Middle schools to get weapon scanners
Fairfax County Public Schools is expanding the weapon scanning program at all high schools this fall to also include all middle schools, Superintendent Michelle Reid announced on Aug. 4.
FCPS launched a pilot program for weapon detectors in April at randomly selected high schools. In June, the devices were implemented on a permanent basis at several schools, including Annandale High School.
Students walk through portable, free-standing scanners when they enter the building. The OpenGate devices are from the CEIA USA company. They are considered more sensitive than traditional metal detectors, and thus less likely to flag common metal items.
Related story: Weapon scanners are now permanent at Annandale HS
In an email to the community, Reid said, “FCPS continues to work hard to keep students safe in our buildings by constantly reviewing the latest in school safety best practices.” She said the scanners to be installed at middle and high schools are similar to those used at sporting events and concerts.
The pilot was launched in response to incidents at several schools.
“We will provide more details as we prepare for the coming school year to ensure that our students, staff, and families understand and feel comfortable with the process,” Reid said.
Learn more here.
Holy cow, This is not the Annandale I grew up in. When we had a problem or a disagreement we would settle it by a wrestling match or a fistfight. And that method really worked well for the one who won the fistfight. Is the solution to this problem to keep the guns out of school? Or is this the best we can do to help the young people who have emotional problems or Grips ???