The Salem-Keizer School District has announced a plan to install weapons detection systems across all 12 of its middle schools. This move extends a security initiative that began last year with the implementation of similar technology in the district's high schools.
Key Takeaways
- All 12 middle schools in the Salem-Keizer district will receive new weapons detection systems.
- The project's total cost is approximately $1.2 million.
- Funding is sourced from a settlement with the vaping company Juul and a 2018 capital bond.
- This initiative follows the successful installation of the same systems in all district high schools one year ago.
Expansion of District-Wide Security Program
Officials from the Salem-Keizer School District confirmed the decision to enhance security measures for its middle school students. The new systems will be installed at all 12 middle school campuses, making it one of the most comprehensive security rollouts in the state for this age group.
The technology selected for this project is provided by Evolv Technology, a company based in Massachusetts. This is the same company whose systems were installed in the district's high schools, ensuring consistency in security protocols and staff training across secondary education facilities.
Building on High School Implementation
This expansion comes exactly one year after Salem-Keizer became the first school district in Oregon to place weapons detection systems in all of its high schools. The decision to now include middle schools suggests that district leadership views the initial program as a successful step toward improving campus safety.
By extending the program, the district aims to create a uniform security environment for students as they transition from middle school to high school. Officials have noted that a consistent approach to safety helps streamline procedures and expectations for students, staff, and parents.
About Evolv Technology Systems
Evolv Technology specializes in advanced security screening systems that use artificial intelligence and sensor technology. Unlike traditional metal detectors, these systems are designed to differentiate between common personal items like phones and keys and potential threats, allowing for a faster and less intrusive screening process.
Project Funding and Financial Details
The total investment for installing these systems in all 12 middle schools is estimated to be $1.2 million. District officials have outlined a clear funding plan that does not draw from the general education budget, which covers teacher salaries and classroom resources.
Instead, the project is financed through two distinct sources. A portion of the funds comes from a legal settlement the district received from the vaping company Juul. The remainder is allocated from a capital bond that voters approved in 2018.
Utilizing Settlement and Bond Funds
The use of the Juul settlement funds connects a public health issue directly to student well-being and safety. School districts across the country that have received money from such settlements are often directed to use it for student health and safety initiatives.
The 2018 capital bond was specifically passed by the community to fund major infrastructure projects, including significant safety and security upgrades across the district. The allocation of these bond funds for the weapons detection systems aligns with the original mandate provided by voters.
Funding Breakdown
- Source 1: Juul Vaping Company Settlement
- Source 2: 2018 Capital Bond for Safety & Security
- Total Cost: Approximately $1.2 million
The Broader Context of School Safety
The move by Salem-Keizer reflects a growing trend among school districts nationwide to adopt more advanced security technologies. As conversations about school safety continue, many districts are exploring solutions that go beyond traditional security guards and cameras.
Chris Baldridge, the Director of Safety and Risk Management Services for the district, has been central to the planning and implementation of these security upgrades. The phased approach, starting with high schools and now moving to middle schools, allowed the district to gather data and refine its processes before the wider rollout.
"Our priority is the safety and well-being of our students and staff. This expansion is a proactive step to create a more secure learning environment across all our secondary schools."
Community and School Response
The initial implementation in high schools provided a test case for how students and staff would adapt to the new technology. The systems are designed for high throughput, meaning they can screen students quickly without causing major delays at school entrances, a key concern for maintaining a normal school day.
The district has worked to communicate the purpose and function of the systems to parents and the community. By emphasizing that the technology is a deterrent and a safety tool, officials hope to foster a sense of security rather than anxiety. The expansion into middle schools will require a similar outreach and education effort to ensure a smooth transition for younger students and their families.
As the systems are installed, the district will continue to evaluate their effectiveness and impact on the school climate. Data on the number of alerts, items confiscated, and overall student feedback will be crucial in assessing the long-term success of the $1.2 million investment in student safety.
