Between 2009-2010 and 2013-2014, the rate of violent incidents at U.S. public schools decreased, while at the same time, the use of security equipment and training increased. That’s according to a new federal study released today.
Although 65 percent of the nation’s schools reported at least one violent incident in 2013-2014, that rate is six percentage points less than the rate in 2009-2010 (74 percent), reports the Washington Post. Additionally, last year 15 violent incidents per 1,000 students were reported, compared to 25 for every 1,000 students in 2009-2010.
K-12 campuses reported serious violence, such as rape, attempted rate, fighting with a weapon and robbery, fell by three percentage points, from 16 percent in 2009-2010 to 13 percent last year.
While the rate of reported incidents declined, the use of video surveillance increased. As of last year, three out of four schools have deployed security cameras. Additionally, 88 percent of schools had written a plan for active shooter scenarios, reports WISHTV.
Other highlights of the report include:
- 90 percent of U.S. public high schools and 53 percent of elementary schools reported a violent incident
- 75 percent of schools in 2013-2014 used security cameras, compared to 61 percent in 2009-2010
- 5 percent say student sexual harassment happens every month
- The percentage of schools using electronic emergency notification systems rose from 63 percent to 82 percent
- 70 percent had students participate in an active shooter drill in 2013-2014, compared to 52 percent in 2009-2010
- The percentage of schools banning cell phone dropped by 15 points, from 91 percent in 2010 to 76 percent last year
The Washington Post reports that the new report was compiled using different methodologies than in 2009-2010.
