School Safety Technology in America: Current Use and Perceived Effectiveness

Abstract

School safety administrators (SSAs) are using technologies such as video cameras, weapon detectors, and entry control devices (ECD) in an attempt to deal with school violence. Although it is well known that cameras are useful for documenting events after the fact, further utility of the various school safety technologies is virtually unknown. To address the paucity of information in this area, a national telephone survey of SSAs was conducted. In addition to discussing technology utilization and effectiveness, several important policy considerations (e.g., cost, technology placement, the role that local law enforcement can play in safety plans, and the availability of alternatives that might bolster school safety by enhancing the school community) are discussed.