Why Should Schools Use Video Surveillance?

Public schools have been equipped with video surveillance CCTV systems even before Columbine. The reasons include increased safety and security for students. Installing video surveillance cameras in schools is a costly project, and school districts must be sure that this is the right route to deter theft, property damage, and to prevent outsiders from entering the school's property. Even though most school districts that have implemented video surveillance systems have faced privacy concerns from parents, students and civil libertarian groups, school officials assert that cameras curb crime and are important sources of physical evidence when crimes do occur.

Why should schools use video surveillance?

Before secondary and middle school officials …show more content…
o The cameras allow school security personnel to do more job-specific work, which saves money in the long run since the mundane tasks will be performed by the security system.

o Money is also saved from insurance premiums by the reduced burglaries and vandalism.

However, costs remain and these must be faced with each security system installation:

o The initial set-up costs, plus maintenance and personnel costs may be too large for the school district.

o Privacy rights must be considered: no audio tracks should ever be recorded, and the cameras should not be placed inside of the school buildings. Civil libertarian advocates must be assured that the system will fairly monitor students and not become intrusive.

If the school districts do agree to purchase video surveillance systems for their schools, they need to conduct adequate research and planning in order to make the new system constructive and beneficial for the students. And once the security systems are installed, school officials should evaluate their effectiveness at set times and adapt to future security challenges and students'