2025 Video Surveillance Predictions for Education and Healthcare Markets

According to Campus Safety’s 2024 Video Surveillance Survey, 98% of K-12 schools, colleges, and healthcare facilities have one or more video surveillance systems on their campus — up from 94% in 2023.

The survey by SSI’s sister site also found that of the participants whose campuses don’t have a security camera system on campus, half said they were considering purchasing one in the next two years.

As the rapid adoption of these systems continues to grow, so do their capabilities. Ongoing advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning help campuses analyze video footage in real time to detect objects, identify people, and analyze behavior, saving law enforcement and practitioners hours of scouring through footage.

While its sometimes hard to imagine how video surveillance technology can advance even more, campus security experts and practitioners who use these systems day in and day out know this is just the tip of the iceberg.

Below are some predictions from practitioners, consultants, and solutions providers about the future of campus video surveillance as we head into the new year.

Education and Healthcare Video Surveillance Predictions

Mark Reed, MBA, CHPA, director of campus support operations for City of Hope:

“AI-driven video analytics will increasingly be incorporated to monitor patient behavior, detect falls, and identify potential safety issues in real time. AI-enhanced cameras can notify healthcare workers instantly if a patient requires assistance, especially in high-risk areas like ICUs and emergency departments. With the rise in incidents at healthcare facilities, video surveillance will be crucial for bolstering facility security. Intelligent video systems will assist in detecting unauthorized access and alerting staff to potential threats, enabling quicker responses during emergencies. Wearable cameras for healthcare workers are likely to gain traction, providing an added layer of accountability and security in patient interactions. These cameras can serve both as training tools and as documentation for patient care, improving transparency and quality control.”

Jeffrey Yarbrough, Chief of Police, Hutto Police Department, CEO, The Veridical Consulting Group, 2021 Campus Safety Director of the Year finalist:

“In 2025, AI-driven video surveillance systems will redefine safety and security in K-12 schools. These systems will equip school-based law enforcement and campus security teams with AI technology, transitioning from a traditional reactive posture to a next generation intelligent and preventive response to a variety of situations.

“AI-driven surveillance systems will activate automatically in response to contextual events and provide instant notification, remote viewing, and real-time tracking. For instance, unauthorized door openings will prompt the system to isolate the entryway and use facial recognition to cross-reference integrated student or staff ID systems and public databases. Similarly, when a fire alarm pull station is activated, AI will pinpoint the location, activate area cameras, and track involved individuals to deliver real-time insights to campus security. The next generation technology will provide behavioral cluster detection to analyze crowd dynamics and identify high-risk gatherings in areas prone to unauthorized activity. If unusual clusters form, the system will notify security personnel, overlay profiles of those involved for swift identification, and track movements to facilitate timely interventions and de-escalation.

“Advanced geofencing technology will use AI to establish virtual boundaries around restricted zones or vehicle-prohibited areas. Breaches will trigger automated video surveillance tracking and provide responders with precise real-time data. Another powerful feature will be video surveillance controlled advanced AI geofencing. Systems will use geospatial technology to create digital boundaries around predesignated areas. If breached, AI driven video surveillance systems will automatically track individuals or vehicles in real time and provide precise details on location, direction, and entry points to responders. The system will issue AI generated automated alerts over multiple platforms to keep entire campuses informed.

“Predictive and preventive analytics will further enhance K-12 school campus security. By analyzing historical data, AI driven video surveillance systems will detect anomalies such as students accessing restricted areas at odd hours or deviations from routine traffic patterns in sensitive zones. Advanced features like 360-degree panoramic views and body language recognition will be used to detect signs of distress, aggression, or concealed weapons for unparalleled situational awareness.

“2025 will bring game changing AI-driven video surveillance technology to K-12 schools. The technology will mitigate active shooter events, reduce violence, deter crime, and create secure, nurturing environments for students and staff. The technology will emerge as the new standard for safety in education and provide unparalleled peace of mind to school communities.”

Danielle Stevens, director of safety and security, Lake Zurich Community Unit School District 95, 2023 Campus Safety Director of the Year winner:

“In 2025, I predict that schools will prioritize comprehensive audits of their video surveillance systems to address evolving safety needs. These audits will focus on assessing coverage, identifying gaps, and integrating surveillance strategies into long-term planning.

“Strategic camera additions, including the potential use of AI tools such as weapons detection systems, may also be considered. Collaboration will be key to optimizing these systems. Partnering with local first responders can provide valuable insights into camera placement and integration with emergency response needs. Cross-departmental collaboration with Facilities and IT will also play a crucial role. For example, when new spaces are built or renovated, it is essential to reassess camera placement to address blind spots and enhance overall coverage. Standardizing camera systems will create consistency and cost-effectiveness over time.

“Establishing a strong maintenance and replacement plan, if not already in place, will be critical for maintaining system reliability and supporting long-term budget planning. Adding advanced AI tools, such as weapons detection, requires planning. Schools need to assess whether their current camera infrastructure can support these technologies, as upgrades may involve significant and sometimes unexpected expenses.

“Additionally, it is important to evaluate how these tools align with broader safety and security plans. While immediate implementation may not be feasible, incorporating these technologies into long-term budgets and strategies will prepare schools for future enhancements.

“Lastly, training staff is just as important as the technology itself. School administrators should focus on ongoing professional development to equip staff with the skills needed to respond to alerts in real-time and fully utilize the systems’ capabilities. By combining strategic audits, collaboration, long-term planning, and professional development, schools can develop robust, adaptable surveillance systems. These efforts will enhance situational awareness, strengthen safety strategies, and provide a solid foundation for meeting the evolving needs of school communities.”

Ian Lopez, director of security, Cherry Creek School District, 2024 Campus Safety Director of the Year finalist:

“School districts will continue to search for video surveillance solutions that bring both facility and school bus footage together under one platform, that can provide analytics and detection capabilities that will ultimately provide for more accurate and efficient deterrent, response, and forensic capabilities.

“The systems must support day-to-day operations, as well as large scale emergencies, so they can be used to mitigate problems before they happen as well as enhance real-time situational awareness during school-based emergencies.”

Video Surveillance Predictions from Security Consultants

Dan Dusseau, owner, Dusseau Solutions LLC, retired chief of police/director of public safety, Northern Virginia Community College Police Department, 2014 Campus Safety Director of the Year winner:

“Advances in AI-powered surveillance and threat detection are set to significantly improve safety in schools, creating environments where students, staff, and parents can feel more secure. Currently, video surveillance primarily serves a reactive function, reviewing incidents after they occur. However, the shift toward real-time monitoring will transform these systems into proactive tools that identify threats like weapons, unauthorized access, or abnormal behavior before issues escalate. This immediate detection capability provides school communities with peace of mind, knowing potential dangers can be intercepted swiftly.

“Beyond security, AI systems will streamline routine tasks, such as attendance and visitor tracking. By using facial recognition and behavior analysis, these systems will automatically verify who is on campus, reducing the need for manual ID checks or sign-ins. School staff will have a clear, real-time understanding of who is present and where, enhancing control over campus access. This level of oversight can reassure parents and staff, knowing that only authorized individuals have access to school grounds.

“Emergency response will also improve, as integrated security technologies enable swift lockdowns, remote door locking, and real-time population tracking in the event of an evacuation. These capabilities provide a clear overview of everyone’s location, allowing for faster, more efficient responses that reduce risks during critical moments. Students, staff, and parents can feel confident that, if an emergency arises, response systems are well-prepared to protect them.

“While privacy concerns around facial recognition may initially create hesitancy, evolving regulations and safeguards will address these issues, balancing safety with privacy rights. Although new threats like deep fakes could potentially challenge the reliability of AI systems, schools will also need to develop countermeasures and policies to safeguard students, staff and faculty and accompanying data.

“Overall, these technologies will enhance not only the actual safety of school environments but also the perception of security. With the assurance that potential threats are identified early, administrative processes are simplified, and emergency responses are well-coordinated, school communities will feel a renewed sense of security, fostering peace of mind for students, staff, and parents alike.”

Paul Sarnese, owner, Secured & Prepared Consulting, past IAHSS president, 2022 Campus Safety Director of the Year winner:

“I believe that security leaders will continue to embrace the use of analytics to identify risks and to solve safety, security, emergency management and operational issues. For example, I always tell the story of how I used my VMS to improve hospital operations. When I was responsible for hospital operations, I would log onto my VMS from home to view the parking lots and sidewalks of my employer to determine when I was going to deploy snow removal services. I also used the cameras to count occupants to determine the busy times in our cafeteria to determine when we needed to add an additional cashier during peak serving times. Today’s analytics can prevent injuries to staff and patients. Cameras can detect if a contractor is wearing a hard hat at a construction site and can prevent a patient from falling out of bed and prevent drug diversion. The analytics will continue to improve and provide valuable data, prevent injuries, and prevent operational inefficiencies. I truly believe that the analytics will help leaders solve safety, security and operational issues.

“In 2025, I believe that all new constructions and renovations will include cameras in the patient rooms allowing the clinical team to monitor patient activity, to directly communicate with the patients, to prevent patient falls, and to provide remote oversight of emergency responses to medical emergencies. Cameras will continue to integrate into the daily clinical management of a patient and will be included in the electronic medical records. The use of artificial intelligence will continue to assist leaders in identifying safety, security, emergency management, and operational risks and provide a solution to taking action to mitigate the risks. I am extremely excited to help my clients to utilize cameras and their VMS to improve staff and patient safety, security and operations.”

Video Surveillance Predictions from Solutions Providers

Brad Cary, business development manager for education, Milestone Systems:

“As educational institutions face evolving security challenges, 2025 will mark a significant shift toward cloud-based video security solutions. The convergence of robust data infrastructure, advanced analytics, and cost-effective storage options is transforming how schools approach safety and security.

“The migration to cloud-based security solutions isn’t just a trend – it’s becoming a necessity. Schools are discovering that cloud strategies offer unprecedented flexibility while reducing infrastructure costs. Several key developments are driving this transformation:

• Hybrid solutions take center stage. The traditional model of on-premises video security systems is giving way to hybrid approaches that combine local and cloud resources. This strategy allows institutions to maintain critical on-site capabilities while leveraging the scalability and cost benefits of cloud storage. With tiered as-needed video storage pricing models, as with AWS, for example, schools can preserve existing investments while gradually and affordably transitioning to more cloud-based services.
• Pay-as-you-go flexibility. Financial pressures are pushing educational institutions toward more flexible payment models. Cloud-based Video Security as a Service (VSaaS) solutions are gaining traction by eliminating large upfront capital expenditures. This approach allows schools to scale their security infrastructure based on actual needs rather than projected future requirements.
• Enhanced data sharing capabilities. Cloud connectivity is revolutionizing how security teams collaborate with first responders. The ability to instantly share video data during emergencies is becoming a critical feature, enabling faster and more coordinated responses to security incidents. Cloud platforms facilitate secure, rapid sharing of video information with law enforcement and emergency services.
• Analytics-driven security. The integration of cloud services with open platform video management systems (VMS) is enabling more sophisticated analytics. Again, advanced AWS tools in this area are making it possible to process vast amounts of video data more efficiently, helping schools identify potential security threats before they escalate. This proactive approach to campus security is becoming increasingly important as institutions face more complex security challenges.
• Infrastructure simplification. The reduction in on-premises infrastructure requirements is proving particularly attractive to resource-constrained institutions. Cloud-based solutions eliminate the need for extensive server rooms and complex maintenance schedules, allowing IT staff to focus on more strategic initiatives.

“As we move through 2025, these trends will continue to reshape campus security. The combination of cloud storage, advanced analytics, and flexible deployment options is creating more efficient and effective security solutions for educational institutions of all sizes.”

Craig Oberschlake, business development manager – education, Bosch Security and Safety Systems:

“AI will continue to enhance the effectiveness of video surveillance in 2025. It is tipping the value proposition of video surveillance toward delivering visual intelligence that enables proactive responses. It can help campus safety departments move toward a predictive approach to security with alerts to activity that indicates a security risk and detections of unsafe conditions or other critical situations before they become a problem.

“Edge-based intelligence can help schools and universities detect brandished guns, identify vehicle license plates and make and model information for better parking management, recognize individuals’ physical characteristics for swift and accurate forensic investigations, and much more. AI analytics designed for specific solutions and applications allows for greater accuracy and customization, as well as increased granularity for more specific forensic searches when a suspicious person or vehicle is on campus, or an event has already occurred.

“When integrated with other security and communications technologies, these intelligent solutions help K-12 schools and higher education facilities mitigate risks, automate deterrence tactics, and increase operational efficiency while preserving a welcoming atmosphere that is essential to student and staff performance. Using technology-based solutions to enhance the feeling of safety among the school and campus community can help administrators strengthen student, instructor, and staff outcomes.”

Mike Rose, vice president of sales, IDIS Americas:

“In 2025, video surveillance in K-12 schools will evolve into a smarter, more strategic tool, powered by advancements in AI and analytics. These technologies are no longer merely about capturing footage—they’re transforming how schools proactively manage safety, security, and even student wellness.

“Expect to see schools leveraging intelligent video management systems (VMS) to identify potential risks in real time, from unusual behaviors to overcrowded hallways. Advanced analytics like behavioral tracking and heatmapping will help schools take a proactive approach to both safety challenges and student support, creating environments that are as secure as they are nurturing.

“Integration and scalability are also critical to modernizing school surveillance systems. Today’s VMS solutions ensure seamless compatibility with a range of security devices, allowing districts to tailor systems to their needs without overhauling existing infrastructure. Scalable platforms provide schools with cost-effective ways to expand surveillance as campuses grow, all while minimizing complexity and reducing the total cost of ownership (TCO).

“With greater connectivity comes a new set of challenges—cybersecurity is top of mind. Schools need VMS platforms built to defend against threats like ransomware and data breaches, with essentials like strong encryption, automated updates, and multi-factor authentication.

“The future lies in smart, adaptable systems. By combining advanced AI with intuitive design and seamless integration, schools can address today’s safety concerns and anticipate tomorrow’s needs. It’s about creating solutions that evolve alongside their priorities, from security to student wellness.”

Jill Renihan, segment development manager, education, Axis Communications:

“First off, it’s important to remember that video surveillance is just one part of a comprehensive school security program, albeit an important one. Schools require a multi-layered approach to security that includes other technologies as well as dedicated people and processes. Accordingly, 2025 will bring an increase in safety requirements that schools must meet to be compliant with legislative demands. This is nothing new, but how schools meet these requirements will likely include a greater reliance on technology than ever before—especially if schools are to meet the spirit, and not just the letter, of the law.

“For example, states are passing mandates that require all exterior and classroom doors to be locked or monitored while students are present. While simply locking the door meets the letter of the law, the true spirit of the law is to ensure that unauthorized persons do not access campus or classrooms at any time—most importantly when students are present. AI in the form of video analytics can assist with this important task. Consider that a camera can be used to monitor a perimeter door, but if that camera feed is not actively monitored, a person approaching the door might go unnoticed. Through the assistance of analytics, when a person approaches the door, a camera can trigger several actions on the part of the system:

1. An SMS message, with a screen capture of the individual at the door, can be sent to security personnel;
2. A recorded announcement can notify the individual that they’re not authorized to enter and instruct them to proceed to the main office for visitor check-in;
3. If the individual persists, a siren could be initiated as well as a call to law enforcement for additional response.

“Expect to see further developments in the application of analytics to video. Audio analytics will also have a stronger presence on school campuses particularly in those locations in which cameras are disallowed, e.g., restrooms and locker rooms. Audio monitoring and analytics can initiate alerts in response to events like a call for help, threatening behavior and other similar incidents. These notifications can alert security and administrative staff to the need for investigation and intervention.

“As scrutiny and accountability continue to rise, there is an increasing demand for accurate, timely information about what happened, where events occurred and who did what to whom. In that vein, body worn devices will see increased adoption in schools in 2025.”

Chancy Pray, national vertical accounts manager, SLED/Fed/Data Centers, Honeywell:

“After more than 30 years in the security industry, the reoccurring lesson is that you never know it all and you can never stop learning. Working with the Honeywell Enterprise Security Team for the last 5 years has given me greater perspective on not only the Honeywell Security Solutions, but also on many of the incredible supporting integrations we work with.

“The future of campus and school security lies at the intersection of advanced technologies and human-centered strategies. AI and video analytics will provide real-time insights, mental health monitoring will offer early warning systems, and timely information sharing with first responders and school resource officers will ensure rapid responses. However, technology alone is not enough. Protecting our most valuable assets—our children—requires a comprehensive approach that integrates these tools with compassionate leadership, community involvement, and a strong emphasis on prevention and mental well-being.

“Upcoming grants, government funding, and state/local funded assistance in school security suggest a growing focus on advanced technology, including video surveillance and access control systems, alongside broader safety measures.

“Looking ahead to 2025, it is likely that funding for school safety will continue to rise, driven by public demand and legislative action. Schools will need to collaborate effectively, leverage data to showcase their needs, and invest in both technology and training to maximize the impact of these resources.”

Bruce Canal, executive lead, education, Genetec:

“As K-12 schools, colleges, and healthcare facilities become more strategic in how they approach and implement cloud solutions in their environment, decision-makers will prioritize hybrid systems. They’ll look for the best ways to centrally monitor remote sites from an on-premises head-end system and reduce on-site maintenance work with lightweight, quick-deploy hybrid cloud systems. They’ll want to modernize their video or access control systems without scrapping their existing tech investments. Those with deployments fully in the cloud may also want to optimize data processing and storage costs or facilitate broader third-party integrations using on-premises infrastructure.

“Software-as-a-service (SaaS) solutions that are open, unified, and support hybrid-cloud environments will offer the most flexible path forward. Beyond adopting flexible deployment models, organizations will be able to combine video, access control, intrusion, intercom, and other sensors from a variety of manufacturers. They can also connect existing infrastructure so that they become available via the cloud and install new devices at their own pace. Cloud-managed appliances will be key for organizations that want to bring their existing hardware to the cloud. They’ll save time on deploying systems and save on the costs of changing non-compatible cameras or access control hardware – making the transition to the cloud easier.”

Paul Dubois, business development manager, education, Hanwha Vision:

“Schools are being built or retrofitted continually, and security is at the top of every school board’s priority list. Driven by heightened risk levels, it is incumbent on administrators to maintain high levels of situational awareness at all times across buildings, campuses, and school districts. The video surveillance market will continue to thrive in the education vertical. We’ll continue to see cloud-based video solutions gaining traction in education and also more schools will increase their use of AI analytics to gather data more effectively and gain new insights into every aspect of their daily operations.”

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