Broward County Public Schools is taking part in a new state-funded pilot program that uses drones to improve safety on school campuses.

The program will allow specially equipped drones to be used during emergencies to help law enforcement and school officials respond more quickly. Broward is one of three Florida school districts selected to participate in the pilot.

Superintendent Howard Hepburn tells WSVN the district will select and deploy a trial run of the security drones at one school for now, which hasn’t yet been determined. 

Under the plan, the drones would be stored on school property and activated only during emergency situations. The devices can provide real-time video and audio to first responders, giving them a clearer picture of what is happening on campus before they arrive.

District officials say the technology is meant to support, not replace, existing safety measures. The goal is to improve response times and help emergency teams make informed decisions during critical situations.

The drone pilot program is funded by the state and is part of Florida’s broader efforts to strengthen school security. District leaders say student and staff safety remains their top priority as the program moves forward.