Back to School Survey Results—Summary and Takeaways
A survey of school security leaders found that despite budget constraints and concerns over unauthorized access and vandalism, schools are actively planning to modernize security with expanded camera systems, better technology integration, and increased staff training.
Each new school year brings not only the excitement of learning but also the responsibility of keeping students and staff safe. To better understand the challenges schools face, LiveView Technologies (LVT) conducted a Back to School Security Survey. The survey gathered feedback from school leaders and security professionals about their biggest concerns regarding school safety, the tools they’re currently using, and where they plan to focus their efforts in the coming years.
The results reveal both urgent needs and forward-looking priorities that will shape the future of school security.
Key Findings from the Survey
The survey responses reveal clear patterns in the security challenges schools face today and where they are focusing their efforts to improve. The following key findings highlight the most pressing concerns, current tools in use, and future priorities for campus safety.
Current Security Challenges
When asked about their most significant physical security challenges, respondents frequently highlighted:
- Unauthorized access and trespassing
- Vandalism and theft
- Monitoring large or remote areas
- Outdated security technology
- Lack of security staff
Underlying these challenges is a consistent theme: budget limitations. 64% of respondents noted that financial constraints were the main challenge their school community faced in providing adequate security. Nearly 80% of responders reported that these limitations required their organization to make tradeoffs in security—half reported a much more significant impact, noting that their security was hindered or even compromised.
After-Hours and Large-Event Concerns
Survey responses showed that school security challenges extended well beyond regular instructional hours. Many administrators expressed concern about trespassing and authorized access to events (64%). Other main concerns included: low visibility in remote or poorly lit areas, vandalism and property damage, and theft of equipment during events.
In addition, a third of responders were concerned about the challenges regarding crowd control and emergency response during large-scale events such as sporting competitions, performances, and community gatherings. These findings emphasize the need for continuous, adaptable security measures that protect school grounds at all hours and during all types of activities no matter the location or lighting.
Current Technology in Use
The survey indicates that most schools rely on a combination of established and emerging security technologies to protect their campuses. Key findings included:
- CCTV and video surveillance systems were used by all respondents, making them the most universally implemented security measure.
- Approximately two-thirds of schools employ on-site resource officers or security guards to provide a human presence and respond quickly to incidents.
- Nearly half of the respondents reported having alarm systems in place to alert staff to potential threats and unauthorized access.
- Many schools also use access control systems, such as card readers, to regulate entry and track movement across facilities.
It is important to note that mobile security units or portable surveillance towers were the least common technology reported, highlighting an opportunity for schools to adopt more flexible and responsive monitoring solutions.
Future Priorities and Areas of Focus
When asked about their primary security priorities for the next two to five years, respondents identified a clear shift toward modernization, integration, and preparedness. Many schools plan to expand camera coverage both inside and outside their facilities; one respondent specified specifically wanting to incorporate advanced capabilities such as AI-based analytics and gunshot detection. The majority of respondents also indicated a desire to increase the number of trained security personnel.
Several also noted plans to improve integration with local emergency services, ensuring faster, more coordinated responses in critical situations. Regular emergency drills and preparedness training were cited as a plan to improve security and safety on campuses.
Finally, many participants highlighted the need to balance physical and digital security, acknowledging that the growing interconnection between technology systems requires unified oversight and continuous updates. Across all responses, there was a shared focus on sustainable, scalable solutions—investments that will evolve with changing threats and provide long-term value rather than short-term fixes.
Takeaways
The survey findings reveal that schools across the country are navigating a complex balance between immediate security needs and long-term goals. While threats such as trespassing, vandalism, and theft remain top concerns, many schools are constrained by limited budgets, staffing shortages, and aging technology.
Despite these challenges, respondents are proactively seeking ways to modernize their systems by investing in expanded camera coverage, improved security response plans, better communication tools, and stronger coordination with emergency services.
A key theme throughout the survey is the recognition that effective school security depends on both people and technology. Schools are looking for solutions that enhance visibility, streamline response times, and make the most of existing resources. The move toward AI-enabled analytics, mobile surveillance options, and integrated platforms that can provide real-time updates reflects a broader shift to more adaptive and data-informed protection strategies.
Ultimately, these insights show that school safety is a pressing concern. By prioritizing scalable, future-ready technologies and continuous staff training, schools can create safer environments that support learning and peace of mind for students, educators, and families alike.
School security is about more than just protecting buildings. The real power of a school comes when it ensures students, staff, and the community are safe, too. The survey shows schools are eager to modernize but need solutions that balance cost, flexibility, and effectiveness.
