Glistening black domes, some larger than a grapefruit, loom in the hallways, stairs, locker bays, and other common spaces at Latin this year. Since their installation, these cameras have quickly drawn students’ attention, shaping their perception of safety on campus and sparking a mix of reactions.
“Security cameras have been present on [Latin’s] campus for over two decades,” Director of Operations Chanel King said. “The most recent work on this system was to replace aging technology and expand to areas that were lacking coverage in the past.”
Equipped with clearer images, improved zooming, and advanced search functions such as identifying specific colors or items, the upgraded system is designed to offer a higher level of security. “This level of detail will help us respond more effectively in emergencies or other critical situations,” Ms. King said.
Detailed planning for school security upgrades began last school year. The total cost was $440,000, Ms. King said. The project included the installation of 211 cameras, according to Latin’s IT Department. The Upper School alone received 91 of these new cameras, strategically placed to provide extensive coverage. While the advanced technology offers powerful surveillance capabilities, access to the footage is limited to authorized employees to ensure the system is managed safely and responsibly.
These efforts are not unique to Latin; the administration’s emphasis on safety reflects a nationwide trend. Many schools are reevaluating their security measures as the number of school shootings around the country has reached a high in recent years.
As these changes are implemented, the presence of cameras has raised varied reactions from students, ranging from reassured to apprehensive. Junior Prefect Ralu Nzelibe said, “These are high-tech. A little scary, but I think the administration has our best interests at heart.”
Sophomore Fia Bondy said, “I looked at them and I was like, ‘They’re definitely different.’” While she was disconcerted by the idea of being watched, Fia said the cameras would be useful in certain situations. “If anyone [broke] in and the police didn’t know where they were, [the administration] can see where they went.”
Sophomore Hadja Barry said she felt doubtful about how effective the cameras would actually be in emergencies. “At the end of the day, their job is to record—that’s it,” she said. “It would help if there was a school shooter and we caught them on camera, but other than that I don’t think the cameras will do anything else.”
While the cameras may take some getting used to, the administration maintains that this is a necessary step to ensure the continued safety of everyone at Latin. Ms. King said, “The enhancements we’ve made to the camera system allow us to stay current with technology while providing peace of mind to students, staff, and parents alike.”
