A special-called meeting brought school safety into the forefront Monday afternoon, when officials for Christian County Public Schools unanimously approved the purchase of a Motorola Solutions and ERS Wireless Concealed Weapons Detection system at the cost of $809,609.80 — a mobile system that will eventually be utilized at Christian County High School, Hopkinsville High School, the Bluegrass Academy, and potentially at large gatherings like graduations and sporting events.
The decision comes not only after a summer 2021 discussion with officials and a spring 2021 incident, but after two reports last week of weapons on school grounds that were both investigated by police.
A tip line and random wanding will also remain in effect, and continue following these units — which will eventually be moved into the consolidated high school and other necessary entrances.
Traditional metal detectors were on the consideration list over the last two years, but officials Monday noted the mass congestion of students at campus entrances could be considered “soft targets” for active shooters, and would create even more problems if inclement weather arrived with students lined up out of doors.
Assistant Superintendent Josh Hunt called the technology “user friendly” and “something they could do” in their schools, in order to take that next safety step.
The idea of the perfect system really took shape in March 2022, when District Technology Coordinator Jason Wilson saw the Motorola/ERS in action at a state convention in Louisville.
Wilson noted that it uses radio frequencies and artificial intelligence to determine the difference between certain inanimate objects and lethal implements.
Grant Doyle, with ERS, said the district and its officials would be able to control how sensitive the machines could be.
Board member Lindsey Clark noted the district, in the last decade, has spent more than $4 million on school resource officers for it’s schools — money he said that could’ve gone to other things.
However, he said as long as he’s on the board, “it’s safety first.”
And everyone agreed, with Board Chair Tom Bell sending a clear district message.
Full audio of the convening:
