Metal Detectors in Schools, Part 2

 

Some of my files on metal detectors in schools...

I was asked, after my previous post on metal detectors in schools, if I could condense my post into a shorter post with the points summed up. I do have a streamlined, 10-point piece that will be in my book (this is not the finished version) that I will post here. Remember, I am not for or against metal detectors--there is much to consider before going that route. There have been schools that installed metal detectors before realizing what a disruption it was, every day, and to keep enough trained people manning the detectors. Informed decisions, with feedback from the students, parents, and staff, should take place. We should remember, too, that there is already a lot of metal inside of schools that could be turned into a weapon--chair legs, desks, and so on. Metal detectors won't detect glass, or drugs like Fentanyl that are making their way into more and more schools. Metal detectors won't deter sexual assaults or brawls. So, here is my piece.

Ten things to consider before installing metal detectors:

1. If using metal detectors in schools with first floor windows, it may be required for windows to be permanently sealed--otherwise, a gun can be (and has been) passed to someone inside the school. Sealing off windows could be a fire hazard in the event of fire and people need to use the windows to evacuate. Ask the metal detection company about this requirement and whatever other permanent fixes would need to take place. Check with the local Fire Marshal to see if it would be a Code violation.

2. Weapons can be brought into the school during times a school is in use for PTA, back to school night, sports events, etc., and can be hidden for use later when school is in session. People are in and out of schools all the time; some students leave for lunch, appointments, and various other reasons, and then return. Custodians, teachers, admin, delivery people are also in and out of schools. Would there be personnel available all day to put them through the detectors?

3. It takes 3-5 trained people to man the detectors--will this many people be available?

4. Those manning the detectors will be in harm's way--in at least one school shooting, the security guard and a teacher at the detectors were the first to be killed.

5. Students have been known to go through the detectors and then go prop or hold open doors for armed students to enter.

6. More school shootings are happening outdoors--during lunch, arrival, and dismissal. Guns have been passed to students through fences. Some students have hidden weapons outdoors on school property to retrieve later.

7. Will the school install and use the detectors as required by the manufacturer, and the local fire codes? Improper use and installation can void the warranty--the company couldn't be sued if a weapon gets through and a tragedy occurs if the proper procedures were not adhered to. Will they be used every day or once in a while? Will enough trained personnel be available for screenings?

8. Students lined up to go through the detectors would not only take a lot more time (arriving at school earlier would cause those who already catch their bus at 6:30 in the morning to have to be at bus stops even earlier, and bus drivers to have to start earlier). In schools with 2000+ students, this will take a lot of time.

9. If metal detectors are mandated (as one Virginia lawmaker wants to do), who will pay for the detectors, sealing first floor windows, and the persons to man the detectors? 

10. Lining students up to go through the detectors would make them  sitting ducks for the rampage shooter who is interested in a high body count--with hundreds/thousands of students in one place, a shooter could kill an untold numbers of students.

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