UPDATE (JAN. 6):
Taylor County High School shared guidelines for students and visitors after activating metal detectors on their campus Tuesday.
The school said the first day went well but admitted they were "working through some kinks" in the process.
They say to make the detection process move forward smoothly students should:
- Bring only the essentials needed for school. Any items you can do without should be left at home.
- Return from lunch using the north gate entrance, not the front entrance.
- Continue carrying cell phones, keys, and headphones as normal.
Students approaching the metal detectors should:
- Remove their laptop and binders from their backpack/laptop bag.
- Position their backpack on their front side.
- Place their binder and laptop on the designated table.
- Walk through the metal detector individually.
- Collect their belongings and proceed to the next table after passing through the detector.
The school adds, "If the metal detector sounds an alert as you pass through, please move aside as directed and wait for staff approval to enter campus."
EARLIER:
Students and visitors at Taylor County High School will have to pass through a metal detector before going on campus starting Tuesday.
District administration announced the change on social media back in November as part of efforts to "maintain a secure environment." That announcement also said Taylor County Middle School would also get the detectors.
The district called the initiative "an additional layer of protection" and prevent unsafe items from entering the buildings. The district added the change was "not a reflection of distrust."
School board members in Leon County have considered similar detection methods in recent months.
Back in November, we told you how the district was using an AI software in their security cameras to detect weapons on school campuses.
Leon County was also picked for a state drone pilot program, designed to detect weapons and prevent potential school shootings.
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