In today’s world, school leaders face a difficult but crucial question: is security staff a necessity for keeping students safe? In response to gun violence, bullying, and other external threats, schools — public, private, and faith-based alike — are increasingly adopting professional security services to enhance their overall safety strategy.

Below, we’ll break down the pros and cons of hiring school security, and how additional technology solutions can further enhance protection.

The Benefits of Hiring Security for Schools

1. Deterring Crime
The visible presence of trained security officers discourages trespassing, vandalism, and other potential threats.

2. Immediate Emergency Response
If an incident occurs, having a professional on-site means faster action while waiting for law enforcement or medical personnel.

3. Reducing Bullying and Student Conflicts
Security personnel can serve as an extra set of eyes in hallways, cafeterias, and common areas — helping to diffuse tensions and prevent escalation.

4. Enhancing Overall Safety
From visitor management to after-school events, security officers help create a safe and orderly environment.

5. Monitoring and Access Control
Officers can enforce visitor check-ins, monitor entrances, and control who enters or exits school grounds.

6. Parental Peace of Mind
Parents feel reassured knowing the school has invested in proactive measures to protect their children.

The Challenges of Hiring Security

1. Cost
Hiring trained professionals is an investment that may strain smaller school budgets.

2. Perception of Safety
Some worry that the presence of guards could make a school feel less welcoming or signal that the environment is unsafe. However, schools can work to balance security with a warm, positive culture.

Want an Extra Layer of Protection?

Hiring a security guard is just one component of a comprehensive school safety strategy. Schools can further enhance their security posture by leveraging Bailey’s Promise, a program that provides free access to AI-powered firearm detection software. This initiative allows schools to utilize their existing security cameras to detect visible firearms in real time, triggering immediate alerts to staff and emergency responders. By integrating this technology, schools can bolster their proactive safety measures, ensuring a safer environment for students and staff.

For added coverage, technology-driven RAD solutions can further enhance school security:

• ROSA – An autonomous security sentinel that detects threats, monitors activity, and sends real-time alerts.

• RIO – A solar-powered security tower that can host ROSA units for 360° campus coverage.

By combining Bailey’s Promise with RAD solutions, schools gain both human expertise and advanced technology — creating a multi-layered security approach that’s proactive, responsive, and flexible.

Take the Next Step

If you’re interested in enhancing your school’s security with professional services or RAD technology, reach out to:

Nick Goolsby
Director of Sales & Business Development
Email: nickgoolsby@dksecurity.com
Phone: (313) 462-4473