From fire drills to school resource officers, school safety measures have evolved in response to a constantly changing world. Because of the increased use of online platforms, social media is used to make threats against schools around the country.
In 2024, the United States saw more than 1,905 threats against schools and 536 incidents, according to The Educator’s School Safety Network. The number of violent incidents has increased by more than 300% since 2016.
Building security has changed significantly over the years in the Iowa City Community School District (ICCSD).
Debra Carlson (she/her), a math teacher at Liberty spoke on her teaching experience.
“My first district had some threats and the school would take precautions by doing bag/coat/body checks when students arrived. That school would also have daily visits by the officer to walk around and show their presence in the building,” said Carlson.
The ICCSD has had numerous threats throughout the past ten years. Because of this, safety measures are constantly evolving to keep students and staff safe.
“[Some] changes [in schools] would be that technology/cameras have improved since I started. As more research is done, things will continue to improve or change,” Carlson added.
Liberty’s attendance secretary Deb Wagner (she/her) has worked in the ICCSD for 14 years.
“Secure entrances are the biggest change in all of the buildings in the district. Doors are locked during the school day. Visitors are required to buzz into the building and office staff need to be aware of who is coming and going all day,” stated Wagner.
Wagner’s responsibilities for maintaining school safety have increased dramatically.
“[Other examples include] gates around playground equipment… to supervisor para (educators) in the hallways,” Wagner explained.
However, as school policies continue to change, the priority remains the same: ensuring the safety and well-being of every student and staff member.
Looking to the future, schools will continue to adapt and innovate, addressing new challenges and ensuring that every school remains a safe, supportive place for everyone to thrive.
