October 13, 2024
Dear Farnsley families,
As you know, the Jefferson County Board of Education voted to install weapon detection systems in all JCPS middle and high schools. This safety-screening technology is an added layer of support for the safety and security of our students and staff.
All JCPS high schools implemented the technology last school year. The district is installing Evolv Express systems in middle schools on a staggered basis over the next several weeks. The installation process includes training for school staff.
To prepare ahead of the use of the system in our school, families are encouraged to help reduce the possibility of “false alerts” on everyday items, while none are prohibited, using these guidelines will ensure a quick entry for everyone:
Select clear and plastic school supplies over covered/concealed and metallic when applicable.
Use three-ring binders with plastic spines/rings (non-metal).
Utilize plastic (versus metallic) BPA-free water/coffee bottles.
Use hard plastic eyeglass cases (versus metal).
Students should “pack-light” and limit the number of items in bags or other equipment.
Keep superfluous metallic items home (game consoles, beauty products, USB drives).
Laptops and umbrellas will be passed around the technology via a staffed table.
Note: Exact school supply lists are communicated individually by schools/teachers.
We anticipate our students, staff, and visitors will begin walking through the devices later this week.
When the systems are installed, people entering the building will walk through an open-air kiosk that uses sensor technology to quickly scan for weapons. The system can identify dangerous items inside bags and pockets. For that reason, you can walk through the sensors without removing concealed belongings or being separated from personal items. Evolv scans as people walk through in real-time, ensuring that your entry to school is not delayed. If an item in your possession alarms the system, the system’s green lights turn to red, and a photo of the person will be shown on a tablet visible to trained staff. The photo will have a red box around the potentially dangerous item. A trained staff member will then search the area indicated in the alert.
While weapon detection systems are another tool for us to maintain safety in our schools, they do not guarantee a weapon will not make it into the building. We must all continue to work together to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our school community.
For more information on the Evolv Express system, visit our website.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact the school office.
Thank you for your continued support of our students and staff.
Sincerely,
Principal Smith,
Farnsley Middle School