Campus and Building Security
Welcome to the New MCSS Website!
MCSS is excited to provide you with a new viewing experience. You will be able to access all of the old content in addition to new and expanded items. Any webpage concerns can be directed to [email protected].
The physical security of a school building and campus is best achieved by integrating layers of technology creating a comprehensive safety ecosystem. Decisions should be informed by the results of a comprehensive physical safety assessment.
School Safety Evaluation Tool
Code of Maryland Regulation 14.40.06 requires public schools to conduct a school safety and facility evaluation at least once every two years. Locals can meet this requirement through a variety of methods. MCSS makes available this adapted tool. The purpose of the Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) School Assessment (CSA) is to rate the physical parts of the school that may impact youth fear and aggressive behavior.
Physical Security Documents
The interim report on the Maryland study of detecting deadly weapons in public middle and high schools is available to the public.
During the Summer and Fall of 2023, the Maryland Center for School Safety (MCSS), in coordination with the University of Maryland Center for Health and Homeland Security (CHHS), undertook a study related to emergency notifications in Maryland schools. The study was an outgrowth of SB0677, proposed in the 2023 Maryland General Assembly legislative session, which would have established a Statewide Secure Schools Emergency Response Program funded by annual appropriations in the State budget. As part of the study, MCSS and CHHS convened a working group of stakeholders from a diverse set of institutions for a series of meetings to discuss existing school notification systems and the feasibility and desirability of instituting such a program statewide in Maryland. CHHS conducted research into school emergency communications in other States, including States that have adopted versions of Alyssa’s Law.
Study of Emergency Notification in Maryland Public Schools - PDF - 255.53 KB
The Maryland Interagency Commission on School Construction collaborated with local school systems and Maryland state agencies to develop school mapping standards in 2025.