Kalamazoo, Mich. — In a bid to enhance security, Kalamazoo Public Schools (KPS) has announced the installation of weapon detection systems at all middle and high school entrances, set to begin in the fall. The move follows a unanimous vote by the KPS Board of Education during a meeting on Wednesday night.
Superintendent Darrin Slade highlighted the increasing frequency of school shootings across the country, pointing to recent incidents in Florida and Texas. “There is a school shooting or a shooting in a school or university at least once a week,” Slade said. “The goal is to add an additional layer of security to make sure our students are as safe as possible.”
The decision to implement the OPENGATE weapon detection system comes after a year of discussions with teachers, parents, and students. According to Slade, feedback from these groups has been overwhelmingly supportive, with many acknowledging the need for better safety measures following a gun confiscation incident at Kalamazoo Central High School last year.
Trustee Karla Murphy, though initially hesitant, voiced her approval of the system. She compared it to previous experiences with other types of detectors, which often required individuals to remove items such as shoes, belts, and jewelry. However, Murphy reassured the public that the OPENGATE system is less invasive and can be adjusted to avoid lengthy or cumbersome procedures.
The district has already been using 11 OPENGATE units at sporting events since November and reports positive results. Slade noted that the system is commonly used in other districts, including Comstock Public Schools and Lansing Public Schools, particularly at public events. While the district anticipates no additional costs for the installation, given that the schools are already equipped with the necessary infrastructure, there are concerns about how the new security measures will affect daily routines.
Some parents expressed their support for the initiative but raised concerns about the potential for long lines at the entrances and the safety of students who congregate outside before entering the school. To address these concerns, the district plans to conduct a trial run at one of its buildings before the full implementation in the fall. A trainer from CEIA USA, the company behind the OPENGATE system, suggested that clear communication between the district, parents, and students will be essential to ensure a smooth transition and maintain safety during the process.
As the fall semester approaches, the district remains committed to prioritizing student safety while balancing convenience and efficiency. The weapon detection systems will serve as one part of a broader strategy to protect students, staff, and visitors at Kalamazoo’s middle and high schools.
