MUSD explores weapon detection systems at high schools

Concerned about the alarming rise of gun violence incidents in schools nationwide, the Maricopa Unified School District is exploring new measures to safeguard its high school students.

During a Governing Board meeting on Wednesday, Assistant Superintendent Tracey Pastor highlighted the potential benefits of installing weapons detection systems at its Maricopa and Desert Sunrise high schools.

She proposed the purchase of the OPENGATE system to enhance the safety and well-being of staff and students.

Standing about four feet tall, each detector weighs about 22 pounds, allowing for easy relocation and quick installation. Each access point comprises a pair of detection pillars.

“We’re sensitive to the ominous nature of the physical appearance of something like this,” Superintendent Dr. Tracey Lopeman said. “We don’t want it to be like TSA at the airport, we wanted it to be like what we experience if we go to a concert or a football game.”

The units are resilient to weather and able to withstand high Arizona temperatures, officials said.

MUSD staff would be able to alter the settings from an app on their phone, choosing between different detection levels, and display of strobe lights or audible alarms when triggered.

Jon Sands, vice president of GXC Inc., a distributor of OPENGATE products, recommended at least two sets at Maricopa High School, based on the current student population.

Each set would cost $17,500 with an additional fee for training.

“I can justify the cost, because a life is priceless,” board member Torri Anderson said.

The units require from 2-3 staff members to guide students and deploy secondary procedures when needed – such as bag searches and metal detector wand scanning.

Although the units can differentiate between everyday electronics and weapons, student Chromebooks are the one exception.

“There isn’t a detection system in the world that will allow laptops,” Sands said.

Staff would collect computers from students to permit a seamless transition.

Sands said OPENGATE can screen 1,700-2,500 people per hour depending on the school’s bag policy. Maricopa High School has nearly 2,100 students, according to its web page.

The board is still in the beginning stages of the conversation and will continue to weigh their options.

“It hurts my heart that we have to look into these things,” board member Patti Coutre said. “I hope we start reaching out for the community input and the student and staff input on this one.”