Oklahoma Schools Implement Weapons Detection Systems

The shooting at the Choctaw vs. Del City football game has districts across the state rethinking their security protocols.

Other districts like Putnam City Public Schools say they won't be implementing many new rules, but see this as an opportunity to remind folks what's already in place.

“All of the high schools and middle schools have our weapons detection systems and they are portable,” said PCPS spokesman, AJ Graffeo.

This season they will be transported to the gates of each district stadium.

“People can walk easily through,” he said.

The security units were introduced to the district in January. Graffeo says they’re devices with which students and their families should already be familiar.

“It will be very seamless at football games for the community to have just that peace of mind,” he said.

It’s also meant to give them peace in line. They hope the detectors cut down on wait times.

Unlike typical metal detectors, those who pass through will not have to empty pockets.

They scan for mass, density and shape of the metals. Phones, keys and wallets won’t set it off. Knives, guns or other weapons will.

The detectors will be at the gates, along with administrators from both schools. Administrators will make sure the high school students getting in go to the schools that are playing.

“Any high school aged student will be verified that they are even allowed into the game,” said Graffeo.

All elementary and middle school aged students must be accompanied by an adult.

OKCPS is implementing similar rules and similar technology.

The district said in a press conference Tuesday it’s slowly been rolling out weapon detectors already.

“The only thing that changed on Friday was making sure they were in stadiums by Friday night,” said Wayland Cubit, OKCPS Director of Security.

At nearly $20,000 per unit, the security system isn’t cheap.

“We thought it was worth the investment,” says Cubit.

It’s a sentiment shared by Putman City. The district currently has 52 units.

Edmond Public Schools, meanwhile, says procedures for high school football games will be released after Labor Day. There are no district home games until the Friday after.

EPS did send out rules for middle school games with the following key points:

1. Wear ID & Lanyard: All students attending the game are now required to wear their ID and lanyard. This will help us easily identify members of our school community and enhance security.

2. Cheering Section Etiquette: We encourage enthusiastic participation in cheering for our team. To ensure safety and order, remain in the designated cheering areas. This will contribute to an organized and spirited event.

3. Elementary Students: For families attending with elementary school students, students should remain with their parent/guardian throughout the event. This measure is in place to ensure their safety and enjoyment.