College Community Schools Implement AI Weapon Detection System

AI is becoming a part of all of our lives. The question is, how will we use this new technology that seemingly changes every day? Some school districts, including the College Community School District in Cedar Rapids, are using AI tools in an effort to keep students safe.

Schools Using AI to Detect Weapons

The Cedar Rapids Gazette reports that College Community Schools is the latest Iowa school district to use AI technology in an effort to detect weapons in schools. The district has contracted with ZeroEyes, a security service that uses AI in its security systems. At least 15 other school districts in the state also work with the company, according to the Gazette. 

How Does ZeroEyes Technology Work?

ZeroEyes AI technology works with the school's existing cameras and security measures already in place. It helps speed up response times by quickly locating a threat, the type of gun being used, and getting that information to school officials and law enforcement, according to the Gazette. 

The Gazette reports that College Community Superintendent Doug Wheeler stated that "ZeroEyes is a critical and proactive step that integrates cutting-edge AI technology into our already multilayered security framework."

What Does ZeroEyes Cost the School District?

The Gazette reports that College Community Schools entered into a five-year contract with ZeroEyes earlier this year. It costs the district $34,800 per year plus a $5,000 initial fee for the first year.

In a press release this week, the school district stated that the ZeroEyes technology will complement the district's multilayered approach to security and safety.