Montgomery County Public Schools will launch a month-long pilot program at three high schools to see if AI is the answer to its school safety issues.
While discussion has revolved around metal detectors and returning student resources officers into the schools, MCPS is looking into another option. VOLT-AI will be tested at Bethesda Chevy-Chase, Col. Zadok Magruder and Seneca Valley high schools beginning March 2.
Violence Observation & Lead Tracking (VOLT) is an AI-supported school safety tool designed to help staff notice and respond to potential safety concerns more quickly, according to the school district. It works with existing school security cameras in public areas to flag certain situations that appear to require attention.
If something is flagged, trained school staff review the information immediately and decide whether a response is needed. A human always reviews the information and determines the appropriate response, according to MCPS.
VOLT-AI will not monitor student devices or their social media and does not use facial recognition or identify students by name. It does track students from one school camera to the next and monitor or record audio. It will operate in classrooms, restrooms and private spaces.
As a recent parent, teacher, student meeting at Bethesda-Chevy Chase high school, MCPS Director of Security Marcus Jones said the pilot program will not cost the school district any money, according to the Parents’ Coalition of Montgomery County.
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