A new weapons detection system will be implemented in all elementary schools within the Rome City Schools district this fall. The Opengate Weapons Detection System aims to enhance safety by identifying and deterring the presence of weapons on school campuses.
This initiative is part of a broader approach to school safety, which includes emergency preparedness drills, mental health support, and fostering a positive school climate. Visitors and parents entering schools during the day will undergo screening through this system.
The portable Opengate System will also be used at large after-school events like concerts or family nights and set up at high school sporting events. John Fricks, Director of Instructional Technology, Safety, and Operations, stated: “The safety of our staff and students is a top priority for Rome City Schools, and we know that adding the Opengate System further supports our Keeping Schools Safe Initiative.”
Opengate is already utilized in various venues across the country. It provides a flexible security option as it can be used indoors or outdoors. The system quickly scans individuals for dangerous items as they enter buildings while maintaining foot traffic flow.
Rome City Schools continues to enhance security measures with additional School Resource Officers at Rome High School, random safety patrols, campus perimeter patrols, state-mandated safety drills participation, administration managers at all elementary schools, and other initiatives.
All eight Rome City schools received the Ready Georgia Seal of Preparedness for 2024-2025. This seal indicates compliance with criteria such as emergency operations planning and security technology implementation.
Rome High School and Rome Middle School already use the Evolv Weapons Detection system. The purchase of these systems was made possible through state safety grant funds allocated for this purpose.
