DeKalb County School District is expanding the installation of a weapons detection security system from schools to sporting events while continuing to enforce a clear bag policy.
Already installed in 41 middle and high schools across the district, DeKalb will deploy the security at five football stadiums, six additional high school programs and centers, and DCSD’s main headquarters in Stone Mountain. The expansion will cost $1.6 million.
During the 2022-2023 school year, 117 weapons were confiscated at DCSD middle schools and high schools. Twenty four of those were guns. During the 2023-2024 school year, there were a total of 66 weapons confiscated, four of which were handguns.
Starting this season, visitors attending home football and basketball games will experience the enhanced safety from Evolv, a weapons detection system widely used in professional sports arenas, concert venues, schools, and other public facilities. Evolv uses sensor technology, artificial intelligence, and venue analytics so visitors can walk through the detectors without stopping.
DCSD Police Chief Tracey Whaley said specialty-trained safety personnel monitor the stations in real time and can quickly identify and address potential threats or concerns.
“The thing that people like most about the EVOLV weapons detection system is that it allows individuals to go through without having to stop, empty their pockets or bags, or wait in long lines,” Whaley said.
The district’s clear bag policy restricts pouches to 4×4 inches, athletes and band members are not allowed to bring uniforms or equipment bags into the stands, and bags brought into stands or corridors are subject to being searched.
Evolve will be installed at Wadsworth Magnet School, DeKalb Early College Academy (DECA), Dunwoody High School, Lakeside High School, Columbia High School, Chamblee High School, DeKalb administrative and industrial complex (AIC), Hallford Stadium, North DeKalb Stadium, Adams Stadium, Avondale Stadium, and Buck Godfrey Stadium.
