Where I live, one school board plans to install security cameras and lock remote-access doors in all of its elementary schools. Under a pilot project at six schools last year, school staff used an intercom to talk to visitors and could view them on a monitor. Staff could then unlock the doors if the visitors on camera were safe. Parents were surveyed following the pilot project, with sixty-three percent saying it that it created a safer environment.

Five of the six schools supported the initiative, but one principal called it a waste of staff time that made school less welcoming. It'll cost 150k.

Do you think this sort of thing is a good idea?

I doubt it would do much good, however if the cameras could catch any bullying on it, well then the little bastards can't say they didn't do anything.

I see no reason why not. It's 2012, IMO every building where the public goes in and out should be surveillanced.

What, like visitors have to be buzzed in like some apartment buildings? I don't think it's necessary (the locks) and they better not be talking about locking exit doors from the inside. Security cameras? Eh. You have no idea how often you're under surveillance through out a typical day.