The Houston Independent School District has begun a swift security system update. OpenGateat Lamar High School is a new weapons detection system that was implemented in response to previous gun threats and safety concerns.
On campuses where firearms were discovered within the past year, HISD will put the system into place.
Students must carry computers and backpacks as they navigate the detecting system.
At a press conference, HISD Superintendent Mike Miles stated that the firearms detectors can screen roughly 600 pupils in 30 minutes. He clarified that the presence of a firearm or illegal item is indicated by a red light. After that, such students will need to go through another screening.
According to Miles, staffing will depend on the specific institution. We are doing the drills for that reason. We are reviewing their plans to determine how they will be manned. This isn’t a panacea. The presence of a weapon detection system in schools does not exclude the presence of firearms; rather, it adds an additional layer of security, and we are exercising caution in placing these systems there.
The first day of implementation went smoothly, according to HISD, as staff and children entered the school via the open gate system.
“We communicated our expectations to the children beforehand, and they delivered on them,” Lamar Principal Rita Graves said. It is a multi-layered strategy. When children see something, we need them to speak up. In order for children to feel comfortable approaching us in the event of a problem, we must be aware of what is happening on campus and assist them in developing relationships with adults.
By May, HISD intends to have firearms detectors on every campus. The next two schools to get the new technology are Bellaire High School and Northside High School.
According to HISD Police Chief Shamara Garners, the school district was awarded a grant worth over $1.9 million to cover the cost of the systems.
Although the technology was initially implemented in high schools, Miles stated that with more funding, it would be extended to middle schools.
In relation to threats involving weapons, seven students were detained and charged last year.
