Over the years, the amount of school-related crimes has increased, with the most serious, school shootings, becoming a huge fear among those in the school system. Some landmark shootings, which include Sandy Hook and Columbine, signaled to people that a change needed to be made. 

The outrage was warranted: students and teachers alike should not be afraid of stepping into school every day. Articles were published, videos were made, and fundraisers were created to address this issue. For many schools in New York City, metal detectors were introduced as the solution. Over 100,000 public school students pass through metal detectors every day, with around 200,000 having attended schools with metal detectors. 

Recent failures surrounding the metal detectors at Park Slope Collegiate have led to conversations among students about their true efficiency. Students and staff alike regularly clash with security personnel and feel that the detectors actually negatively affect them daily. 

Since the beginning of the school year, there have been technical issues leaving the primary entrance for students in the morning, with only one metal detector. Lines could be seen stretching past the school entrance and around the corner. Students who arrived at school on time found themselves 30-35 minutes late to first period, missing potentially vital information, and ended up with another day marked late or potentially absent. 

One functioning metal detector machine is a logistical nightmare. Due to the need to speed up wait times, some items may be disregarded in an attempt to speed up the process. As the pressure to move large numbers of students into school each day increases, the quality of screening will inevitably decrease. 

Just two weeks ago, a student successfully bypassed the system and sneaked a bottle of bear mace to school. The student managed to spray others and caused a schoolwide evacuation. Fortunately, the incident ended without any major injuries, but for many, it shattered the illusion that metal detectors kept them completely safe in school. When lines were too long, or school security was too harsh, they repeated amongst themselves that it was okay, it’s all to keep us safe. After the incident, they have come to the conclusion that the metal detectors offer a false sense of security.    

After consulting a member of the school administration, they agree with the pressure that only one metal detector puts on security, but in this scenario, it would’ve been very hard to catch a bottle of bear mace.  They contend that through the X-ray machine, it looks very similar to the daily objects students bring into school, like deodorant or any type of aerosol bottle. 

Regardless, the presence of metal detectors can increase peace of mind for students, parents, and staff. When people know that security measures, like metal detectors, are in place, they may feel more protected and confident in school. 

Ultimately, the challenge for John Jay Campus is to find a balance. Safety within school is more than the absence of weapons, but also a stable, welcoming environment. By combining physical security measures like metal detectors with mental health support, there can be true safety in a supportive environment.