Security Screening at Schools
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The safety of staff and students is our number one priority.
Beginning on August 12, 2024, students and visitors at all high school and random middle school campuses will be screened using a high-tech security scanner system. For more information on this enhanced security screening procedure, please review the Frequently Asked Questions.
As a reminder – with the exception of authorized law enforcement and school district security personnel – firearms of any kind are not allowed on School District of Manatee County (SDMC) property per School Board Policy 1217 Weapons. All students and visitors entering School District property may be required to submit to a weapons detector screening to ensure no weapons are brought onto the premises. Bags, purses, backpacks, etc. may also be screened using metal/weapon detecting wands, a firearms detection canine, and/or by hand. Refusal to cooperate with the screening procedure will result in denial of entry (and/or disciplinary action for the student).
Thank you for your cooperation.
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EVOLV Weapons Detection System Video
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Video del sistema de detección de armas EVOLV - Subtítulos en español
Frequently Asked Questions
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Why did SDMC select the Evolv Express system?
SDMC selected the Evolv Express weapons detection system because it was the fastest and most effective at screening individuals while being the least invasive of the systems that were reviewed.
Unlike traditional metal detectors, the Evolv Express system uses advanced sensor technology and artificial intelligence to screen people while they walk through at a natural pace. The technology is quick and can screen ten times faster than traditional metal detectors, reducing long lines and wait times. The system is also portable, and can be easily moved to different locations as needed (like an auditorium or stadium for special events).
The Evolv screening detector is the same system that has scanned more than 350 million people in the U.S. (second only to the Transportation Security Administration/TSA). The technology is used at locations throughout the U.S. including hospitals and schools, theme parks, stadiums, houses of worship, and workplaces.
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Does the School District have the right to search a student and their belongings?
Yes.
School Board Policy 5771 Search and Seizure and Florida statute allow school authorities to search a student and/or the student’s personal effects in the student’s possession (such as purses, wallets, clothing, backpacks, book bags, lunch boxes, etc.) when there are reasonable grounds for suspecting that the search will produce evidence that the student has violated or is violating either the SDMC Code of Student Conduct or state law.
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What do students need to do when they enter the school?
When students enter the school at the designated entry points, they will immediately see the Evolv Express weapons detection system. The students will hand their Chromebook to a staff member and walk through the detector at a normal pace. If no potential threats are detected, a green light will remain on. The staff member will hand the student’s Chromebook back to them, and the student will proceed to class.
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What about students carrying band instruments or other bulky items?
Students will walk through the detector with their band instrument as usual. The system is designed to recognize weapons that may be contained within an instrument case or other bag. The detector can distinguish between a potential weapon and a phone, keys, or other personal items.
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What happens if someone refuses to be screened?
Students who refuse to walk through the scanner for screening or a search may be subject to disciplinary action for defying the valid authority of District staff, consistent with the guidelines as written in the Code of Student Conduct.
Any visitors or others refusing to be screened or searched will be escorted off School District property.
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Will security screenings occur at public events held in the school?
Yes.
Security screenings using the Evolv Express system will take place at random public events such as concerts, plays, football games, etc.
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Does the screening system use facial recognition?
No.
The combination of sensors and artificial intelligence focuses on distinguishing a weapon from personal items. If the Evolv Express system detects a potential threat, it alarms, and the potential threat is examined. If the system does not detect a potential threat, it will not alarm, and the individual will walk right through. The system evaluates the items passing through, not the people.
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Is the screening system safe?
Yes.
The Evolv Express system uses extremely low-frequency radio waves (ELF) and a non-ionizing sensing modality. This complies with the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 2019 guidance for safe operation with the general public. The guidance applies to regular/occupational as well as infrequent exposure. There are minor considerations for people with implanted medical devices and those who may be pregnant.
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What is the procedure for pregnant women and others with health concerns?
Initial testing indicates that the weapons detection screening has low to no risk to pregnant women. If a pregnant woman is not comfortable going through the screening system, they will be directed to a secondary screening location.
In keeping with ADA guidance on Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) and walk-through metal detectors, it is recommended that visitors with implantable or wearable medical devices consult their device manufacturer or physician for information relating to their own specific device.
An alternative screening approach is recommended for anyone who has safety concerns. Please discuss this with staff on site.
