A new and exciting artificial intelligence tool known as VOLT AI is being piloted at three MCPS schools, including B-CC, to help improve security and make schools a safer and less stressful environment. VOLT AI stands for Violence Observation and Lead Tracking, and uses artificial intelligence to help staff detect threats sooner and respond more quickly to emergencies. The system works with security cameras around the school building to detect weapons, fights, or other potential threats to the school. VOLT AI was launched on March 2nd at Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School and plans to be launched at Seneca Valley High and Magruder High School around the same time.
Some staff members are optimistic about the new technology. Ms.Ingalls, an IB Sport and Biology teacher at B-CC, shared, “I think it looks really interesting and could be a really useful tool to help keep our staff and students safer,” she said.
Students, however, have mixed reactions; some are skeptical about whether the cameras will actually improve safety. Sophomore Wren Stout said, “I’d like to see them work, because I just feel like they won’t.” Stout continued, “I don’t think it’s going to prevent much of anything. I think a better investment would have been metal detectors…. I don’t think the cameras are going to be as effective as some may assume.”
Other students are concerned about privacy. Issac Biel shared strong opposition to the new system, saying, “I feel like there’s definitely ways for this to go horribly wrong.”
Still, some students support the addition. Student Dez Markarian believes, “As long as they’re keeping the students of Bethesda-Chevy-Chase High School safe, then they’re a great addition to the school.” “We shouldn’t have to worry about our safety inside or outside of school,” Markarian said.
As the pilot program continues, MCPS will likely evaluate the effectiveness of VOLT AI in improving school safety. For now, the system has sparked debate among staff and students about the balance among security, privacy, and a safe school environment.
