New Mexico High School Pilots AI Technology to Enhance Campus Security
V. Sue Cleveland High School in Rio Rancho, New Mexico, has taken a bold step to ensure the safety of its students and staff by implementing cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) technology. In a pilot program that started at the beginning of the academic year, the high school has introduced EVOLV Technology, an advanced system designed to detect hidden weapons, including guns.
With safety being a top priority, the introduction of EVOLV Technology adds an extra layer of security to the existing measures already in place at Cleveland High School. These measures include fencing, concrete-filled posts, and security cameras. The decision to implement this high-tech security system comes after a distressing incident in 2019 when a student entered the campus with a gun and opened fire in the hallway.
The EVOLV Technology system utilizes a scanner to analyze individuals as they pass through, scanning for objects that resemble the shape, size, and material of a weapon. If any object triggers the system, the student may be subjected to additional security screening, ensuring that potential threats are proactively addressed.
This pilot program is expected to cost the district approximately $136,000 per year and run until the end of the school year. Once evaluated, Rio Rancho Public Schools plans to expand the use of this technology to other schools within the district, promoting the safety and well-being of students and staff across the board.
The implementation of AI technology at Cleveland High School has received mixed reactions from the public. Supporters argue that the use of such advanced systems enables schools to stay one step ahead of potential security threats, providing peace of mind for parents, teachers, and students. They believe that the investment in cutting-edge technology is necessary in today’s world to protect the learning environment.
However, critics of the initiative have raised concerns regarding the potential invasion of privacy and its impact on student-individuality. They worry that the use of AI technology may create an atmosphere of constant surveillance and hinder personal freedom. Balancing the need for security with individual rights is a complex issue that demands careful attention and ongoing evaluation.
As the pilot program progresses, students, staff, and the wider community eagerly await the results and effectiveness of the EVOLV Technology. The ultimate goal is to create a safer learning environment for everyone involved.
In conclusion, V. Sue Cleveland High School in New Mexico’s Rio Rancho district is spearheading the use of AI technology to detect hidden weapons on campus. By taking this proactive approach to campus security, Cleveland High School aims to ensure the safety and well-being of its students and staff. As the pilot program unfolds, it will be interesting to see the impact and effectiveness of this innovative solution in maintaining a secure learning environment for all.
