School Safety Tech: A $4B Industry or False Hope for 2025?
The school safety industry is booming, projected to be worth $4 billion in 2025. Fueled by tragic events, like the Minneapolis school shooting last month, companies are developing technologies aimed at preventing gun violence in schools. But is this burgeoning industry truly effective, or is it offering a false sense of security?
The Rise of School Safety Technology
In Metamora, Ohio, Evergreen Local School District invested in a system called 911inform, using $300,000 in state safety grants. This technology aims to improve communication between school leaders and first responders during emergencies. According to Shannon Torres, a former police chief and customer success manager for 911inform, the system acts as a “crystal ball” for first responders.
911inform allows first responders to access school security systems, such as cameras and door locks, when a 911 call is made. This access enables them to lock down or open doors remotely and identify the best route to reach the emergency. The goal is to shift the response from reactive to proactive and preventative.
Concerns About Effectiveness
However, some experts question the effectiveness of these technologies. Sonali Rajan, senior director with the research arm of Everytown for Gun Safety, points out that “the vast majority [of school safety products] have absolutely no evidence guiding their effectiveness.”
The rapid growth of the school safety industry raises concerns about whether these products are truly making schools safer or simply profiting from fear. It's crucial for policymakers to carefully evaluate the evidence before investing in these technologies.
- Increased communication: Systems like 911inform can improve communication during emergencies.
- Faster response times: Technology can help first responders react more quickly.
- Potential for misuse: Access to school security systems raises privacy concerns.
- Lack of evidence: Many school safety products lack evidence of effectiveness.
The United States stands alone in having its own 'school shooting industry'. While the intention to protect students is laudable, it's essential to ensure that these investments are based on sound evidence and not just driven by fear and profit.