News Summary
Greenville County Schools (GCS) is implementing Evolv Weapons Detection Systems in elementary schools starting in the 2024/2025 school year to enhance student safety. This technology will enable random screenings for grades three through five and will be flexible in deployment across the district. Additionally, GCS plans to invest $1.9 million into security programs, including panic buttons and new surveillance software to detect firearms. The initiative emphasizes community collaboration to prevent threats and ensure a secure learning environment for students.
Greenville County Schools Boost Safety Measures with New Technology
In a significant move to enhance safety, Greenville County Schools (GCS) has announced the implementation of cutting-edge Evolv Weapons Detection Systems in elementary schools, beginning in the 2024/2025 school year. This technology aims to keep students safe while going about their daily activities.
Random Screenings for Upper Elementary Grades
The Evolv system will perform random screenings of students in grades three through five, with the potential to extend screenings to all grades if necessary. This initiative follows the successful use of the system at middle and high schools within the district, where it was introduced during the 2022/2023 school year. It’s specifically designed to detect concealed weapons, helping the district maintain a secure environment.
Smart Technology That Moves with Students
What makes the Evolv system stand out? It combines advanced algorithm technology with high-resolution cameras to detect concealed weapons by assessing shapes, density, and location. This means that students can move normally through the screening process while still undergoing targeted searches when necessary. No more long lines and congestion associated with traditional metal detectors!
Flexible Deployment Across the District
Interestingly, not all schools will have the Evolv system installed permanently. Instead, these systems will be rotated randomly throughout the district, used during school days and at events. Greenville County Schools plans to deploy nine dual-lane Evolv systems, creating efficient screening lanes that allow multiple students to pass through at the same time.
Safety at Events and Daily School Activities
The deployment of these systems isn’t just for routine school days. The plan also includes utilizing Evolv systems at sporting events and other gatherings, ensuring safety and security at all times. Each system will be operated by a technician from GCS and a deputy from the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office, ready to respond swiftly in case of emergency.
Investment in School Security Programs
To back up these new systems, GCS has updated its long-range facilities plan to improve security programs, allocating approximately $1.9 million for this enhancement. Part of this funding will go towards purchasing an additional Evolv machine and transportation equipment. Additionally, they are looking at piloting a new Evolv X-ray machine for bag checks, which would further bolster their security measures.
New Software and Emergency Devices
In a further step toward security, GCS is launching a pilot program for new software that can detect brandished firearms in surveillance camera footage. This proactive approach is designed to respond swiftly to any potential threats. In addition, plans are in motion to purchase 10,000 panic button devices for staff, enabling quick communication in emergencies.
Community Collaboration for Safety
The school district’s recent updates to security measures come in response to heightened safety concerns, particularly following the tragic shooting at Tanglewood. Recent threats against schools in the area have prompted a collaborative effort between the school district and local law enforcement to reinforce safety protocols.
Encouraging Community Vigilance
Parents are encouraged to keep an eye on their children’s social media activities and remain vigilant to prevent the spread of unverified threats. The “See Something, Say Something” protocol has been emphasized for reporting concerns to help keep the community informed and safe.
Commitment to a Secure Learning Environment
As the school year approaches, the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office reaffirms its dedication to ensuring a safe environment in schools through continuous investigation and cooperation with GCS. Together, they are committed to making school a place where students can learn and grow with peace of mind.
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Additional Resources
- Fox Carolina: Greenville County Schools Add Extra Security
- Wikipedia: School Safety
- Greenville Online: Greenville County Deploys Evolv Security System
- Google Search: Greenville County Schools Security Enhancements
- Greenville Journal: Updates on Security Enhancements
- Encyclopedia Britannica: School Security
- WYFF4: Greenville County School Threats
- Google Scholar: Greenville County Schools Security
- Greenville Journal: Donation of Safety Patrol Vests
- Google News: Greenville County Schools Security Measures
