MIAMI.- The Miami-Dade School Board’s analysis of the implementation of a security package in the district’s educational facilities that includes an artificial intelligence system valued at 17 million dollars is controversial.
The initiative to increase security arose after a discussion at a meeting attended by representatives of the school police, school principals, the superintendent and school board members.
The recommendation that was discussed was for the district to have a team of security specialists go around the different schools randomly searching students and their backpacks for weapons.
It was also considered that the district install Zero Eyesa video surveillance system that uses artificial intelligence to detect people carrying weapons near a campus and immediately contacts the police.
The controversy arises over the cost of the measures. The price of Zero Eyes and metal detection equipment will cost the public schools about $5 million over five years. The district would also spend another $17 million on security personnel.
In this context, Karla Hernández-Mats, president of the Miami-Dade teachers union, addressed a letter to the members of the Board and to Superintendent Dr. José L. Dotres expressing her concern about the expenditure of 22 million dollars.
“While safety is crucial, I am concerned about the potential impact on our teachers, professors, and staff, who are vital to maintaining our district’s A-rated status. These dedicated employees have not received raises or new contracts, and their contributions appear to be overlooked,” said Hernandez-Mats, who requested disclosure of where the funding for this initiative will come from and how it will affect the compensation of essential employees.
The decision has not yet been made; it must first be discussed in a committee next week and the Board will give the final decision the following week.
The Miami-Dade County School District’s budget totals more than $8.2 billion, providing for the education of 331,000 students and the salaries of 34,400 employees.
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