Fairfax County Public Schools will be implementing its weapons detection screening program at school board regular business meetings. FCPS says the program “is the newest layer of security implemented by the division to maximize the safety of our community.”
Board meeting attendees will go through screening by the OpenGate weapons detection system. These are the same detectors as those recently deployed at FCPS high schools and middle schools.
Like in FCPS schools, prohibited items at school board meetings include guns, knives, explosive devices, ammunitions, and mace. Items that are permitted but can still set off the system include three-ring binders, laptops, metal eyeglass cases, and umbrellas.
If you plan to attend a school board meeting, FCPS recommends arriving early to allow time to pass through the weapons detection system. The doors for school board meetings open at 6:30 p.m.
Other FCPS Security Additions
FCPS also recently hired bodyguard services for superintendent Michelle Reid.
“The highly publicized tragic events around the country over the last several months illustrate the need to intensify and enhance security protocols at all organizations. Under the direction of the Chief of Safety and Security, this role at FCPS will also streamline and consolidate other evolving security efforts to ensure they remain both effective and efficient in a rapidly changing environment. This includes the ongoing implementation of a new emergency response system and weapons screening technology, as well as bolstering FCPS’s work identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks of targeted violence against students, staff, and schools,” FCPS said in a statement.
Feature image, stock.adobe.com
