ALLIANCE -- The Alliance Police Department recently completed an upgrade to a new public safety-grade radio system.

While the department’s former radio system no longer met the demands of modern law enforcement, it proved to be an ideal solution to enhance safety for local schools and students. 

Through a collaborative effort between the police department and Alliance Area Schools, the department’s previous radio system has been reassigned to provide instant emergency communication between school staff, bus drivers, and public safety dispatchers. 

“The Alliance Police Department has a great relationship with our schools, and I can’t think of a better use for our old radio system,” said Chief David Leavitt. “This gives us another tool to ensure our schools and bus drivers can call for help quickly when needed.” 

Mobile radios have been installed in all yellow school buses, and portable radios have been placed in the offices of Emerson Elementary, Grandview Elementary, Alliance Middle School, Alliance High School, Saint Agnes Academy, and Emmanuel Evangelical Lutheran School. 

In the event of an emergency, school staff or bus drivers will be able to communicate directly with 9-1-1 dispatchers, who can immediately send police, fire, or medical responders as needed. 

“Our top priority is keeping our kids safe. We appreciate our partnership with APD and their continued commitment to keeping our schools secure,” Alliance Schools Superintendent Dr. Troy Unzicker added. 

This partnership underscores the strong working relationship between Alliance law enforcement and local schools, ensuring that safety remains a community-wide priority.