Beyond the Threshold Podcast | Ep 4 | Tech for Good: How School Safety Innovations are shaping safer, supportive learning environments

Introduction

School safety and security have become increasingly complex issues, requiring the collaboration of entire communities—families, educators, students, and local authorities. As school administrators navigate this evolving landscape, they must balance multiple considerations, from physical security measures to fostering a culture of safety. With the rise of threats in schools, administrators are turning to a range of resources, including law enforcement, peer districts, security professionals, and emerging technologies, to develop comprehensive safety strategies.

In our fourth Beyond the Threshold™ podcast episode, Anil Chitkara, Evolv's Co-Founder and Chief Growth Officer sits down with Jill Lemond, Evolv's VP of Education, to explore the key factors shaping school safety today, including the role of community involvement, the importance of peer learning, and the effectiveness of different security measures. From understanding the distinctions between gunshot detection, brandished weapons detection, and concealed weapons detection to evaluating the legitimacy of security consultants, schools must take a thoughtful and informed approach to their security planning. Beyond technology and procedures, fostering a culture of safety remains crucial in creating environments where students and staff feel both protected and empowered.

Key Takeaways

• The Power of Community in School Safety – Effective school security extends beyond administrators; it involves collaboration with parents, local law enforcement, educators, and students. Engaging the broader community ensures that safety measures align with the unique needs and concerns of each school.
• Learning from Peer Districts – Schools facing security decisions can benefit from the experiences of peer districts that have implemented or opted against specific security measures. These shared insights help administrators make informed choices based on real-world applications and outcomes.
• Understanding and Implementing Security Technologies – From gunshot detection to brandished and concealed weapons detection, different technologies serve distinct purposes in enhancing school safety. Schools must evaluate their unique security needs before selecting and implementing the right solutions.
• Building a Culture of Safety – Beyond security infrastructure, fostering a culture of safety is critical. Schools that successfully integrate security measures with trust-building and proactive safety education create environments where students and staff feel both secure and supported.