devices, it’s accessible to everyone, regardless of their technical expertise.
Q&A with Emily Parker: Practical Advice for K-12 and
Higher-Education Leaders on Leveraging IP Video Technology
QBudget constraints are a significant challenge for schools. How can video technology be scaled to address these limitations?
Parker:Scalability is a critical factor for schools working within tight budgets. Centralized video systems allow districts to manage multiple schools from a single platform, eliminating the need for separate systems at each site. This modular approach lets schools expand or upgrade incrementally, keeping costs manageable while ensuring consistent communication across the district. By taking this approach, schools can integrate new features over time, staying within budget while preparing for future needs.
QWhat advantages do integrated video platforms offer compared to separate, siloed systems?
Parker: Traditionally, schools have used separate systems for safety alerts, digital signage, and video-based education. This siloed approach often leads to inefficiencies and interoperability issues. Integrated video platforms break down these barriers, offering a unified solution for safety, engagement, and learning. For instance, a single system can manage emergency messaging, support classroom instruction, and even record events for later viewing. This not only streamlines operations but also maximizes the return on investment by delivering multiple benefits through one solution.
QTraditional licensing agreements often create budget headaches for schools. What alternatives exist?
Parker: Traditional licensing agreements rely on recurring subscription fees, which can be problematic for schools operating under volatile budgets that require annual board approval. If the budget isn’t approved, licenses can expire, leaving hardware and systems unusable. Additionally, these agreements often come with evolving terms that can create bureaucratic hurdles.
Perpetual licensing offers a better alternative. With this model, schools own their licenses outright, ensuring that their systems continue functioning regardless of funding delays or budget constraints. This approach safeguards investments and provides the financial and operational stability schools need to focus on their mission.
QHow can schools take advantage of available grant funding to implement video technology?
Parker: Federal and state programs, like the School Violence Prevention Program (SVPP), are providing schools with significant opportunities to enhance their safety infrastructure. For example, districts like Monterey Peninsula Unified School District in California have used SVPP grants to modernize their security platforms and deploy cloud-based surveillance systems. These grants are helping schools establish a strong foundation for safety while keeping scalability in mind. It’s an excellent time for schools to invest in solutions that not only address current challenges but also prepare for future growth.
Q What does the future of video technology in education look like?
Parker: The future is incredibly exciting. Advances in artificial intelligence (AI) and analytics will provide real-time insights into student engagement and operational efficiency. Emerging technologies like augmented reality (AR) and interactive tools will revolutionize learning environments, making education more immersive and engaging. Schools need systems that can grow and adapt with these innovations, which is why future-proofing investments is so important. At VITEC, we’re working closely with schools and higher-education institutions to ensure their video technology solutions remain agile and aligned with tomorrow’s demands.
Q What’s your advice to school leaders who are evaluating video technology solutions?
Parker: Start with a clear understanding of your goals—whether it’s improving safety, fostering community engagement, or enhancing learning outcomes. Look for solutions that are easy to use, scalable, and integrate seamlessly with your existing infrastructure. Pay attention to the licensing model as well; perpetual licensing offers the stability and predictability schools need in a fluctuating budget environment. Finally, leverage available grants and partnerships to maximize your investment. By taking these steps, schools can create safer, more connected, and future-ready environments.
Q Any final thoughts for school leaders exploring video technology?
Parker: Video technology is no longer just a nice-to-have; it’s a must-have for schools navigating today’s challenges. The convergence of federal funding, scalable solutions, and advanced features offers an unprecedented opportunity for schools to modernize their operations. With the right approach and partners, video systems can help schools address safety concerns, strengthen community ties, and prepare for an exciting future.
