Metal Detectors
To further enhance our security, Pine-Richland has implemented the portable OpenGate metal detector system, an advanced technology that allows us to screen individuals for prohibited items in a way that is designed to be quick and non-intrusive, minimizing disruption to the school day or event while significantly improving our ability to maintain a safe environment.
Although not planned for daily use, building and district administrators will collaborate with the safety committee to determine when and where the units will be deployed, consistent with applicable board policy, in order to further enhance our existing security measures.
While our safety and security protocols are designed to keep the students and community safe, we recognize that individuals will respond differently and feel differently to these measures. In cases where families need support talking with their child about violence, we recommend the following resources: Talking to
Student Reminders
- When students enter the building through the OpenGate system, they will be asked to remove their laptops/Chromebooks from their backpacks. Tables will be set up to provide space for students to do this comfortably.
- Items such as three-ring binders or eyeglass cases may alert the metal detectors. Students may remove them with their laptops/Chromebooks.
- Students do not need to remove water bottles, phones, shoes, belts, keys or other items from their bags or pockets.
- Students must wear both straps of their backpacks on their shoulders to avoid making physical contact with the metal detector pillars.
- Students will hand their laptop or Chromebook to the staff member standing next to the metal detector.
- Students should walk through the pillars without stopping, then collect their laptop or Chromebook.
- If the metal detector alerts, the student will be directed to a staff member for additional screening.
- Tables will be set up for students to use to comfortably repack their belongings before heading to class.