NCJ Number
75894
Journal
AMERICAN SCHOOL AND UNIVERSITY Volume: 49 Issue: 1 Dated: (September 1976) Pages: 38-40,42-43
Date Published
1976
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article examines the advantages and disadvantages of two major approaches to school security: (1) systems using guards and (2) systems using electronic survelliance devices.
Abstract
Innovative approaches to school security include employing ex-police officers equipped with guard dogs and cultivating student informers, student guard and college intern programs. Another school district program in Clark County, Nev. which uses 23 armed guards, patrol cars, and attack dogs reduced vandalism costs by $53,000 in the first year; now, yearly vandalism costs average $40,000. Electronic alarm systems include infrared sensors and sound detection devices. School security officers who used equipment rather than guards indicated that the high costs of guard services were the major reason for doing so. By installing a $112,000 integrated system, the Alexandria, Va. School District was able to realize a $192,000 annual payroll savings by eliminating guard services. Moreover, efficient security guards were also difficult to recruit and retain. Other security officers, however, point out that electronic systems are so highly sensitive that they generate frequent false alarms. These systems make building access during off hours by teachers difficult.