Understanding Eli’s Law

Keeping students safe while protecting their privacy has never been more important. Schools use advanced cameras, audio recording devices, and sensors to keep campuses secure. But using this technology the wrong way can quickly lead to serious privacy issues, legal trouble, and lost trust.

In Arkansas, Eli’s Law sets guidelines on how recording devices can be used in private places like locker rooms  and changing rooms. School leaders, superintendents, and IT directors need to understand what this law means for daily operations, security plans, and student safety.

At K12itc, we help schools find smart ways to stay safe and follow privacy laws. With partners like Verkada, we provide solutions that improve student safety without breaching privacy.

In this post, we’ll explain what Eli’s Law is, why it matters, what it covers, and how your school can stay   compliant while still protecting students and staff.

What is Eli’s Law?

Beginning in the 2027-2028 school year, Eli’s Law requires public school districts and open-enrollment public charter schools to put audio recording devices in locker rooms and changing areas. This is to enhance the safety of students on school properties.

In addition to the audio recording device, the school must also display a sign clearly letting know that an audio recording device is present. The sign needs to be placed in a noticeable spot in every locker room and changing room throughout the school.

Key Provisions of Eli’s Law

• Audio Recordings: Arkansas public school districts and open-enrollment public charter schools are required to install an audio recording device in each locker room or changing room located on school property.
• Notify the Students and Staff: The school must notify individuals of the presence of an audio recording device in the locker room or changing room.
• Storing and Deleting Audio Files: The school is required to hold onto audio recordings from devices for at least 90 days. If there is a complaint involving wrongdoing and the recording is needed as evidence, it should be kept for up to a year. At least 10 days before an audio recording is deleted, schools are required to post a notice on their website about the upcoming audio deletion.
• File Authorization: Only certain individuals are authorized to request the audio recording. These include:
  • A public school district or a charter school administrator
  • A parent, legal guardian, or someone who takes care of a student and has a claim of wrongdoing.

Staying Complaint with Eli’s Law in Arkansas

To follow Eli’s Law, schools should:

1. Work with a technology partner, such as K12itc, to procure and install compliant equipment. Tools like Verkada’s SV25 sensor can detect noise levels without actually recording conversations. This helps schools respond to fights or vandalism while staying within the law.

2. Inform students, parents, and staff about any recording policies. This includes explaining clearly how  and when recordings might happen, why they’re being done, and the effects on privacy. It’s crucial that everyone involved understands these policies to know their rights and responsibilities. Clear policies help schools stay compliant, protect privacy, and show families you take safety and trust seriously.

3. Review policies regularly to keep up with new laws, regulations, and technology. Regularly reviewing  policies can help find areas that need changes or improvements. This lets your school adjust to new situations. By making these reviews a priority, you create a smart way to manage that helps both the school and the people involved.

Conclusion

Eli’s Law is an important step forward for protecting students in Arkansas schools. By setting clear guidelines, Eli’s Law helps Arkansas schools balance safety, security, and student trust.

As technology changes, this law will likely keep evolving too. New tools like Verkada’s SV25 sensor show how schools can monitor noise levels and keep students safe without risking illegal locker room recording or hidden audio.

For superintendents, IT directors, and school leaders, staying informed and updating policies is key. At K12itc, we help schools choose the right solutions, follow privacy laws, and protect what matters most. Contact us today!