Teachers in Maricopa get weapon detection training

Last week, Desert Sunrise and Maricopa High Schools underwent weapon detector system trials at their entrances, orchestrated by Maricopa school officials.

Assistant Superintendent of Administrative Services at Maricopa Unified School District, Tracey Pastor, highlighted the Ceia Opengate systems’ capabilities in detecting firearms, ammunition, and knives. Valued at $17,500 per pair of columns, these systems are accompanied by a comprehensive 10-year warranty.

This initiative marks a significant stride toward fortifying student safety within these campuses, aligning with the district’s overarching commitment to ensure a weapons-free environment across all MUSD schools.

“We’re currently pleased with the progress,” Pastor affirmed. “During the initial implementation week, our primary focus was on refining procedures and addressing logistical aspects.”

Pastor further emphasized the prevalence and effectiveness of the Opengate columns, identifying them as a widely utilized brand of weapons detectors within the United States.

Notably, the column-based system, each weighing 25 pounds, obviates the need for students to undergo bag or backpack inspections.

In preparation for this system’s integration, administrators, security personnel, and student resource officers underwent comprehensive training in the operational protocols. These procedures encompass protocols for students to present items like computers that are not stored in their backpacks for inspection.

Pastor explained that Opengate systems allow students to walk through two 6-foot-high columns with their backpacks strapped to both shoulders so they don’t touch and trigger the device.

Green lights atop the columns turn red if dense metal is detected, Pastor said.

The systems can detect some heavier metal water bottles and metal ring binders, which can trigger a “nuisance alarm,” she said. Smaller metal items such as cell phones and car keys do not touch off the devices.

Pastor said she believes the newly trained high school staffers and officers will now be prepared to use the systems efficiently when classes resume Jan. 2, after winter break.

Students who prompt alarms when they walk through the columns may be asked to step aside and be scanned with a metal-detecting wand, she said.

School district officials have taken other steps to secure campuses, including renovation of the main entrances and offices of Maricopa Elementary School and Maricopa Wells Middle School.

Clear bags are also required at sporting and other events at both high schools.