Chicago Public Schools Physical Security System

Level-1 modernized CPS’s surveillance with Genetec IP camera systems, enabling centralized, real-time security across hundreds of schools.

With over 600 campuses and administrative buildings, Chicago Public Schools (CPS) serves more than 360,000 students and employs over 45,000 staff members, making it not only the second-largest school district in the U.S., but also one of the most complex educational ecosystems to secure. To protect students, staff, and critical infrastructure, the Chicago Board of Education initiated a district-wide initiative to upgrade its video surveillance systems transitioning from aging analog infrastructure to modern IP-based security solutions on a standardized Genetec Security Center platform.

Chicago Public Schools is currently investing $76 million to expand and upgrade its camera network across roughly 330 elementary and high schools. This expansion builds on a history of more than 7,000 analog cameras across 268 schools in 2011, significantly increasing the presence of digital cameras and advancing CPS’s long-term safety strategy. 

Level-1 Global Solutions was brought on as a trusted subcontractor to support the deployment, integration, and maintenance of advanced security camera systems across hundreds of CPS sites. As a certified Genetec Security Partner, we not only installed and configured systems but also federated the entire CPS camera network creating a unified platform that allows security staff to monitor multiple campuses seamlessly from central command while preserving site-level autonomy. 

We provide trained and certified project management and technical personnel to support comprehensive lifecycle services such as site assessments, design, system installation, configuration, and ongoing maintenance. Working in close coordination with CPS stakeholders, school administrators, and other vendors, we ensure that each new or upgraded system integrates seamlessly into the district’s Genetec Security Center platform. 

What We Delivered 

• Certified Installation and Integration Installation, configuration, and testing of Genetec Security Center and Omnicast systems by certified professionals 
• Federation of the CPS camera network, enabling centralized monitoring across hundreds of campuses while preserving local control 
• Modernization of legacy analog surveillance systems with high-performance IP-based cameras that meet current Board of Education security standards 
• Comprehensive quality assurance services including on-site verification and full performance testing of all surveillance equipment and infrastructure 
• Technical services encompassing system diagnostics, network integration, error resolution, and troubleshooting across CPS campuses 
• Coordinated implementation of network devices and infrastructure in partnership with vendors to ensure seamless service continuity 
• Project oversight through weekly reporting, budget tracking, and schedule updates aligned with district expectations and construction milestones 
• Direct coordination with school principals, local technical coordinators, and staff to communicate schedules, access requirements, and minimize disruption during installation 
• Supervision and performance management of internal and subcontracted personnel to uphold service quality and ensure timely resolution of technical issues 

Level-1’s work has significantly improved CPS’s ability to monitor and respond to security threats in real time. By modernizing the district’s surveillance capabilities, federating the network, and maintaining consistent technical standards across its vast infrastructure, we helped establish safer learning environments and ensure CPS remains at the forefront of school safety innovation in the public sector.