Nash County Public Schools to Begin Random Safety Screenings in Elementary Schools
NASHVILLE, N.C. — Starting Sept. 9, 2024, Nash County Public Schools (NCPS) will implement random wanding and metal detector screenings at all elementary schools. Each week, 10% of students at each school will be randomly selected for these safety checks as part of the district’s ongoing commitment to security.
This initiative follows a 2022 district-wide survey that included input from students, guardians, and staff. Based on the feedback, NCPS introduced random screenings in middle and high schools during the 2023-2024 school year and installed Evolv weapon detectors in those schools. The positive results have led to the expansion of these measures to elementary schools.
"We take school safety very seriously, and this measure is a proactive step to protect our NCPS Community. Due to the confidential nature of security plans, specific details about the screenings cannot be disclosed. However, parents and guardians can be assured that the process is handled with the utmost care and discretion," said an NCPS representative.
Random Selection: Each week, 10% of the school’s student population will be randomly selected for wanding or metal detector screenings, including students who ride buses, are dropped off by car, or walk to school.
Documentation: Schools will record each screening session, including the date, number of students screened, and any contraband or weapons found.
Confidentiality: To ensure student privacy, staff will handle any findings discreetly. FERPA concerns arise only if staff disclose the results of the screenings.
While Evolv weapon detectors in middle and high schools were funded by ESSER at a cost of approximately $1.7 million, NCPS is exploring cost-effective solutions to implement similar security measures in elementary schools.
The safety of students and staff remains the district’s top priority. NCPS is dedicated to maintaining a secure learning environment for all students.
###
Media Contact:
Heather Louise Finch, Public Information Officer