School board considers $1 billion weapon detection system
September 25, 2024 | Upper Darby SD, School Districts, Pennsylvania
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In a recent school board meeting, officials discussed the proposed implementation of weapon detection systems across three secondary schools, with an estimated cost of approximately $1.163 billion. The initiative aims to enhance security measures and reduce the likelihood of weapons entering school premises.
The presentation highlighted a comprehensive review of existing safety protocols, including emergency response language and various proactive resources that have been established over the years. These resources encompass audits of school security, the presence of guidance counselors, social workers, and mental health initiatives, as well as technology such as camera systems and a real-time alert app called Scribe Go.
The proposed weapon detection system utilizes artificial intelligence to identify potential threats, specifically targeting the metal in firearms. While acknowledging that no security measure is foolproof, officials emphasized that this system would serve as an additional layer of protection. The technology is expected to process around 2,000 students in a 15 to 20-minute timeframe, with an anticipated 10% alert rate leading to approximately 400 to 600 searches daily.
The first year of implementation is projected to cost nearly $914,000, covering the installation of the system at Upper Darby High School and two middle schools. Subsequent years will incur software licensing fees, bringing the total expenditure over four years to approximately $1.168 billion, including additional costs for handheld wands.
Concerns were raised regarding the balance between maintaining an open school environment and ensuring safety. The administration proposed prioritizing the weapon detection system before introducing a student ID scanning process, which would require significant staffing increases. The focus will be on monitoring student compliance during school hours, particularly for late arrivals and hall pass usage.
The board's decision on the weapon detection system is pending, but officials reiterated their commitment to collaborating with the community to ensure the safety of students and staff.
The presentation highlighted a comprehensive review of existing safety protocols, including emergency response language and various proactive resources that have been established over the years. These resources encompass audits of school security, the presence of guidance counselors, social workers, and mental health initiatives, as well as technology such as camera systems and a real-time alert app called Scribe Go.
The proposed weapon detection system utilizes artificial intelligence to identify potential threats, specifically targeting the metal in firearms. While acknowledging that no security measure is foolproof, officials emphasized that this system would serve as an additional layer of protection. The technology is expected to process around 2,000 students in a 15 to 20-minute timeframe, with an anticipated 10% alert rate leading to approximately 400 to 600 searches daily.
The first year of implementation is projected to cost nearly $914,000, covering the installation of the system at Upper Darby High School and two middle schools. Subsequent years will incur software licensing fees, bringing the total expenditure over four years to approximately $1.168 billion, including additional costs for handheld wands.
Concerns were raised regarding the balance between maintaining an open school environment and ensuring safety. The administration proposed prioritizing the weapon detection system before introducing a student ID scanning process, which would require significant staffing increases. The focus will be on monitoring student compliance during school hours, particularly for late arrivals and hall pass usage.
The board's decision on the weapon detection system is pending, but officials reiterated their commitment to collaborating with the community to ensure the safety of students and staff.
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