Digital Response Drill 2.0 – Cameras on campus
Your school’s staff is discussing the pros and cons of installing surveillance cameras throughout campus, including in classrooms. What are some of the things they need to consider?
Note: The question of whether or not cameras should be installed in classrooms is complex. All stakeholders in the school community should be given the opportunity to weigh in on why this is (or is not) a good idea. There are legal, social, emotional, and instructional pros and cons. The articles listed below were selected to help begin the conversation but are by no means a comprehensive review of all issues, nor is this meant to offer legal advice. Articles published by companies that offer security services are not included here.
Activity
Discuss the following questions:
What is the purpose for installing cameras in classrooms and where would they be located?
How will cameras impact security on campus and what laws cover electronic surveillance?
What are the student and staff privacy issues that must be addressed and how does FERPA (the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act) impact use of cameras?
Do parents and law enforcement officers have the right to view surveillance videos?
Are surveillance videos subject to open records laws? Why or why not?
What policies need to be in place?
Create one of the following:
A list of pros and cons of installing surveillance equipment on campus.
A survey for parents to gauge their thoughts about installing surveillance equipment on campus.
Additional Resources
Digital Response Drill 2.0