5 common security issues in schools
Date: Jun-09-2025
School’s out for summer! So, what better time than now to discuss safety within educational facilities.
School security can be a particularly challenging issue because solutions cannot be overly forceful or aggressive. For example, some people would argue that subjecting children and teenagers to routine patdowns for weapons or drugs creates a hostile learning environment and opportunities for racial profiling issues.
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On the other hand, school shootings happen far too often in the United States; schools are expected to do something to reduce tragic incidents from occurring.
Keeping staff, students and visitors safe in educational facilities requires a multifaceted approach, encompassing prevention, cybersecurity, and physical security considerations.
5 common security issues in schools
1. Cyber attacks
Cyber attacks have quickly become one of the most severe threats to schools. Ransomware incidents in particular have skyrocketed at an alarming rate, according to one report. Ransomware attacks on K-12 increased92% between 2022 and 2023. Higher education saw a 70% spike within the same time.
Ransomware attacks involve a person using malicious software to encrypt critical files. They demand a ransom for decryption. If the ransom is paid, the ransomware operator will either provide a copy of the private key used to protect the symmetric encryption key, or a copy of the symmetric encryption key itself. This information can be entered into a decryptor program (also provided by the cybercriminal) that can use it to reverse the encryption and restore access to files.
Many organizations will pay the fee since it is the easiest solution, but public schools aren’t exactly flush with cash. Ransomware attacks often lead to significant financial hardships for schools, as well as compromised data, disruptions and even temporary closures.
The solution
MFA
Defending against cybersecurity threats is an ongoing battle that requires multiple tactics. But multifactor authentication (MFA) is the best and easiest way for any individual or organization to safeguard data.
MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring at least two forms of authentication before granting access to a school platform or program. While it can be mildly inconvenient to staff and students, it can also be a major defence against unauthorized logins.
Cybersecurity education
Regular cybersecurity awareness training for staff and students is another great solution. The more informed people are, the less likely they are to make careless mistakes. Schools are encouraged to conduct regular cybersecurity training sessions to teach everyone about cyber threats like phishing and malware, as well as how to create better passwords and practice safe internet browsing.
Secure networks
Finally, schools can benefit from strengthening endpoint security for remote learning. With the growth of remote learning, securing devices outside of school premises is critical. Many cyberattacks take advantage of unsecured home networks or personal devices used to access school resources.
School-issued devices need built-in security. Install endpoint protection software on all student and faculty devices.
2. Inadequate access control
Access control is a cornerstone of physical security. Without reasonable barriers, unauthorized individuals will enter school buildings regularly.
While visitors aren’t inherently bad or dangerous, there will be individuals who come to the property to cause harm to others.
Without proper access control, schools are vulnerable to a variety of threats, including vandalism, violence, and theft.
The solution
The impact of enhanced physical access control cannot be underestimated. Addressing physical security issues begins with a controlled entry system that limits unauthorized access.
Buzzer systems
Schools have a few options to explore. Some have a buzzer system for secondary entrances/doors. There are usually cameras placed by the doors so that staff can see who they are speaking to.
Visitor policy
Schools can create visitor policies, requiring guests to check in at a designated area, but this system is hard to implement if guests are unaware of the policy. Clear signage can help direct visitors in the right direction.
Cards and scanners
High-tech solutions such as biometric scanners, key card access, and automated gates are more effective at restricting unauthorized access, but they can be expensive and slow down foot traffic if students are required to carry cards.
Security personnel
Finally, unarmed security personnel can be used to offer assistance to students and guests, and patrol the property during and after school.
3. Limited surveillance systems
Do surveillance cameras have a place in public schools? While some may have said “no” in the past, today, more people feel safer with them.
That being said, many schools still lack comprehensive surveillance systems, or are hanging on to outdated equipment. The absence of proper surveillance makes it difficult to monitor entrances, stairwells and hallways. Without reliable surveillance, schools miss incidents altogether, leaving them with a lot of questions and unclear answers.
The solution
High-resolution cameras and real-time alert features can help schools detect problems before they escalate. However, security or school staff must be trained to interpret and act on footage.
While cameras can’t physically stop someone from committing a crime, AI-powered monitoring systems can take security a step further by triggering alerts. These could be audible to intruders if the goal is to scare them off, or alerts could be sent automatically to the people responsible for responding to incidents.
Security personnel can review footage in real time, ensuring immediate intervention if a threat arises.
4. Fire and weather hazards
Old building materials and insufficient fire prevention measures put many schools at risk. Public schools have been standing for decades, and structural improvements don’t occur often.
Poor ventilation and a lack of fire suppression systems can allow fires to spread rapidly, making it harder for staff and students to escape a fire or weather emergency.
The solution
Regular evacuation drills, clear emergency protocols, and reliable communication systems that facilitate quick notifications are essential to ensure the safety of everyone on the premises.
When people are trained to follow emergency protocols instinctively, response times improve, and panic is reduced.
Furthermore, K-12 school buildings located in areas where storms or tornadoes generate winds of up to 250 miles/hour are required to be built to ICC 500 standards.
But even without requirements, schools should look at what structural updates can be completed to improve building safety and increase fire resistance.
5. Gun violence
The Baker Institute estimates that, over the past quarter of a century, approximately 311,000 children have been exposed to gun violence in school settings.
The U.S. has the highest number of intentional school shootings by far, and with nearly 100,000 K-12 public schools nationally, a comprehensive school gun violence prevention strategy is critical.
Most K-12 schools consider the prevention of gun violence to be a part of their emergency preparedness efforts, but preventive strategies would be more effective.
The solution
Gun violence cannot be solved by school facilities alone. It will require legislative change and better social support systems to make a real, long-term difference. But, schools can implement strategies to improve safety for students and staff.
Limiting entry points, installing panic alarms, and requiring some type of weapon detectors can be effective. There are modern screening technology solutions that make the monitoring process more objective and less aggressive.
Some feel that gun safety should be taught in schools by a police officer or trained military professional.
More student programs could also help teachers connect with kids and give them an opportunity to identify children who may be struggling, but limited resources make this a challenge.
Conclusion
Effective school security requires a multifaceted approach, and solutions must be assessed and updated since threats are never static.
Combine physical and cybersecurity strategies, and get staff and students involved wherever possible.