School shootings decreased in 2025, but experts are raising concerns that schools are overemphasizing security technology over preventative measures. A burgeoning school safety industry is increasingly marketing fear as a problem that can be solved through technological solutions, despite a lack of robust evidence supporting their effectiveness.

Many products promise quicker detection of potential threats, such as weapons, but their efficacy remains largely unproven. Research supporting these technologies is often limited, proprietary, or simply nonexistent. This reliance on technology can divert resources and attention from more fundamental approaches to school safety, such as mental health support and fostering positive school climates.

One notable example highlighted the potential for errors: an artificial intelligence (AI) detection software incorrectly identified a bag of Doritos as a firearm, triggering a significant police response. This incident underscores the risks associated with relying solely on technology for security and the potential for disruption and unnecessary alarm.

The focus on technology also raises questions about privacy and potential biases within these systems. While the reduction in school shootings is encouraging, experts argue that a more comprehensive strategy—one that prioritizes prevention and addresses the root causes of violence—is essential for long-term safety and well-being of students and staff.