BRADENTON, Fla. — A Manatee County Schools security measure has expanded this school year.
One year after introducing weapons detection technology at its high schools, all middle schools are now equipped with the same system.
Like any parent with two kids in school, Kristen Patton knows the first week back is an adjustment period.
“I have a 7-year-old who’s in second grade and a seventh grader, getting ready to be a teenager, so that has been a challenge. It’s been very challenging in school, just with organization,” said Patton.
Part of that includes safety.
This year, Manatee County School District is adding another layer of protection. The Evolv weapons detection system is used every school day in the county’s middle and high schools.
District rules require students to walk through the detection system when they arrive.
The district says it’s quick and can screen ten times faster than a traditional metal detector.
“It’s not the same today as it was when we were kids. They don’t fight the same. And I just feel much better knowing that my kid is going to go to school, and they’re going to check everybody before walking through the door,” said Patton. “These investments reflect our ongoing commitment to layered security and our mission to provide the safest learning environments in the nation.”
Extracurricular activities look different this year, too.
Guardians will now operate the Evolv system at athletic events, concerts, plays, musicals and other large after-school gatherings.
“She’s starting softball this year,” said Patton.
From the start of the school day to the final out on the softball field, Patton values the added safety measures Manatee County has put in place.
The Manatee County School District issued the following statement:
“Thanks to the community’s support of the referendum, we’ve been able to make important security upgrades this school year. One of the most significant additions is the installation of Evolv Weapons Detection Systems in all of our middle schools, which are staffed by two trained guardians at each campus. These systems provide an extra layer of protection for our students and staff every day. In addition, the District is also compensating guardians to operate these systems at athletic events, concerts, plays, musicals, and other large after-school gatherings. While law enforcement remains responsible for overall security at these events, this added layer helps ensure that weapons detection is consistently in place. These investments reflect our ongoing commitment to layered security and our mission to provide the safest learning environments in the nation.”
Julia Hazel
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