Salem schools pilot AI to detect weapons, smoke, and other threats in real time

AI weapons detection arrives at Salem High School in 2025, introducing a less intrusive security approach than traditional metal detectors. This system represents a growing trend of schools implementing advanced surveillance technology to enhance safety while maintaining a welcoming educational environment. The AI-powered system, which continuously monitors existing camera feeds for weapons and suspicious activity, offers a glimpse into how artificial intelligence is transforming school security protocols across America.

The big picture: Salem City Schools is piloting a new AI-powered weapons detection system at Salem High School that monitors existing security cameras for potential threats.

• The system automatically notifies designated staff, administrators, and local police when it detects weapons, allowing for immediate review and response.
• Salem High School will be the first in the district to implement the technology, with plans to eventually expand to middle and elementary schools.

By the numbers: The school district’s investment in the Coram AI security system represents a significant financial commitment to student safety.

• The annual license costs approximately $47,000, with an additional first-year equipment charge of $40,000 offset by a state grant.
• The system will monitor 160 new cameras that Coram AI provided to enhance clarity and reduce false alarms.
• Salem High School’s 1,200 students, with approximately 1,000 entering within a 10-minute window each morning, made traditional security screening methods impractical.

Behind the decision: Superintendent Curtis Hicks cited specific concerns about traditional security approaches that led to choosing the AI solution.

• School officials considered metal detectors but rejected them due to logistical challenges with high student volume and concerns about creating an unwelcoming atmosphere.
• The AI system is “always monitoring” while being less intrusive than physical screening methods, allowing schools to “continue to be a welcoming and inviting space.”
• Hicks noted that most school tragedies involve a period where someone with a weapon is either approaching or already inside the building—time that could be used to neutralize threats if detected early.

Beyond weapons detection: The Coram AI system offers additional security features that extend its utility beyond just identifying firearms.

• The platform can detect smoke and unauthorized intrusions, and can even alert officials if a vehicle with a license plate flagged by police enters school property.
• School administrators hope the system will eventually become a “one-stop shop for weapons detection, visitor management and reunification.”
• Salem City Schools is collaborating with Coram AI to develop protocols that could benefit other school districts adopting similar technology.

What they’re saying: A May 12 blog post from Coram AI emphasized the system’s ability to provide real-time intelligence without human intervention.

• “Cameras powered by Coram AI can automatically detect visible threats like firearms, smoke, or unauthorized intrusions,” the company stated.
• “This real-time intelligence helps schools act faster and with greater confidence in high-pressure situations,” according to the company’s blog.

About the technology: Coram AI was created by former executives from Lyft‘s autonomous driving division.

• Founders Ashesh Jain and Peter Ondruska developed the platform to help customers across various industries increase safety and efficiency.
• The system is expected to be fully operational at Salem High School before the start of the next school year.