Pembroke Pines, Florida – Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) is set to introduce walk-through metal detectors at two of its high schools this summer as part of a broader initiative to enhance campus safety. The pilot program, aimed at preventing weapons on school premises, will commence at Charles W. Flanagan High School in Pembroke Pines and J.P. Taravella High School in Coral Springs.
Enhancing School Safety
The decision to implement metal detectors follows the Broward County School Board’s recent approval and comes amid increasing concerns over school safety nationwide. The pilot program will serve as a test phase, allowing security personnel to fine-tune the process of weapons detection before the program is expanded to eight additional schools.
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According to BCPS Superintendent Dr. Peter B. Licata, “The integration of walk-through metal detectors is an important step forward for our District. Safety is our top priority, and we are doing everything we can to keep weapons off our campuses. This initiative adds another layer to the safety measures currently in place.”
The program is part of a broader strategy to secure school environments against potential threats. The implementation of the program at the ten schools will cost approximately $540,000.
Future Expansion Plans
During a School Board workshop scheduled for April 23, further discussions will take place regarding the expansion of the metal detector program. The plan is to include eight additional schools in the 2024/25 school year and to extend the safety measures to all remaining BCPS high schools by the 2025/26 academic year.
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This proactive approach by the Broward County School Board illustrates a committed effort to ensure the safety of its students and staff by integrating advanced security technologies into its schools. The move is expected to set a precedent for other districts focusing on enhancing school safety protocols.
