Prince George’s County Public Schools is making a significant commitment to enhancing school safety through the integration of artificial intelligence technology, even in the face of budget constraints. At the district’s State of Schools event, Interim Superintendent Dr. Shawn Joseph detailed a four-year plan that will allocate over $6 million to bolster safety measures, starting primarily with the high schools.
Amidst a student body that can range from 2,000 to 3,000 in each high school, Dr. Joseph emphasized the importance of ensuring a safe environment. The investment will cover various cutting-edge safety technologies, which include AI weapons detection systems, facial recognition technology, expanded surveillance cameras, and license plate readers on school campuses. Dr. Joseph stated, “Kids and staff are safe. The technology helps us do that,” underscoring the district’s commitment to creating a secure learning space.
Alongside this focus on safety, the district is grappling with a challenging financial landscape. With a budget of approximately $3 billion, the district is seeking to find savings of about $150 million. While specific cuts were not detailed during the announcement, Dr. Joseph mentioned that certain low-enrollment programs and redundant offerings would likely face elimination, and the district anticipates cutting between 80 to 100 positions as part of this strategy. Some staff may be reassigned to other duties to mitigate the impact of these cuts.
Dr. Joseph has been in his role as interim superintendent for more than 100 days and is working to navigate these significant fiscal challenges while prioritizing the safety and well-being of students and staff. This dual focus on modern safety technology and strategic budget management reflects a proactive approach to contemporary educational challenges, with the hope that these measures will lead to a safer and more stable environment for all.