ZeroEyes, the developer of an advanced multi-analytics weapons detection and threat intelligence platform, has implemented its AI gun detection and situational awareness software at Colby Public Schools in Kansas. This deployment aims to enhance the safety of students, staff, and visitors by identifying gun-related threats proactively.
Situated in the northwestern Kansas countryside, Colby Public Schools educates roughly 950 students distributed across an elementary school, middle school, and high school, supported by a 175-member staff. The district's supportive atmosphere promotes strong bonds between students, staff, and the local community.
Funding for the initiative was obtained through the Kansas Safe and Secure Firearm Detection Grant Program, facilitated by the Office of the Kansas Attorney General, enabling the purchase and deployment of ZeroEyes technology. This grant emerged from collaborations with local law enforcement and community leaders, identifying AI gun detection as key to fulfilling broader safety objectives.
Proactive security measure
Lucas Schnider, IT Director at Colby Public Schools, highlighted the technology's proactive edge, stating, “As a smaller district, we don’t have the resources to dedicate someone to monitoring cameras at all times. ZeroEyes acts as an extra set of eyes to catch something we might otherwise miss. Most security tools are reactive, but this gives us a proactive way to respond and better protect our students and staff.”
The ZeroEyes platform integrates with existing digital security cameras to identify firearms
The ZeroEyes platform integrates with existing digital security cameras to identify firearms. Upon detection, images are promptly forwarded to the ZeroEyes Operations Center (ZOC), a fully in-house facility located in the U.S. and staffed round-the-clock by trained veterans from the military and law enforcement. If confirmed as a legitimate threat, comprehensive alerts and intelligence, including visuals, weapon type, and location details, are immediately disseminated to law enforcement and school officials.
Collaborative efforts with law enforcement
Colby Public Schools maintains a robust partnership with local law enforcement, facilitating swift responses to any potential safety concerns and supporting the district's ongoing safety strategies. This collaboration underscores the district's dedication to fostering a secure and nurturing educational atmosphere.
Mike Lahiff, CEO and co-founder of ZeroEyes, emphasised the district's safety culture, stating, “Colby Public Schools is building a culture of safety where students can learn, grow, and thrive every day. By leveraging state grant funding and strengthening their existing safety partnerships, the district is demonstrating its commitment to protecting students and staff while preserving the close-knit culture that defines its community.”
