Although some might be uncomfortable with the general idea of video surveillance, the technology has allowed for a level of transparency that has promoted a more just society.
Video recordings of altercations or emergencies have taken the guesswork out of addressing these situations: We don’t have to “take someone’s word for it” when an incident has been captured on video.
Because of the transparency they provide, surveillance cameras in schools are popular. According to a student survey from the National Center for Education Statistics, 86 percent of middle school and high school students have security cameras installed in their schools.
So you might ask yourself, is it illegal to have cameras in classrooms?
While security cameras in schools are common, there are limits to how this technology can be used. Security cameras are allowed in a typical school setting, but their use is governed by regulations.
Legal Concerns for Surveillance Cameras in Schools
First, it’s important to know that the government has varying laws with regard to surveillance on school grounds. Therefore, it’s critical to review and follow national laws when setting up or changing a security camera system.
In general, National laws allow for the use of video cameras to monitor areas where privacy is an unreasonable expectation, such as hallways or outdoor courtyards. This is a good rule of thumb to follow when considering the installation of a security camera.
the government has strict laws regarding hidden video surveillance. Therefore, security cameras in schools and classrooms should be visible.
Some cameras are capable of recording audio, and the laws forbid the audio recording of persons without at least one individual’s consent. If installed security cameras are capable of recording or audio, steps should be taken to ensure audio capabilities have been switched off.
In some situations, audio recording may be permitted so long as signage alerting people to audio recording is plainly visible. Schools looking to record audio with their video cameras should consult with local law enforcement and government officials to determine what is legally allowed.
If surveillance cameras in schools are plainly visible and record only video of areas where privacy is an unreasonable expectation, no signage is needed.
Where You Can Install Security Cameras in Schools
Before shopping around for a system, it’s important to know where it can be installed. Cameras are most effective in indoor common areas like auditoriums, cafeterias, hallways and gymnasiums. Recording in these areas increases visibility for school faculty, allowing them to quickly respond to altercations or emergencies.
Security cameras in common areas can also be a strong deterrent. People are less likely to do something improper if they know their actions are being recorded. In a school setting, this can have a significant chilling effect on bullying, harassment and assault. Security cameras can also deter and prevent false accusations from being taken seriously.
Security cameras can also be placed in classrooms. Students in a classroom under video surveillance are less likely to cheat or misbehave when an instructor isn’t focused on the class. In this situation, a school can increase invisibility and protect from liability in a way that is unobtrusive.
School security cameras around the perimeter of a campus can potentially avoid active crime situations. Some modern school surveillance systems are capable of identifying trespassers in real-time. This cutting-edge technology allows faculty and law enforcement to respond quickly, if necessary.
When placed in a parking lot, school security cameras can protect students and vehicles. Arrival and dismissal times can be particularly hectic in a school parking lot. Some school surveillance systems offer features like license plate recognition, which allow administrators to be notified in the event that an unauthorized vehicle enters the school parking lot.
It’s also important to note where surveillance cameras in schools are not allowed. Cameras cannot be placed in locker rooms, restrooms, changing areas and other areas where privacy is expected. Some local laws regarding security cameras in schools forbid the use of surveillance in faculty lounges and break rooms. These laws are particularly relevant for break rooms that are designed to provide individual privacy.
Installing Video Surveillance to Help a lot of Schools Stay Safe
Schools looking to install or upgrade a camera system should know that these systems are more affordable than ever. In the mid-2000s, high-definition security cameras could be cost prohibitive for some schools, but current cloud-based video surveillance technology is likely to be more cost efficient. Furthermore, some schools may be able to fund a security camera system through government grants.
School surveillance systems function best when they are backed up by strong IT support and technology. Surveillance cameras in schools require a good network that minimizes signal lag. School security cameras that are combined with alarms, door sensors or other internet-connected technology also require a strong network. Likewise, school surveillance systems should be backed by robust support from a security provider.
6 Reasons Why Schools Need Security Cameras
1. Deter crime
Various studies in recent years have shown that video surveillance can deter all sorts of crime. The simple presence of security cameras on your school premises can be enough to ward off harmful criminals, who can pose a real threat to students, staff, and families.
Security cameras can significantly deter crimes like theft, break-ins, vandalism, trespassing and intruders, and even bullying. Typically, if a person looking to commit a criminal act is aware that they are likely to get caught, they will avoid that location altogether.
2. Cost savings on security needs
Most people agree that security is a must-have on school premises. However, some schools have tight budgets and the cost of installing security cameras may seem overwhelming or impractical.
However, compare the cost of a high-quality video surveillance system to the cost of other security measures, such as hiring a full-fledged, 24-hour security staff. You will save money by installing those cameras! Compared to the past, a high resolution video surveillance system is much more affordable in this day and age. Plus, you’ll likely save tons of money by avoiding security breaches and other incidents down the road.
3. Oversee school premises
It’s important for schools to have a staff that oversees the premises, as needed. You will want the option to monitor students, staff, and visitors, to assure activity is normal and safe to everyone who is on site.
For instance, schools need to make sure every visitor is authorized before entering the building. Security cameras add an extra layer to visitor security, to make sure there are no harmful intruders who are putting students and teachers at risk.
You also want to make sure your school is not exceeding maximum capacity, student activity and behavior is normal, and students and teachers are in areas they belong.
4. Provide evidence during incidents
In the case of an incident that occurs on the school premises, you will want video surveillance to provide evidence of what actually happened. For instance, there may be an incident between two students, such as a fight or a bullying incident. There may also be a complaint about a teacher’s conduct. Or there may be a crime that takes place by a trespasser. No matter the incident, by using security cameras, you can rest assured that you will have the evidence you need to sort out the incident with police and other local authorities.
5. Enforce school rules and procedures
It can be hard for faculty and staff to enforce school policies and procedures without accountability. As students get older and more rule-resistant, it can be especially difficult to make sure the school body is behaving appropriately. Perhaps this is why over 90% of American high schools use security cameras!
Video surveillance can help to make sure students and faculty are abiding by important school rules. For instance, security cameras can:
Ensure important safety protocols are being met by all
Help to maintain a drug-free school environment
Dissuade bullying and other forms of student violence
Assure safe and appropriate teacher-to-student interactions
Deter rule violations, such as cell phone usage or aggressive behavior
6. Reduce stress
Lastly, security cameras can help ease the stress of faculty, staff, students, and families. By simply having security cameras on the school premises, people can rest assured that their children or family members are entering the safest and most secure school environment possible. Students and teachers will feel more safe and confident coming to school everyday. Faculty can make sure they are fostering a great school environment with the right precautions in place. This way, they can assure that they have a plan in place for any security issues that may occur.