Reducing the Risks

School security measures that can help reduce the risks of terrorism while also reducing the risks of other types of school security incidents:

  • School safety web training systems
  • Visitor management software
  • Properly trained and armed school security and/or law enforcement personnel assigned to schools
  • Training in pattern matching and recognition
  • Involvement of law enforcement, fire service, emergency management and public health officials in school crisis planning
  • External school security assessments conducted by a firm with anti-terrorist qualifications
  • Proximity card systems
  • Training in visual weapons screening
  • Security laminate film
  • Drills which require independent judgement of staff
  • Ballistic laminate film for key glass areas
  • Duress button systems
  • Virtual tours of school facilities for use in emergency situations
  • Emergency notification systems
  • Portable radios for key staff
  • Fencing
  • External numbering of doors
  • The use of Knox boxes to provide keys to first responders
  • Thoughtfully implemented school security camera systems

This article originally appeared in the issue of .

Featured

  • Geometric abstract school illustration

    How Design Shapes Learning and Success

    Can the color of a wall, the curve of a chair, or the hum of fluorescent lights really affect how a student learns? More schools are beginning to think so.

  • Academy of Classical Education Breaks Ground in Louisiana

    Charter Schools USA (CSUSA) recently announced the groundbreaking of a new public charter school in Covington, La., according to a news release. The Academy of Classical Education at Covington will enroll students in grades K–8 and is scheduled for completion in August 2026, just in time for the new school year.

  • Rhode Island Boarding School Completes Student Dorm Renovations

    St. George’s School in Middletown, R.I., recently announced the completion of a $26-million renovation project on Arden-Diman-Eccles Dormitory, according to a news release. The school partnered with Voith & Mactavish Architects (VMA) on the new space, which places a new focus on collaborative community spaces open to both boarding students and day students.

  • Illinois District Boosts Security at High-School Stadium

    Richmond-Burton Community High School in Richmond, Ill., recently announced that it has completed the redesigned entrance to its high school stadium with a new focus on school security and community engagement, according to a news release. The district partnered with Wold Architects and Engineers on the project as part of District #157’s year-long facilities master plan.