Photo: Getty Images
Starting today (January 6), Schenectady High School is implementing new safety measures, including metal detectors and bag scanners, to enhance student safety. These measures follow a series of incidents last fall, including a stabbing and multiple fights, which prompted the district to act. The school board approved the acquisition of weapons-detection systems in September, and the new security system is part of a larger effort to address school safety concerns.
The new system uses advanced sensors and artificial intelligence to scan for weapons and other prohibited items. Students will pass through a body scanner and have their bags scanned upon entering the school. The system quickly identifies items that shouldn't be in the school, such as knives and vapes. Jeffrey Russo, Director of School Climate and Safety, emphasized that this is not just about technology but also about understanding and addressing the reasons behind students' choices.
Superintendent Carlos Cotto Jr. stated that the district's goal is to implement the system in middle schools by February. The district received a $500,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Justice to fund the technology, with the total cost being over $600,000. The district will cover approximately $55,000 annually to maintain the system.
According to the Daily Gazette, the district conducted community surveys, revealing that 72 percent of respondents believed a security screening system would be effective. The district also held a safety fair in October to showcase various security systems to the community.