How Emerging Technologies are Transforming the School Security Landscape

• By Brad Cary
• April 24, 2025

Students can't focus on learning when they're worried about their safety. As education systems nationwide face evolving security challenges with limited resources, a new generation of integrated technology solutions is helping schools create safer environments while maximizing staff efficiency.

These evolving challenges require sophisticated approaches that go beyond traditional security measures. Today's emerging security technologies extend beyond conventional video cameras, offering powerful tools that provide real-time insights and proactive threat detection. At the heart of these solutions is the open platform video management software (VMS), which serves as a central hub connecting various smart devices and analytical tools.

Bringing Intelligence to Video Security
While most schools have basic video systems, these are often used only after incidents occur. Today's data-driven video technology transforms this reactive approach into a proactive safety strategy. Modern open platform VMS solutions can integrate with intelligent video analytics to monitor, detect and classify objects and activities in real time. Rather than replacing human judgment, these systems serve as digital assistants, providing security teams and administrators with critical information to make faster, better-informed decisions.

These tools act as a force multiplier, allowing security personnel to monitor larger spaces more effectively while remaining alert to potential issues that require human intervention. AI-powered systems can learn to recognize out-of-ordinary situations, such as someone walking against normal traffic flow to objects left behind or a person lying on the ground. When unusual activity is detected, the system can immediately alert appropriate personnel via desktop computers, smartphones or other mobile devices.

While intelligent video systems provide visual insights, today's comprehensive security solutions extend beyond cameras alone. The integration of specialized sensors at the edge of the network significantly enhances a school's security posture. These smart devices serve as the eyes and ears of the security system, collecting vital data from throughout the campus. Multi-sensor devices offer an expanding range of capabilities:

• Audio analytics can detect raised voices, breaking glass, gunshots, or specific keywords associated with distress or bullying. This capability allows for immediate intervention during potential conflicts or emergencies, providing an extra layer of protection throughout the campus.
• Vape detection technology monitors for smoking or vaping, particularly in challenging areas like restrooms and locker rooms. These systems help schools address the growing concern of youth vaping while maintaining student privacy in sensitive areas.
• Advanced air quality sensors measure temperature, humidity, and potentially harmful compounds. Beyond security applications, these sensors contribute to healthier learning environments by ensuring proper ventilation and detecting issues with HVAC systems before they affect student wellness.
• Occupancy monitoring features provide insights into space utilization and ensure compliance with capacity regulations. This data helps schools optimize resource allocation while providing critical information to first responders during emergencies about where people are located within the building.

When connected to an open platform VMS, these edge devices create a comprehensive awareness network. For example, when a keyword is detected by an audio sensor, the VMS can automatically notify relevant personnel, display live video feeds, and initiate appropriate response protocols.

Cloud Connectivity Enhances Flexibility and Response
Cloud-based and hybrid security solutions are also revolutionizing how schools approach video security. Recent improvements in national data infrastructure, coupled with advances in video compression and 5G wireless networks, have made cloud VMS options both feasible and affordable. The benefits of cloud connectivity extend far beyond simple remote access:

• Enhanced data sharing capabilities allow security teams to instantly share video information with first responders during emergencies
• Hybrid approaches combine on-premises equipment with cloud resources, offering scalability without abandoning existing investments
• Flexible payment models eliminate large upfront capital expenditures, allowing schools to scale their security infrastructure based on actual needs
• Infrastructure simplification reduces the need for extensive server rooms and complex maintenance schedules

Cloud connectivity is transforming how security teams collaborate with first responders. The ability to instantly share video data during emergencies enables faster and more coordinated responses to security incidents. This real-time information sharing can significantly improve outcomes during critical situations by giving emergency personnel vital situational awareness before they even arrive on scene.

A Holistic Approach to School Safety
The most effective school security strategies combine technology with thoughtful policies and procedures. While advanced tools provide powerful capabilities, their implementation must be part of a comprehensive security plan that addresses the unique needs and challenges of each campus.

Schools should consider privacy implications, obtain necessary permissions, and ensure technology is used ethically and responsibly. Transparent communication with students, parents, and staff about the purpose and limitations of security technology helps build trust and community support for these initiatives.

When properly integrated, these emerging technologies empower schools to do more with less—maximizing the effectiveness of security staff while creating learning environments where students and teachers feel safe and protected.

This article originally appeared in the May / June 2025 issue of Campus Security Today.