WPS Expands Weapons Detectors at Handley and Daniel Morgan

 

After the successful implementation of weapons detectors at John Handley High School (JHHS) this year, Winchester Public Schools (WPS) is expanding weapons detectors to JHHS sporting events and the Daniel Morgan campus.

 

Starting December 10, sports spectators at Handley will pass through the school’s non-intrusive weapons detectors at athletics events. The OPENGATE system consists of two gray poles approximately 36 inches apart that allow users to walk through without removing bags. For athletics events, small, purse-type bags will be permitted. Larger bags should remain in vehicles or at home. Spectators are encouraged to arrive early and avoid the list of common items, below, that set off the detectors. 

 

Reed Prosser, Director of Student Activities at Handley, anticipates a seamless transition:

 

“Staff are planning for a smooth and efficient process for entry into athletics events using the weapons detectors. This additional layer of security is an important proactive measure. We look forward to seeing our Judges Nation in big numbers this season!”

 

Daniel Morgan Middle School and Daniel Morgan Intermediate School will also implement weapons detectors beginning in January. Four additional weapons detectors were purchased with funding from the School Safety & Security Grant from the Virginia Department of Education and will be placed at the car loop and bus loop entrances for Daniel Morgan students. Students will remove their Chromebooks from their backpacks to pass through the detectors. 

 

Daniel Morgan staff will review procedures with students before winter break and the weapons detectors will be in operation on January 6 (DMMS) and January 13 (DMIS). Families and students should prepare by reviewing the list of items that set off the detectors, below. 

 

Beth O’Donnell, DMMS Principal, recognizes the importance of this implementation: 

 

“Expanding weapons detectors to Daniel Morgan is necessary, and we are working to ensure our students are ready for this addition to their daily routine. Our colleagues at Handley have given us great guidance and we hope for a seamless integration of this proactive safety measure.”

 

Weapons detectors will also be implemented at Daniel Morgan athletics events in the coming months. 

 

Common Items to Avoid That Set Off WPS Weapons Detectors:

Adult-size scissors

Aerosol cans

Cameras

Chromebooks and other laptops (students will remove Chromebooks from backpacks before entering)

Eyeglass cases

iPads and other tablets  

Metal utensils, such as forks

Three-ring binders larger than 1.5 inches

Umbrellas

Water bottles with metal components

Wheeled, rolling backpacks

Keys and cell phones will not set off alarms. 

Please Note: This is not a comprehensive list of items that may set off the weapons detectors.