Newfoundland and Labrador's privacy commissioner has released a report that addresses the issue of security cameras in schools.

While it's an issue Ed Ring said he's been meaning to address for years, it recently came to light because of a complaint.

"We had a file on this as a result of a complaint from a parent about their children being videotaped all day in a small, rural school," he said.

Students said they don't mind being watched while on school grounds. (CBC)

Ring's report outlines the privacy issues that schools should consider when using security cameras, and how to balance school security and student privacy.

He said the big question is whether surveillance cameras are necessary.

"For example, if there's a vandalism problem, that's most likely occurring in the evenings or on the weekends. So, it that's the situation you're dealing with, is it necessary to have video surveillance in the hallways of the school?"

About 70 schools and 34 buses throughout the province use video surveillance.

Parents, students don't mind cameras

Parent Ahmed Zdin said cameras are a plus, even for schools with young children.

"That's going to be good for our kids," she said.

"Whatever grade, I don't mind at all."

Students also said that they don't mind being watched.

"I feel safer when I know there's footage of things being there, so I don't find it to be a problem," said Rachel Tessier.

Student Daniel Godden agreed.

"The teachers don't look at the cameras unless there's a problem or someone's being bullied. And there's no cameras in the change rooms, so it doesn't make a difference to me," he said.

Student Jacob Vanderkloet said his school did catch some acts on video.

"Earlier this year, someone was throwing a garbage can down the hallway. They got caught and got detention," he said.