The Marion County School Board has approved the $400,000 purchase of new metal detectors that it believes will enhance security at high schools and events.
During its regular meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 27, board members voted unanimously to approve the acquisition of the OpenGate Weapons Detection System. The purchase, which totals $400,000, will be funded through the district’s referendum.
The new technology is designed to detect weapons on individuals, inside backpacks, or within other personal items.
Officials stated the system offers a non-intrusive and efficient screening method that strengthens security while minimizing disruption to daily school operations.
“It’s a $400,000 line item and it is an example of just how much more expensive it has gotten to provide safe education for our students and safe environments. I wish that our state school’s allocation that we get, which we’re grateful for obviously, covered every expense that we need. But that’s not the case. And so we’re always going to do what’s best and what’s safest for everyone that works for us and attends our schools. But it definitely doesn’t come for free,” said board member Nancy Thrower, who represents District 4.
Thrower, who represents District 4, said she was “sad” that the county needed the measure, but emphasized that it was necessary.
“I continue to be sad for where we are in society that this is even necessary. But, until it becomes unnecessary, we’re going to do it, and we’re going to continue to advocate for the funding that we need to do it right,” said Thrower.
A total of 19 systems will be purchased under the agreement. Plans call for every traditional high school in the county, as well as South Marion High School, to receive two units each.
Bridgeway Academy, which houses the county’s alternative learning and was formerly known as Marion Technical Institute, is also slated to receive one system.
Finally, the district’s Safe Schools Department will keep two units in reserve. These mobile systems will be utilized for graduations, sporting events, and to respond to reports of weapons on other campuses throughout the district.
During a brief discussion on the topic, staff cited an incident in which a child was accused of going onto a middle school campus with a firearm. The mobile units would be used at select schools in those types of situations.
The board emphasized that the equipment will be used during regular school hours and for after-hours events.
Staff emphasized that importance of limiting the impact of the changes on students, and that continued education would be required through the rollout, beginning on the first day of implementation.
“This is going to be a growing pain, but one of the things I’ve learned in law enforcement is that safety isn’t convenient, but it’s necessary,” said board member Eric Cummings, who held a previous position as a corrections officer. Cummings went on to refer to September 11, 2001, suggesting the country’s security procedures at airports were forever changed after the terrorist attack.
“From when I used to fly before 9/11 and how I fly now, there’s a difference,” said Cummings.
The motion to approve the purchase was made by board member Lori Conrad and seconded by Cummings. It passed unanimously, five votes to zero.
Once the devices are implemented, district staff says the board will have a chance to review the effectiveness of the new systems within the schools.
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