South Bend Community Schools approves weapon detectors in schools

SOUTH BEND, Ind. - South Bend Community School Corporation, in a vote last night, approved 10 new Open Gate weapon detectors to be placed in schools by the end of the school year. 

Following recent activity of weapons being brought onto school grounds, a knife at Penn-Harris Madson's Grisson Middle School or a possible gun in a Michigan City High School bathroom, SBCSC is taking steps to ensure student safety. 

For parents, the threat of potential weapons in schools adds a layer of concern when deciding on their child's place of education. 

Sarah Turnboll, whose son will be starting kindergarten next fall, says the news gives her a sense of relief," she said. "Although it's sad that it's something that needs to be discussed. 

"Not only do we have to think, 'which school is best for him education wise,' we have to think, 'which school is best for him safety wise,' and that shouldn’t even be a thing."

Students, faculty and staff will need to pass through weapon detectors, which depending on the sensitivity they're set on, can detect vapes and weapons, such as knifes, guns and bombs.

The $189,000 investment is part of SBCSC's larger plan to ensure all students safety.

SBCSC's Safety and Emergency Preparedness Director, Eric Crittendon, said the system is "not a prevent all, but it will help detour and catch things we don’t want in our buildings or schools."

Crittendon is currently learning more about the technology and will provide trainings to individuals who will run the weapon detectors and will monitor them.