Guest article by Dr. Stephen Bucheli Bayne
While the recent ASIS proposed standards for school security are positioned as a necessary advancement for ensuring safer educational environments, several critical aspects warrant reconsideration:
- Overemphasis on Physical Security Measures: When implemented properly by local collaboration, physical security measures can enhance the protection of school buildings and their occupants. However, the proposed ASIS standards place a substantial focus on physical security measures, essentially mandating all schools across the country adhere to strict standards that may or may not address the safety and security needs of unique communities. Research suggests that through closer coordination with educators, local law enforcement, fire departments, emergency medical services, public safety personnel, security experts, and mental health professionals, schools can become much safer environments. Furthermore, and most importantly, schools need to work together with stakeholders to implement identified priorities for individual campuses.
- Potential for Increased Stress and Anxiety: The implementation of stringent security protocols can inadvertently create an atmosphere of fear and anxiety among students and staff. The perception of being in a highly controlled environment may detract from the sense of safety and trust that is essential for a positive learning experience. It is important to consider how these measures might impact the psychological well-being of students and whether they contribute to a supportive learning environment.
- Financial Implications and Resource Allocation: The adoption of comprehensive security measures often involves significant financial investments. Schools, particularly those in underfunded districts, might find it challenging to allocate resources towards these new standards. The financial strain could divert funds from other critical safety and security programs, such as campus security personnel, emergency two-way radio infrastructure, or other safety tools and technology that the school, in collaboration with their local community, found to be a pressing need.
- Effectiveness and Evidence-Based Practice: While the ASIS standards are designed to enhance security, there is limited empirical evidence demonstrating their effectiveness in preventing school violence. The standards might be based on best practices but lack robust data proving that they lead to tangible improvements in safety outcomes. It’s crucial to evaluate whether these standards are backed by substantial evidence and whether schools across the country can attain and sustain the stringent standards they propose.
- One-Size-Fits-All Approach: The new standards appear to adopt a one-size-fits-all approach, failing to account for the unique needs and contexts of different schools. Schools vary widely in size, location, and community dynamics, and a standardized set of measures might not address specific local safety and security challenges. Tailoring security measures to the unique characteristics of each school could be more beneficial than applying a uniform set of standards that may be counter-productive for safer schools.
In conclusion, while the new ASIS standards aim to improve school security, it is essential to critically assess their impact on the broader educational environment. Emphasizing physical security might overlook other vital aspects of school safety and well-being. Schools must consider a holistic approach that integrates emotional support, community engagement, and evidence-based practices to create a genuinely safe and nurturing learning environment.
Dr. Stephen Bucheli Bayne: With over 35 years of combined experience in PreK-12 law enforcement, risk management, insurance, and safety, Stephen Bucheli Bayne, Ed.D. is the Principal Consultant at Framework Synergy Solutions LLC, a company that provides comprehensive and customized solutions for PreK-12 school safety and emergency management.
Website: FrameworkSynergySolutions.com
Email: Stephen@FrameworkSynergySolutions.com
Copyright and Disclaimer: The above comments were NOT submitted as part of the ASIS consensus process. The author chooses not to be a part of that process. The author’s name and the content of this post are not authorized for use including by ASIS or with its standard creation processes.