Photo: Getty Images
Schenectady High School is set to introduce new security measures with the installation of a weapon detection system and bag scanners on January 2 and 3. The Schenectady City School District aims to enhance safety for students, staff, and visitors with these new technologies.
The system will undergo a "soft implementation" on January 6 and 7, allowing students to familiarize themselves with the process. During this period, students will practice walking through the scanners and placing their belongings on the bag scanners. Full implementation is scheduled for January 8, when all students will be required to pass through the system daily.
Items such as cell phones, Chromebooks, and binders will be permitted, but prohibited items like drugs, guns, knives, and vape pens will trigger alerts. Students will have the opportunity to discard unapproved items in a designated box before entering the school. Any unauthorized items detected during the screening will be considered a violation of the school's Code of Character, Conduct, and Support.
The school district has invested $618,000 in the detection system, which will be paid over three years. As part of the new security protocol, students must also carry their school ID at all times. Those without an ID will need to obtain one before entering the building.
For more information, parents and students can view video clips explaining the system, which will be shared after the holiday break. The school encourages families to ensure their contact information is up-to-date to receive all communications.
More details on the implementation process are available from the Schenectady City School District.