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JCPS votes to move forward with weapons detection systems safety plan

First presented on April 25, Superintendent Dr. Marty Pollio's plan uses artificial intelligence to find concealed threats like firearms and explosive devices.

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — After weeks of planning and researching, the Jefferson County Board of Education voted to move forward with the superintendent's weapon detection system plan.

First presented on April 25, Superintendent Dr. Marty Pollio's plan uses artificial intelligence to find concealed threats like firearms and explosive devices.

Tuesday night's vote means they want to move forward to the next step, which is to get bids from vendors that could implement the proposed weapons detection system.

The system is designed to scan about 1,800 people per hour, and it is supposed to be "objective."

When considering staffing, Pollio said there are two possible options:

  • The first option would require a request for a proposal for contracting services.
  • The second option would make building-level staff responsible for all aspects of implementation, and the principal would have the flexibility to adjust morning and afternoon duties.

Additionally, while an armed officer will be required during check-ins, a minimum of one school staff person is required at each lane.

The proposed systems will be implemented in schools in four different phases.

Some of the specialized schools like Breckinridge Metropolitan, Minor Daniels, Binet and Pathfinder campuses "require some special considerations" and will be implemented when those plans are finalized.

Different screening options will also be available for students with medical implants/devices or disabilities according to JCPS.

However, there were mixed feelings from some educators and community leaders as JCPS heard community members' thoughts.

Felicia Nu'Man, director of policy at Louisville Urban League, said, they "want to know the data on how many guns are coming in school, we need to know more before we just jump right to a vote."

Deputy Mayor David James urged the board to vote yes to the detection system.

"I'm here asking you to help protect children, it's not a solution it's not perfect, but we need to try to work together to get to perfect," he said.

Board members also said the school system needs to address its policies for students caught with guns instead of them being criminalized.

"Perhaps we need to seek the partnership of lawmakers who will help us meet the needs of young people who fundamentally don't feel safe in this community," Dr. Corrie Shull said.

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