French Data Protection Authority CNIL has weighed in on CCTV surveillance in schools.
CNIL received 25 complaints regarding systematic surveillance of students throughout their day, whether during their recess, during their lunch in the canteen or even during their class time. These cameras also made it possible to film almost constantly a part of the staff.
“It is possible to film access to buildings (entrances and exits) and circulation areas, in particular to ensure the safety of students, agents and property and to avoid, in particular, malicious intrusion,” the agency said. “But, except in exceptional circumstances, a video surveillance system placing pupils or employees under systematic and continuous surveillance in their places of life and work is excessive.”