How Technology Can Help Maintain Momentum
As reported by Campus Safety Magazine:
“The 2024-2025 school year recorded a 22.5% reduction in school shootings compared to the previous year, marking the end of a three-year period of heightened gun violence in schools (2021-2022 to 2023-2024).
According to the K-12 School Shooting Database, school shootings stood at 254 incidents for 2024-2025, a significant drop from an average of nearly 330 incidents per year in the preceding three school years. This decline also extends into the 2025 calendar year thus far, offering an optimistic outlook.
Notably, while this progress is promising, the number of shootings is still more than double the rate of U.S. school shootings 25 years ago. It’s also much higher than in other developed countries like Japan, Australia, the UK and South Korea.”
While these figures are encouraging, there is still much work to do, and technology can play a major role in building on this progress. By adopting the right tools and creating a layered safety strategy, schools can intervene earlier, communicate faster, and reduce the likelihood of a shooting incident altogether.
Below are six types of tools that can help schools maintain momentum and continue improving campus safety.
1. Visitor Management Systems
The front entrance is often the first opportunity to deter a threat. Visitor management systems require every guest to check in, present a valid form of identification, and follow standardized entry procedures. These systems help prevent unauthorized individuals from simply walking in unchecked. This adds a critical layer of accountability and can deter people with ill intent from attempting to enter because they know they cannot do so unnoticed.
2. AI-Powered Video Surveillance
Traditional security cameras are passive by design. They record footage, but someone needs to be watching to spot a threat. Adding AI video surveillance takes this a step further. With features like weapon detection, AI can help security personnel identify potential threats in real time. AI doesn’t replace human oversight, but it dramatically enhances it—turning your cameras into proactive tools that give safety teams the insights they need the moment they need them..
3. Anonymous Tip Lines
Many school shootings are preceded by warning signs—but not everyone feels comfortable reporting concerns. Anonymous tip lines offer a safe and confidential way for students, parents, and staff to share information without fear of backlash. This can encourage early reporting of threats or concerning behavior, enabling schools to route alerts to the appropriate safety personnel
Creating a culture of speaking up, with an accessible and anonymous method, is one of the most effective ways to catch potential threats early.
4. Gunshot Detection Systems
When a gun goes off, every second matters. Gunshot detection systems use acoustic sensors to recognize the sound of a gunshot in real time. Once detected, the system can automatically initiate lockdown procedures, alert first responders, and notify everyone on campus. With gunshot detection, schools can identify the exact location of the gunfire, activate their emergency response protocols instantly, and provide first responders with real-time intelligence. These systems reduce delays and confusion when timing is critical.
5. Panic Buttons
When someone witnesses a threat or senses something is wrong, they need a fast, discreet way to call for help. Panic buttons make that possible.
Schools have several options:
- Mounted panic buttons under desks or on walls
- Virtual panic buttons on computers or desk phones
- Mobile apps and wearable devices
These tools instantly alert school officials, activate emergency notifications, and can even connect directly to local first responders. For states that mandate panic alert systems under Alyssa’s Law, they also help schools meet compliance requirements.
6. Mass Notification Systems
Effective communication is the backbone of any emergency response. Mass notification systems allow schools to send alerts via text, phone call, email, desktop pop-ups, digital signage, and in-building audio systems—all from a single interface. This enables schools to lock down campuses within seconds, provide clear instructions, and even send an “all-clear” when the threat has passed.
With one system that integrates with everything a school leverages for safety and communication, schools can activate and manage all their alerts, eliminating delays and ensuring everyone receives consistent information, fast.
Building a Layered Approach
No single solution can solve every safety challenge. The tools above work best as part of a comprehensive, layered approach to school safety.
Other tools to consider include:
- Metal detectors at main entrances
- Door access control systems
- Emergency preparedness training for staff and students
Ultimately, each school should assess its current protocols, identify vulnerabilities, and fill the gaps with solutions that match their specific needs.
A Safer Future Requires Ongoing Effort
The recent drop in school shootings is worth recognizing, but it doesn’t mean the problem is solved. It’s a sign that progress is possible—especially when schools combine people, processes, and tools in thoughtful, proactive ways.
The path to safer schools isn’t just about reacting to threats. It’s about preventing them, preparing for them, and communicating clearly when they arise.
If you’re wondering what more you can do to protect our students and staff, we have solutions that can help. Explore our InformaCast page to learn more.