Palestine School District Deploys AI Gun Detection Technology
New proactive video analytics layer onto existing security cameras at Palestine Community Unit School District #3 to mitigate firearm threats.
- By Jesse Jacobs
- March 11, 2026
Palestine Community Unit School District #3 has deployed an artificial intelligence-based gun detection and situational awareness platform to protect its students and staff from firearm-related threats.
The district, which serves students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade, integrated the software into its existing security camera infrastructure. The system is designed to identify visible firearms and provide an extra layer of protection to the rural Illinois campus.
District leadership evaluated the technology over several meetings to determine its effectiveness in strengthening current safety measures.
"The safety of our students and staff is our highest priority," said Jessica Sisil, superintendent of Palestine CUSD #3. "We implemented a solution that enhances our safety efforts while remaining mindful of our resources. This partnership is an important step forward in protecting our school community."
The software, developed by ZeroEyes, uses AI to scan digital camera feeds for weapons. When a potential firearm is identified, images are instantly sent to a monitoring center staffed by military and law enforcement veterans.
If the threat is verified by the analysts, alerts and situational intelligence—including a visual description of the shooter, the type of weapon and the suspect's last known location—are dispatched to local law enforcement and school administrators. This verification and notification process can occur in as little as three to five seconds.
The implementation of AI video analytics is becoming a more common component of multi-layered school safety strategies, which often include physical barriers, access control and mental health resources.
"Palestine CUSD #3 has taken a proactive, tactical approach to campus safety," said Mike Lahiff, CEO of ZeroEyes. "We’re proud to provide technology that mitigates gun-related incidents with speed, accuracy, and integrity."